Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta

Name: Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta on busy weeknights when I want something quick yet elegant. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a luscious, creamy sauce, perfectly complemented by a hint of lemon that brightens up the entire meal. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a satisfying dinner that feels special. It’s one of those recipes I find myself returning to again and again because it’s simple to whip up and never fails to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:39:36.309Z

When I first tried making a creamy pasta dish at home, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve restaurant-quality flavors. I remember experimenting with different herbs and spices, but finally settled on a creamy lemon sauce that balances richness with freshness, creating a delightful flavor profile. The key is to use freshly squeezed lemon juice for that vibrant tang, which truly elevates the dish.

One of the best tips I discovered is to add the cooked shrimp to the sauce only briefly, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. This prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Now, every time I serve this pasta, I get compliments, and it’s hard to believe it took only a short time to prepare!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce with a bright lemon twist
Perfectly cooked shrimp that add protein and flavor
Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions

Mastering the Shrimp

The shrimp in this dish are the star, adding both flavor and a satisfying bite. To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, be mindful of their cooking time. When heated, shrimp will change from translucent to opaque and develop a lovely pink color. Avoid overcooking them, as this leads to a rubbery texture. If you're using frozen shrimp, ensure they're fully thawed and pat them dry to enhance browning in the skillet.

For a boost in flavor, consider marinating the shrimp briefly in a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, and garlic before cooking. This not only infuses them with bright flavors but also elevates the dish's overall taste profile. Just 15-20 minutes in the marinade will add a wonderful depth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Creating the Perfect Sauce

The creamy sauce is the backbone of this pasta dish, with its combination of heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest providing both richness and a refreshing brightness. For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Just keep in mind that this may affect the sauce's thickness, so consider adding a little cornstarch slurry to maintain a creamy consistency.

When heating the sauce, pay close attention to the simmering time. You want it to thicken and become glossy, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. If it becomes too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it while adding starch for extra creaminess. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper carefully, tasting as you go for the best balance.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure you have everything prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook 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 the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious creamy lemon shrimp pasta!

Serve warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick! Also, you can substitute the shrimp with chicken or vegetables for variation.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The brightness of the dressing contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the pasta. For an extra touch, serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables to round out the meal. Adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also introduce a delightful kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

If you want to elevate the presentation, consider garnishing your dish with lemon wedges and additional fresh parsley just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also invites your guests to squeeze a bit more lemon juice over their dish, enhancing the flavor even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're short on time, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The shrimp can also be sautéed a few hours in advance; just reheat gently in the skillet. When ready to serve, combine with the sauce and freshly cooked pasta for the best texture and flavor.

Leftovers of this delicious pasta can be stored in the fridge but be aware that the texture might not be the same the next day. To reheat, add a few tablespoons of cream or pasta water in a skillet over low heat, stirring until warmed through for a creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can dry out the dish and separate the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta type, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of oil.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can cook the pasta and shrimp separately, then reheat them together with the sauce.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A light salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.