Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Cream Shrimp

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Cream Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 ounces angel hair pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Kitchen Creations

I love making Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Cream Shrimp because it's not just delicious; it's quick to prepare, perfect for intimate dinners or celebrations. The lightness of the angel hair paired with a rich garlic cream sauce makes it irresistible. As I toss the perfectly cooked shrimp into the mix, the aroma fills my kitchen, and my family eagerly anticipates dinner. This dish is great for impressing guests while still being a breeze to create, bringing everyone to the table with a sense of excitement.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:49:34.948Z

When I first created this Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Cream Shrimp, I was aiming for something that felt luxurious yet didn’t require hours in the kitchen. The balance of garlic and cream is magical, and the angel hair soaks up all the flavors beautifully. One tip I learned is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining, as it really helps to adjust the sauce consistency when mixing everything together.

Another secret is the timing of adding the shrimp to the pan. I’ve found that cooking them just until they're pink and tender, then immediately tossing them with the sauce, keeps them juicy without overcooking. This method guarantees a winning dish every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that's bursting with flavor
Quick cooking time, perfect for weeknight dinners
Elegant dish that impresses at any gathering

The Perfect Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. Opt for large, fresh shrimp if available, as their texture holds up better during cooking and enhances the overall dish. If using frozen shrimp, ensure to fully thaw them before cooking. Simply placing them in a colander under cold running water for 10-15 minutes will work. This prevents them from becoming rubbery and helps develop the ideal tender bite. Seasoning with salt and pepper just before adding to the skillet ensures an extra layer of flavor.

When sautéing the shrimp, be careful not to overcrowd the skillet. This can lead to steaming rather than searing, which won’t give you that appealing color. Typically, about 6-8 shrimp at a time is ideal for medium heat. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque, around 2-3 minutes, as overcooking can lead to a disappointing texture. Once cooked, remove them promptly from the pan to prevent carryover heat from cooking them further.

Making the Cream Sauce

The key to a smooth and luscious garlic cream sauce lies in how you manage the heat. Begin by bringing the heavy cream to a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil, which can cause it to separate. Stir constantly to promote even heating and watch for the sauce thickening slightly, generally around 3-5 minutes. Incorporating freshly grated Parmesan ensures a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while pre-grated varieties can include anti-caking agents that may affect the sauce consistency.

If your sauce becomes too thick while incorporating the pasta, simply loosen it with the reserved pasta water. This starchy water not only helps adjust the texture but also binds the sauce to the noodles, elevating the overall dish. A good rule of thumb is to add a couple of tablespoons at a time, mixing until you reach the desired creaminess. This step can make a significant difference in ensuring every strand of angel hair is perfectly coated.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal:

For the Pasta and Shrimp

8 ounces angel hair pasta
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize this dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Cream Shrimp:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 2-3 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is reached.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything well in the sauce. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this delicious Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Cream Shrimp with a side salad or your favorite bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers. It elevates the taste and adds a nice depth to the overall dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the angel hair pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This method helps maintain the dish's original texture without succumbing to the dryness that often occurs with microwave reheating.

For freezing, it's best to store the pasta and sauce separately. Freeze the shrimp and cream sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat the sauce on the stove while cooking fresh pasta. This ensures that both components remain fresh and flavorful, reminiscent of the original dish.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit dietary preferences. For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. If you're looking to make it lower in carbs, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of angel hair pasta. This will create a unique twist while maintaining a satisfying, comforting meal without the heaviness of traditional pasta.

Incorporating vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus can add nutritional benefits and vibrant color. If adding spinach, toss it in with the shrimp for just 1-2 minutes until wilted. For sun-dried tomatoes, simply mix them in when adding the cream to the sauce. These additions not only enhance the flavor profile but also give the dish a restaurant-quality touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair is quick to cook, you can substitute with spaghetti or fettuccine.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for less butter to reduce calories.

→ What can I add for more veggies?

Try adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a pop of color and nutrition.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

I recommend making the sauce fresh to keep the cream from separating, but you can prep the garlic and cheese in advance.