This Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine (with Garlic) is one of my favourite seafood dishes — rich, quick, and full of flavour. If you love shrimp, this simple yet impressive pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. It’s easy to prepare and comes together in about 20 minutes, making it a great go-to for busy evenings or when you want something delicious without fuss.
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This creamy shrimp linguine is versatile and enjoyed year-round, though it’s especially popular for summer dinners and festive occasions like Valentine’s Day or holiday meals. The combination of garlic, tomato, cream and bright parsley gives the dish a luxurious yet approachable flavour profile that guests love.
This recipe was inspired by other pasta dishes on the site and borrows the same comforting, creamy elements that make those recipes crowd-pleasers.
Ingredients for this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic)
- Large Argentinian shrimp (peeled and dried)
- Fresh lemon (juice)
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Tomato sauce
- Heavy cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Linguine pasta
- Salt and black pepper
- Reserved pasta water
- Seasonings: garlic powder, red paprika, smoked paprika, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (optional)
- Parmesan cheese and fresh basil (optional)
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions for my Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic)
Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side.
Pour in the tomato sauce and heavy cream, then stir to combine.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and let the sauce simmer briefly.
Toss with linguine and serve immediately.
1. In a bowl, mix the peeled, dried shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, red paprika, smoked paprika and dried oregano. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Add the tomato sauce and heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Return the shrimp to the skillet and simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes so the flavours meld. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
5. While the sauce simmers, cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated. Finish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan or fresh basil if you like. Serve hot.
Substitutions
Shrimp: Any large shrimp, tiger shrimp or prawns work well.
Butter: Use salted butter, garlic butter or a non-dairy alternative if needed.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder or paste can be used in a pinch.
Tomato sauce: Canned diced tomatoes or tomato puree can be used—season to taste.
Heavy cream: Substitute coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Pasta: Swaps like spaghetti, fettuccine or penne are all fine depending on preference.
Equipment for this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic)
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Strainer
- Cheese grater or zester (for Parmesan)
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. For best texture, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or cream, stirring until warmed through.
3 Top Tips for Success!
1. Season the shrimp well so each bite is flavorful — a little lemon zest brightens the dish.
2. Simmer the sauce just long enough to blend flavours; avoid overcooking the shrimp.
3. Cook the pasta al dente so it holds up when tossed with the sauce and shrimp.
FAQ’s
Shrimp linguine is typically prepared with shrimp, linguine, garlic, tomato sauce, cream, and seasoning, finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan.
Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A crisp white wine also complements the creamy sauce.
Calories vary, but a typical serving ranges roughly between 300 and 500 calories depending on portion size and ingredients.
Peel and pat shrimp dry, then toss with olive oil, lemon juice and the spice mix. Let sit briefly while you prepare the other ingredients.
Related
If you enjoy this creamy shrimp linguine, you may also like other pasta recipes that combine rich sauces with simple ingredients.
-
The Best Street Corn Pasta Salad with Chicken
-
Creamy White Bolognese Sauce (with Rigatoni)
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Ramen (Easy 20-Minute Recipe)
-
Fantastic Lemon Basil Pasta with Chicken
Pairing
Finish the meal with a light dessert — fruit-based or a simple cookie — to balance the richness of the pasta. Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon brighten the final plate and pair nicely with a chilled white wine.
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Salted Brown Butter Maple Syrup
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No-Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
-
Viral Dot Cakes (Dessert)
-
Ultimate Red Velvet Cookies (with Chocolate Chip)
Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe (with Garlic)
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Food safety
- Cook seafood until it reaches a safe internal temperature and is opaque and firm.
- Use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw seafood and ready-to-eat food.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw shrimp.
- Do not leave perishable food at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking unattended.
- Use oils with a suitable smoke point when cooking at higher temperatures.
- Ensure good ventilation when using gas stoves or other high-heat cooking methods.
Follow your local food safety guidance for additional recommendations.