Name: Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz pasta (linguine, penne, or fettuccine); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta delivers the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with protein, and ultra-satisfying. The combination of shrimp and a silky tomato-based sauce makes it feel indulgent, yet it’s simple enough to whip up in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta shape or additional vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pasta (such as linguine, penne, or fettuccine)
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Parmesan cheese, grated
Olive oil
Butter
Italian seasoning
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onion until softened, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Add red pepper flakes if using.
Return shrimp to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If needed, use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use scallops or chicken instead of shrimp.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
For extra heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the sauce may separate and shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What pasta works best with this sauce?

Linguine, fettuccine, or penne are great choices. Any pasta that holds sauce well will work.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese or omit it.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spicy if you add red pepper flakes. Adjust to taste or omit for a milder version.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the very end just to warm through so they don’t overcook.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook just until they turn pink and start to curl, usually 1–2 minutes per side.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Store separately and combine when ready to eat.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the sauce a little longer before adding cream, or add a touch more Parmesan.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy tomato and shrimp flavors.

Can I add lemon juice to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor and pairs well with shrimp.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta is a decadent yet easy-to-make dish that brings bold flavor and elegance to your dinner table. With its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in. Simple, delicious, and ready in minutes—it’s pasta perfection.