Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you straight to the coast with every bite? Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce is that culinary delight. The succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked and enveloped in a rich, velvety cream sauce, creates an unforgettable flavor experience. Each strand of spaghetti captures the essence of this dish, making it a feast for the senses.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart; it reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter echoed around the table. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest brings this dish to life, making it perfect for romantic evenings or delightful dinner parties. You can easily whip this up on a weeknight when you’re craving something comforting yet elegant. Prepare to impress your guests or simply indulge yourself with a bowl full of deliciousness!
Key Ingredients For Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Use high-quality pasta for the best texture; fresh or dried works well.
- Shrimp: Opt for large, deveined shrimp for a satisfying bite; frozen shrimp are convenient but thaw them before cooking.
- Heavy Cream: This will create that luscious sauce; avoid light cream to maintain richness.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; use as much as you like depending on your taste preference.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances flavor; use freshly grated for the best results.
For the Sauce:
- Butter: A generous amount will ensure a silky sauce; unsalted butter is preferred for better control of saltiness.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish; it’s essential for balancing flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; use flat-leaf parsley for its robust flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.
Second Step : Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp turns pink, about three to four minutes.
Third Step : Create the Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to low. Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir well. Allow it to simmer gently for about five minutes until thickened slightly.
Fourth Step : Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with shrimp and cream sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Fifth Step : Finish with Flavor
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Mix well and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Quality Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will greatly enhance flavor; always opt for seasonal produce.
- Pasta Perfection: Always salt your pasta water generously; it’s vital for enhancing overall taste.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Keep an eye on shrimp while cooking; they should be just opaque and firm when done.
- Add Spice if Desired: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes while sautéing garlic for extra flavor.
Cooking Instructions
To prepare Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce, start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about one minute. Next, introduce the shrimp into the skillet. Cook for approximately three to four minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can gradually add reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Once the sauce is ready, return the shrimp to the skillet along with cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together gently until each strand of spaghetti is coated with the creamy sauce. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
This Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce pairs excellently with various sides and toppings:
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside your dish for a delightful crunch.
- Green Salad: A light green salad provides freshness that complements the rich flavors of the cream sauce.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Storage Tips
For those who wish to save leftovers of Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce, it’s important to store them properly. Allow any remaining pasta to cool down completely before transferring it into an airtight container. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water as needed to restore its creamy texture.
Nutritional Information
Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce offers a delightful balance of carbohydrates from spaghetti and protein from shrimp. This dish also provides essential fats from heavy cream and olive oil. Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, making it a satisfying meal option without being overly heavy.
FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce?
When preparing Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce, it’s best to choose medium to large shrimp for optimal flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp works wonderfully if available; however, frozen shrimp can also be used effectively if thawed properly beforehand. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight ocean scent rather than an overpowering fishy smell.
Can I make Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare elements of Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce ahead of time but it’s advisable not to combine everything until right before serving. You can cook the spaghetti and prepare the shrimp separately earlier in the day; just store them separately in airtight containers in your refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat up both components together in your sauce.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you want a lighter option for Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk as substitutes for heavy cream. For dairy-free alternatives, coconut milk or cashew cream can provide similar textures while accommodating dietary restrictions.
How can I make my Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce spicier?
To add some heat to your Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce, incorporate red pepper flakes into your garlic when sautéing it at the beginning stages of cooking. Alternatively, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy sausage instead of shrimp for an extra kick!
