Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Studio

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta for a quick and delightful dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and creamy sauce creates a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. I often whip this up when I want to impress guests or simply treat myself after a long day. With the brightness of lemon balancing the richness of the cream, every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:29:36.774Z

There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that brings the seaside to my kitchen. When I first tried this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta, I marveled at how the flavors came together seamlessly. The shrimp cooks quickly, absorbing the lemon juice beautifully, while the cream adds a touch of indulgence. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.

One tip I learned while perfecting this recipe is to cook the pasta just shy of al dente; it will continue to cook when tossed with the sauce, ensuring it retains the perfect texture. The freshness of options like parsley or basil at the end can elevate the dish, adding a pop of color and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp.
Creamy sauce that coats each strand of pasta beautifully.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta lies in the quality of your shrimp. Look for wild-caught shrimp if possible, as they tend to have a firmer texture and a more robust flavor than farmed varieties. Make sure to purchase shrimp that are peeled and deveined for convenience, but if you buy them with shells, it’s a simple task to do it yourself. Any size shrimp works fine, but I prefer large shrimp for a more satisfying bite.

Using fresh lemon juice and zest is essential for the best flavor in this dish. The acidity from the lemon not only brightens the creamy sauce but also balances the richness, creating a well-rounded dish. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t provide the same vibrant zing.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta

When cooking your fettuccine, it’s best to boil it in a large pot of water to ensure it cooks evenly. Adding a generous pinch of salt enhances the pasta's flavor as it cooks. Remember to stir occasionally and check for doneness a minute or two before the package suggests. You want it al dente, which means it should offer a slight resistance when bitten—don’t let it go mushy, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.

Using the same pot used for the pasta to combine everything at the end optimizes flavor. The pasta will carry some of the starchy water into the sauce, giving it a silkier texture. If you find your sauce is too thick once combined, you can add a little of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up and improve the overall mouthfeel.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Once you have everything assembled, you’ll be ready to create this delightful dish!

Instructions

Here’s how to make the Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta step by step.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta makes a lovely main dish when paired with a simple side salad. A light arugula salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette can enhance the meal without overshadowing the main flavors. You could also serve it with crusty garlic bread for a comforting touch, perfect for soaking up the extra sauce that coats the pasta.

For a gourmet touch, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat or a dash of white wine to the sauce for depth of flavor. A few capers or sun-dried tomatoes can also introduce a briny complexity that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some sauce during storage, which could lead to a dry dish once reheated. To combat this, add a splash of cream or a bit of pasta water before reheating to restore the saucy texture.

For freezing, I recommend storing the shrimp and pasta separately if possible; they tend to fare better that way. The sauce can solidify slightly upon freezing, so once thawed, reheat it gently over low heat and whisk in a bit of cream or milk to bring it back to its creamy state.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter sauce.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic.

→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes would complement the flavors well.