Tuga Pops − Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 6 Months ago in Pasta Recipes
5 out of 5 with 3 ratings

20-Minute Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti with Buttery Garlic Sauce

Make garlic shrimp spaghetti ultra creamy and ready fast. Perfect weeknight comfort food. Try this garlic shrimp spaghetti today.
20 min 4 servings Easy Prep time 5 min Cooking Time 15 min

You will love this 20-Minute Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti with Buttery Garlic Sauce

Garlic shrimp spaghetti is a cozy, weeknight pasta where juicy shrimp are tossed with long strands of spaghetti in a buttery garlic sauce, meant for twirling and sharing straight from the pan. Ready in about 20 min and easy to make, it's comforting yet lightdig in.


Ingredients

300 g peeled shrimp (about 10½ oz)250 g spaghetti (about 9 oz or ½ lb)3 garlic cloves, finely chopped200 ml heavy cream (about ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon)50 g grated Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup, finely grated)2 tablespoons butterSalt, black pepper, parsley, to taste

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. 
  3. Add the garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant (do not brown).
  4. Add the shrimp and cook until fully cooked and pink, about 2–3 minutes per side.
  5. Pour in the cream, add the Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper. 
  6. Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, toss well to coat, and serve immediately.
  8. Finish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

Chef's Tips & Variations

  • Avoid overcooking the shrimp: Cook the shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, ruining the texture of your dish.
  • For a richer flavor, sauté the garlic in the butter before adding the shrimp. This will infuse the oil with garlic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce while preventing the garlic from burning.
  • When adding the heavy cream, make sure to lower the heat to medium or medium-low to avoid curdling. Stir continuously until the cream is fully incorporated before adding the Parmesan cheese for a smooth, creamy sauce.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Arquivo das Melhores Receitas

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
584 kcal
Fat
28 g
Carbs
50 g
Protein
32 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta types such as fettuccine, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that this may alter the richness and texture of the sauce.

How should I store leftovers of the garlic shrimp spaghetti?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to warm gently, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and crisp white wine complements the garlic and shrimp beautifully, enhancing the dish's freshness.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - The zesty acidity and herbal notes of Sauvignon Blanc pair well with the buttery garlic sauce and seafood flavors.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This pale lager offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the creamy sauce and complements the shrimp.

General: Pilsner - A crisp and clean pilsner enhances the dish without overpowering it, making it a great match for seafood pasta.

Other Beverages

Sparkling Water: The bubbles in sparkling water can cleanse the palate between bites, complementing the rich flavors of the dish.

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Tuga Pops

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