Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta! The combination of succulent shrimp in a luxurious lemon cream sauce is something I crave time and again. The bright citrus notes elevate the dish, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. The best part is how quick and easy it is to prepare, taking just under 30 minutes. I usually serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. It's truly a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:20:36.750Z

When I first made this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a delightful dish. The creamy sauce, infused with zesty lemon, complements perfectly tender shrimp and al dente pasta. I often experiment with adding a hint of garlic and fresh herbs, which elevate the flavors even more!

One technique I’ve found helpful is to reserve a little pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid helps bind the sauce and pasta together, enriching the creamy texture. Whether it's a family dinner or a special date night, this pasta never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon aroma that invigorates the senses
Creamy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta
Quick cooking time, ideal for weeknight meals
A beautiful presentation that makes it look gourmet

Understanding the Ingredients

The key players in this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta are the shrimp, heavy cream, and lemon. Choosing high-quality shrimp is essential; opt for wild-caught when possible for a richer flavor. The heavy cream creates a luscious sauce, while the lemon juice and zest provide that zesty brightness. Don't skimp on the lemon; its acidity helps balance the richness of the cream and enhances the seafood flavors beautifully.

Pasta choices can vary for this recipe, but spaghetti is a perfect match, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully due to its shape. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute whole-grain spaghetti or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary for alternatives; check packets for specific cook times.

Cooking Techniques to Remember

When cooking the shrimp, ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding to avoid steaming instead of sautéing. The shrimp should sizzle when they hit the oil. Cook just until opaque and slightly firm—overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them! If you have trouble getting a good sear, you can pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before seasoning.

For the sauce, a gentle simmer is key; bring the cream and lemon juice just to warmth, avoiding a rolling boil which can lead to separation. Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps achieve the desired creaminess while preventing the sauce from becoming too thick. Remember that the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, so aim for a slightly thinner texture when combining.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Make sure everything is prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Following these steps will guide you to delicious results:

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, and bring to a simmer. Stir in lemon zest and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti and shrimp to the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. You can also customize this dish by adding veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce tends to thicken when chilled, so when reheating, add a splash of water or additional cream to loosen it up. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare it in advance, cook the pasta and shrimp separately and store them. The sauce can be made ahead of time as well, but combine everything right before serving to retain the best flavor and texture. This way, you won't experience the common pitfall of overcooked shrimp or overly thickened sauce in leftovers.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! For a hint of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Alternatively, fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can be incorporated into the sauce, bringing in extra nutrients and flavor. You could also swap out the shrimp for chicken or a vegetarian protein like chickpeas for a different take on this dish.

If you find yourself craving an herbal twist, consider adding fresh basil or dill at the end of cooking. These herbs can complement the lemon nicely without overpowering the dish. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as fresh herbs can alter the overall flavor balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead and assemble it just before serving.

→ What other pasta can I use?

Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice works great with this sauce.