Looking for a quick and tasty meal that impresses? You’ve found the right dish! This One Pot Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta combines fresh shrimp, rich cream, and vibrant veggies all in one pot. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy nights. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Join me as we dive into this creamy delight that will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for One Pot Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta:
– Fettuccine pasta: 8 oz
– Medium shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined
– Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Chicken broth: 1 cup
– Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
– Spinach: 1 cup, roughly chopped
– Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Salt and pepper: to taste
– Fresh parsley: chopped, for garnish
Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish rich and tasty. The fettuccine acts as a hearty base. The shrimp adds protein and a sweet flavor. Garlic gives an aromatic punch. Heavy cream brings creaminess, while chicken broth adds depth. Cherry tomatoes add a pop of freshness. Spinach gives a nice color and nutrients. Parmesan cheese finishes the dish with a savory touch. Olive oil helps meld all flavors and provides a nice cooking medium. Salt and pepper enhance every bite, and fresh parsley adds a bright look.
Feel free to adjust these ingredients based on what you have at home. Cooking is about creativity and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute. You want the garlic fragrant but not burnt. Next, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside.
Cooking the Pasta
In the same pot, add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta to the pot. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.
Finishing Touches
When the pasta is nearly cooked, add 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved, and 1 cup of roughly chopped spinach to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften. Reduce the heat to low, then return the cooked shrimp to the pot. Mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
To make this dish shine, adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste as you mix in the shrimp and cheese. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. This change keeps it creamy while reducing calories.
Ensuring Creamy Texture
To avoid clumping, stir the pasta often while it cooks. This keeps it from sticking together. For an even creamier texture, add more heavy cream or a splash of pasta water. The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the pasta in large bowls for a cozy feel. Top it with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. These colorful toppings make the dish look appealing. Choose wide, shallow bowls to show off the creamy sauce and vibrant colors of the shrimp and veggies.

Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch the pasta type for this dish. Try penne or spaghetti instead of fettuccine. They work well and cook similarly. You can also use gluten-free pasta if you need it.
For protein, shrimp works great, but chicken or tofu are good swaps. If using chicken, cook it until golden brown before adding the broth. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm. Just sauté it until it’s crispy on the outside.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost the taste? Add spices like red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a nice touch too. Just toss them in when you add the veggies.
You might also want to include other vegetables. Bell peppers or zucchini can add color and flavor. Cook them with the garlic for a tasty mix.
Dietary Considerations
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Most brands work well without changing the taste.
For lactose-free options, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps the dish creamy and tasty.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers of your One Pot Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, let it cool down first. Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure the lid fits tightly to prevent air from getting in.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy your pasta again, reheat it gently. You can use a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the pasta moist. If using a stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to avoid drying out. Heat on low and stir often until warm. Enjoy your meal just like the first time!
FAQs
How long does it take to cook One Pot Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta?
Cooking this dish takes about 30 minutes in total. You will spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients. The cooking process will take the remaining 20 minutes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook it fully and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in a pan with a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.
What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
This pasta goes great with many sides. Here are some tasty options:
– A simple mixed green salad
– Garlic bread for a crunchy bite
– Steamed broccoli for added veggies
– A light tomato basil soup for warmth
These sides will enhance your meal and add variety.
This blog post lays out a simple and tasty one-pot creamy garlic shrimp pasta recipe. You learned about the key ingredients and easy steps for cooking. I also shared tips to boost flavor and suggested variations based on your needs. You now have guidance for storage and reheating too. Cooking should be fun and stress-free. Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with others. Happy cooking!


