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: 12 ounces linguine or spaghetti; Salt (for pasta water); 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta whenever I want a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. The freshness of the lemon zest combined with the creamy sauce creates a delightful balance that tantalizes the taste buds. As I stir in the succulent shrimp, I’m always reminded of how this dish elevates any weeknight dinner into something special. It’s a go-to recipe that never fails to impress my family and friends, delivering comfort and elegance on a plate.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:53:35.607Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was captivated by how simple ingredients could create such a rich and satisfying dish. Using fresh lemon juice not only brightens the pasta but also enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. I found that cooking the pasta al dente before finishing it in the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors beautifully.

Another tip I've discovered is to reserve some pasta water when draining the noodles. Adding this starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce, giving it a silky texture that clings to the pasta perfectly. The result? A creamy lemon shrimp pasta that dreams are made of!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The bright citrus flavor adds a refreshing twist to the creamy richness.
Succulent shrimp paired with tender pasta creates a satisfying meal.
Easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for entertaining.

A Closer Look at the Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. I recommend using large shrimp, as they provide a satisfying bite and hold up well during cooking. When shopping, look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a slight ocean scent. If fresh shrimp aren't available, frozen shrimp will work just fine; just be sure to thaw them adequately beforehand for even cooking. Defrosting can be done easily by placing them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring they cook uniformly in the skillet.

Once you have your shrimp, the cooking time is key. Sauté them over medium heat and watch closely; they should turn opaque and pink. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes, but overcooking can lead to rubbery texture. The perfect shrimp will curl slightly and have a juicy center. To elevate the dish further, consider marinating the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for 15-30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavor profile.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The cream sauce is what makes this dish truly indulgent. Heavy cream is essential here; its fat content creates a luxurious body that clings beautifully to the pasta and shrimp. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half can substitute, but keep in mind that the sauce won't be as rich. Stirring in the grated Parmesan not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the sauce as it melts, creating a velvety finish. I find that freshly grated Parmesan works best, as it melts more readily than pre-grated varieties.

Adjusting the sauce's consistency is important to achieving that perfect coating. If you find the sauce too thick, gradually incorporate the reserved pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help bind the sauce to the pasta while also enhancing flavor. Start with a few tablespoons and increase until you reach your desired creaminess. And don't forget to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as this can make a significant difference to the overall taste.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

For serving, I recommend garnishing with fresh chopped parsley, which adds a pop of color and brightens the flavors. Serving this dish right away is the best option, as it’s at its creamiest and freshest. Pair the pasta with a simple green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal that impresses without overwhelming work.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating can be done in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore the sauce's creamy texture. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream can separate and change the dish's texture upon thawing. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta even after the initial serving!

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces linguine or spaghetti
Salt (for pasta water)

For the Sauce

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.

Sauté 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. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to coat. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve

Plate the creamy lemon shrimp pasta and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, try adding red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also swap the shrimp for chicken or vegetables if preferred.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to customize this dish, consider adding vegetables like spinach or asparagus for a boost of color and nutrition. Sauté them briefly with the shrimp to allow them to soften while still retaining some bite. You can also swap out the shrimp for chicken or tofu for different protein options. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; chicken will take longer than shrimp.

For a bit of spice, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed shrimp. This will give the dish an extra kick without overpowering the lemony goodness. Alternatively, using flavored pasta such as spinach or whole wheat linguine can also enhance the nutritional profile while introducing new flavors.

Ingredient Tips

When it comes to lemon zest, fresh zest is a game-changer. A microplane grater is perfect for this task, releasing the aromatic oils that pack a flavor punch. Avoid zesting the white pith beneath the skin, as it can impart a bitter taste. If you don't have fresh lemons, a high-quality bottled lemon juice can suffice, but the flavor won't be as vibrant.

Regarding pasta, linguine and spaghetti are great choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can substitute, though you may need to adjust the cooking time. Always check package instructions to achieve the desired al dente texture, ensuring each strand can hold its own against the creamy sauce and shrimp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply replace the pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can this recipe be made in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently before adding the pasta.