Creamy shrimp pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a fantastic addition to your meal plan. This shrimp and pasta dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of bright flavors. A simple garlic shrimp pasta that delivers comfort and satisfaction.
Creamy Shrimp Pasta
I tend to cook shrimp more than other seafood, occasionally crab, but rarely fish. To satisfy a seafood craving at home, I create shrimp dishes my family loves. If you want a different twist, shrimp pesto pasta also makes a great alternative.
More Seafood Recipes
- Instant Pot Cilantro Shrimp and Pasta
- Steak Oscar (steak and crab)
- 10 Minute Garlic Shrimp
The Best Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
This creamy shrimp pasta combines shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, half-and-half for the sauce base, garlic, and plenty of Parmesan for a rich, cheesy finish. The result is a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together quickly.
How To Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta At Home
Begin by dicing the sun-dried tomatoes and sautéing them with their oil and the garlic in a skillet until the garlic is fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Meanwhile, cook your fettuccine according to package directions.
Add the shrimp and smoked paprika, and sauté until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through, about 3–4 minutes. The smoked paprika lends a warm, slightly smoky note that complements the tomatoes and garlic.
Pour in the half-and-half and add chopped fresh parsley. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil for 2–3 minutes to help it thicken. Stir in the Parmesan and reduce the heat to low so the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Remove from heat when fully combined.
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, stirring to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Finish with extra parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a dash of smoked paprika if desired. Serve immediately.
How Do You Make Shrimp Pasta
Cook the pasta in one pot and prepare the shrimp and sauce in a separate skillet. Drain the pasta, combine with the finished shrimp and sauce, and serve hot.
What To Make With Shrimp and Pasta
This creamy shrimp pasta is hearty enough on its own. For a fuller meal, serve with Cheddar Bay-style biscuits, garlic bread, or a crisp Caesar or chopped salad.
What Sauce Goes with Shrimp Pasta
What Sauce Goes with Shrimp PastaA creamy, Alfredo-style white sauce pairs beautifully with shrimp. The richness of a cream-based sauce complements seafood better in many cases than a tomato-based sauce, especially when you want a silky texture and cheesy flavor.
Can I Use Spaghetti Noodles for the Creamy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Yes. Spaghetti, angel hair, fettuccine, or ziti will all work well. Choose the pasta you prefer or have on hand—different shapes change the bite but won’t hurt the overall flavor.
Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz. Fettuccini
- 12 oz. Shrimp medium, raw or cooked
- 1 cup Half and Half
- 5 oz. Sun Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil
- 1 ½ cups Parmesan Cheese shredded
- 2 tsp. Chopped Garlic
- 1 tsp. Smoked Paprika
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley chopped
Instructions
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Start by cooking the pasta according to package directions.
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In a skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes with their oil and the garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes.
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Add the raw shrimp and smoked paprika; sauté until the shrimp are cooked through, about 3–5 minutes.
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Pour in the half-and-half and add the chopped parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
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Stir in the Parmesan over low heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat once fully combined.
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Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Top with extra parsley, more cheese, or a pinch of paprika if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Calories: 370kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
How Long Will Shrimp Pasta Last in The Fridge
Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the pasta to cool slightly, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. Reheated shrimp can lose some texture, so check for any off smells or changes before eating to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
How to Reheat Shrimp Pasta
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove in a skillet. Add a splash of milk or half-and-half while reheating to restore creaminess and prevent the shrimp from drying out.
Can I Make Shrimp Pasta with Chicken Instead
Yes. Swap the shrimp for chicken if you prefer. Be sure the chicken is cooked through before adding the sauce so the dish finishes safely and evenly.
Does Pasta Taste Different
Pasta itself doesn’t change much in flavor except when using different types like whole wheat. The perceived difference between shapes (spaghetti vs. bowtie, for example) comes from texture and the ratio of sauce to pasta in each bite. Use the shape you like best for the recipe.
Give this creamy shrimp pasta a try—you’ll likely enjoy the rich sauce, tender shrimp, and the bright pop of sun-dried tomatoes.