Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: International Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta for dinner. It’s a quick dish that brings together the richness of cream and the brightness of lemon, making it a perfect evening treat. The shrimp cook up tender and juicy, while the pasta absorbs that luscious sauce. This meal feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up on a weeknight. Plus, it fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma that leaves everyone eagerly waiting at the table.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:33:36.007Z

I first stumbled upon this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe during a dinner party where I wanted to impress my friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of lemon and cream not only elevates the dish but also balances the richness beautifully. Surprisingly, adding a touch of pasta water to the sauce gives it that silky texture we all adore.

Since then, I've made this dish countless times, always tweaking it to suit my mood. Sometimes I add a little spice with red pepper flakes, or toss in some spinach for extra color and nutrition. Each variation has turned out delightful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A zesty lemon flavor that brightens the palate
Creamy texture that complements perfectly cooked shrimp
Quick and easy enough for any weeknight dinner

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh shrimp is key to achieving the best texture and flavor in this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta. I recommend purchasing shrimp that are wild-caught and locally sourced if possible. Frozen shrimp can be a convenient alternative, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight for optimal results. Checking for a firm texture and a mild, salty smell will indicate freshness, ensuring that your dish is packed with natural sweetness.

In terms of pasta, while fettuccine or linguine are traditional choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties like spaghetti or even whole grain pasta for a healthier spin. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the shape you choose, so keep an eye on the pot to avoid overcooking. Remember to reserve that pasta water; it’s liquid gold for adjusting your sauce's texture!

Perfecting the Sauce

The heavy cream is essential for creating a rich and velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you could swap half of the cream for a mixture of Greek yogurt and water, which will give you a tangy flavor while maintaining creaminess. Just be careful not to boil the cream too vigorously, as this can cause it to separate.

Lemon plays a crucial role in brightening the dish, and using both zest and juice captures the fruit’s complex flavor profile. For an extra layer of taste, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will add a hint of heat that nicely contrasts with the creamy sauce without overpowering the lemon's brightness.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low, add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet with shrimp. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve with chopped parsley on top.

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try incorporating red pepper flakes when making the sauce. Also, if you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re pressed for time during the week, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just cook the shrimp and sauce as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove over low heat while the pasta cooks. If the sauce thickens too much, incorporate a splash of reserved pasta water to restore its creamy consistency.

Additionally, you can cook the pasta ahead of time, but toss it lightly in olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta in boiling water for a minute. This ensures that every bite is delicious and prevents the dish from becoming dry.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta, consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. This will add a peppery freshness that complements the richness of the pasta. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving can enhance the flavor profile tremendously.

If you want to make this dish even more festive, serve it with crusty garlic bread. Not only does this allow everyone to soak up that luscious sauce, but the crunchy texture provides a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the pasta. A glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, would also pair beautifully with the zesty lemon flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or linguine are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it when you're ready to add the pasta and shrimp.

→ What can I serve this with?

It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread!