Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine

Category: Sophisticated Dinners Ready in 45 Minutes or Less

This dish features succulent Argentinian shrimp seared with spices, then gently simmered in a velvety sauce of tomato and heavy cream. Minced garlic and a medley of paprika lend warmth and depth, while fresh parsley and optional basil bring brightness to each bite. Linguine pasta is cooked al dente and tossed with the creamy shrimp sauce for perfect coating. A touch of parmesan adds richness. Ready in minutes, this meal balances satisfying textures and bold flavors, making it a go-to option for busy evenings or special gatherings with friends and family.

A woman in a white chef's coat smiles for the camera.
Created By Mia Laurent
Updated on Fri, 23 May 2025 22:42:04 GMT
A bowl of shrimp and pasta. Pin
A bowl of shrimp and pasta. | chefmiarecipes.com

This creamy shrimp linguine is the answer to comfort food cravings and quick weeknight dinners alike The luscious garlic sauce hugs every strand of pasta while plump Argentinian shrimp make each bite feel luxurious yet it all comes together in under 30 minutes

I first tried this on a rushed evening and was amazed how restaurant worthy it tasted My family always asks for seconds especially on chilly nights

Ingredients

  • Large Argentinian Shrimp: brings sweet briny flavor and impressive texture choose wild caught if possible for best taste
  • Unsalted Butter: creates a silky base and helps balance the garlic and tomato flavors use creamy farm style butter if available
  • Garlic: both fresh and in powder for deep savory notes try to pick firm unblemished cloves
  • Tomato Sauce: gives brightness and balances the richness go for a low sugar version for best results
  • Heavy Cream: makes everything lush and comforting look for one with no additives
  • Fresh Parsley: brightens the whole dish with freshness pick leaves that are vibrant and not wilted
  • Linguine Pasta: perfect for saucy dishes holds creamy sauce well made with durum wheat for best bite
  • Salt and Pepper to taste: enhances all the flavors use flaky salt and cracked pepper if you can
  • Parmesan grated (optional): adds more umami choose a block and grate it for maximum flavor
  • Fresh Basil (optional): offers a herbal lift look for deep green leaves
  • Garlic Powder Red Paprika Powder Smoked Paprika Powder Dried Oregano: provide layers of warmth spice earthiness and aroma use fresh ground spices for maximum impact
  • Olive Oil: adds richness and helps the marinade emulsify choose extra virgin for fruity note
  • Lemon Juice: brings brightness and balance use freshly squeezed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate and prep shrimp:
Combine peeled dried shrimp in a bowl with olive oil lemon juice garlic powder both paprikas and oregano Toss thoroughly so every shrimp is glossy with seasoning Let it sit while prepping other ingredients to infuse flavor
Sear the shrimp:
Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium high Once hot spread shrimp in an even layer Cook briefly just two minutes per side until a deep blush appears and they become opaque Lift each one out with tongs onto a plate This locks in juiciness and avoids rubbery shrimp
Make garlic butter base:
Into the same skillet melt butter Add minced garlic Stir continuously over medium low so garlic foams and turns light golden This stage builds the savory backbone of the dish
Build the sauce:
Pour in tomato sauce swishing it to coat any browned bits off the bottom Add heavy cream Whisk to combine and lower heat to a gentle simmer Return cooked shrimp and let everything bubble softly for ten minutes letting flavors blend Season with salt and pepper
Cook pasta and finish:
Meanwhile boil a big pot of salted water Add linguine Cook until just al dente scoop out half a cup of the starchy water then drain Toss drained pasta right into the simmering shrimp sauce Add pasta water to help coat every strand
Serve it up:
Gently toss pasta and shrimp until each noodle glistens Divide among plates then shower with parsley and if desired parmesan or basil Serve steaming bowls straight from the pan
A plate of shrimp and pasta. Pin
A plate of shrimp and pasta. | chefmiarecipes.com

My all time favorite part is how the smoked paprika gives that subtle warmth and depth My nieces always ask for extra sauce and fight over the leftovers This one always brings my family around the kitchen island

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep best in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days When reheating add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess This dish does not freeze well since cream sauces can separate

Ingredient Substitutions

No linguine Use fettuccine spaghetti or even penne For dairy free use coconut cream Though Argentinian shrimp give unbeatable flavor any large shrimp or prawns work fine Feel free to swap parsley for chives or arugula for more peppery bite

A bowl of pasta with shrimp and spices. Pin
A bowl of pasta with shrimp and spices. | chefmiarecipes.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce A crisp green salad with lemony dressing brightens the meal A chilled glass of sauvignon blanc pairs beautifully

Cultural and Historical Context

Linguine with shrimp in cream sauce is a classic dish in Italian American kitchens Its roots go back to the rustic seafood pastas of southern Italy where fresh catch meets pasta and simple sauces The addition of cream is a nod to modern comfort and luxurious weeknight dining

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, just ensure the shrimp are fully thawed, peeled, and patted dry for best texture and flavor.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be less rich.

→ Is it necessary to marinate the shrimp?

Marinating adds depth, but if short on time, tossing shrimp with spices just before cooking still creates delicious results.

→ Which pasta shapes work besides linguine?

Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne pair well, making it easy to adapt this creamy shrimp dish to your pantry staples.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

Sautéed spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can be stirred in for added nutrition and flavor variety.

Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine

Tender shrimp shine in creamy linguine with garlic, tomato, and herbs—ideal for a satisfying dinner.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
25 minutes
Total Duration
40 minutes
Created By: Mia Laurent

Recipe Category: Weeknight Elegance

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Recipe Cuisine: Italian

Recipe Yield: 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Categories: ~

Ingredients You’ll Need

→ Main Ingredients

01 400 g large Argentinian shrimp, peeled and dried
02 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 4 garlic cloves, minced
04 200 ml tomato sauce
05 500 ml heavy cream
06 Fresh parsley, chopped
07 300 g linguine pasta
08 Salt and pepper, to taste
09 Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
10 Fresh basil (optional)

→ Seasonings

11 1 teaspoon garlic powder
12 1 teaspoon red paprika powder
13 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder
14 1 teaspoon dried oregano

→ Shrimp Marinade

15 Juice from 1/2 lemon
16 1 tablespoon olive oil
17 1 teaspoon garlic powder
18 1 teaspoon red paprika powder
19 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder
20 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Steps to Make It

Step 01

Combine peeled and dried shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, red paprika powder, smoked paprika powder, and dried oregano in a bowl. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 02

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 03

In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté minced garlic until golden and fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream, then return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.

Step 04

Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 05

Add the drained pasta and reserved pasta water to the shrimp and sauce in the skillet. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Extra Information

  1. To enhance the flavor, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Essential Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pasta pot
  • Tongs or spoon for tossing

Allergen Details

Review every item for allergen risks. Reach out to a healthcare expert for any concerns.
  • Shellfish
  • Dairy

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

These figures are for general reference and shouldn’t replace expert medical guidance.
  • Caloric Content: 678.5
  • Fat Content: 40.8 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 55.2 grams
  • Protein Content: 29.3 grams