Luxurious, zesty, and ready in under 30 minutes, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti with Lemon & Herbs is the perfect marriage of bold seafood flavor and comforting pasta. Plump, juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce, brightened with fresh lemon juice and finished with aromatic herbs like parsley or basil. This Italian-inspired dish strikes the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity—making it ideal for both weekday dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
| Spaghetti | 8 oz (225g) |
|---|---|
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
For the Shrimp:
| Large or Jumbo Shrimp | 1 lb (450g) |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
For the Cream Sauce:
| Unsalted Butter | 2 tablespoons |
|---|---|
| Shallot, finely minced (optional) | 1 small |
| Garlic Cloves, minced | 3-4 |
| Red Pepper Flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Chicken or Vegetable Broth | ½ cup (120 ml) |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon Zest (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh Parsley, chopped | ¼ cup |
| Fresh Dill, chopped (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Reserved Pasta Water | ½ cup (120 ml) |
| Parmesan Cheese, grated (optional) | ¼ cup |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water (1 tablespoon salt) to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Before draining, scoop out and reserve about ½ cup (120 ml) of the starchy pasta water.
- Drain the spaghetti well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- While the spaghetti is cooking, pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. Season lightly with ¼ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer (cook in two batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook!
- Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet (no need to clean it), melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the optional minced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the 1 cup heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a very gentle simmer.
- Add the 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, optional ½ teaspoon lemon zest, ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley, and optional 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill. Stir well.
- Season the sauce with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Shrimp
- Add the cooked and drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss well with tongs to coat the spaghetti evenly.
- Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the spaghetti and sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water 1-2 tablespoons at a time, tossing until you reach your desired consistency.
- If using, stir in the ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti immediately in warm bowls.
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley and/or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Extra Tips for Perfect Creamy Shrimp Spaghetti
- Don't Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Remove them from the pan as soon as they're pink and opaque to keep them tender. They'll warm through again when combined with the hot pasta and sauce.
- Pasta Water is Magic: This starchy water helps emulsify the sauce, making it silky smooth and ensuring it clings beautifully to the spaghetti.
- Freshness Counts: Fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs make a significant difference in the final flavor of this dish.
- Adjust Consistency: The amount of pasta water you need might vary. Add it gradually until the sauce reaches your preferred creaminess.
Nutritional Value
Approximate (per serving, based on 2 servings)
| Calories | 800-1000 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 50-60 grams |
| Fat | 45-65 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 50-60 grams |
| Fiber | 2-4 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ High-Protein Meal: Shrimp provides a lean, high-protein source that’s low in fat.
- ✅ Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- ✅ Balanced Flavors: Creamy sauce, tangy lemon, and fresh herbs create a well-rounded taste.
- ✅ Customizable: Works with gluten-free pasta or light cream for dietary preferences.
- ✅ Visually Appealing: A beautiful, restaurant-style dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests with your cooking skills, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti with Lemon & Herbs delivers every time. It’s rich, zesty, and full of vibrant flavors that elevate the humble spaghetti into a gourmet experience.
Looking for more easy shrimp pasta recipes, Italian-inspired seafood dishes, or creamy dinner ideas? This one should definitely be at the top of your list. Try it today and enjoy a taste of coastal Italy—right from your kitchen.