Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine

If you love creamy shrimp pasta, this might become one of those easy dinners you make again and again. Juicy garlic shrimp, tender browned mushrooms, and fettuccine all get coated in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, making every bite satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Shrimp and mushrooms together. The earthy mushrooms add depth alongside the juicy garlic shrimp.
• Rich Parmesan cream sauce. Silky and packed with flavor, it coats every strand of fettuccine.
• Ready in 30 minutes. A comforting dinner that doesn’t take all evening.
• A little heat if you want it. Red pepper flakes add a subtle kick to balance the richness.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup reserved pasta water
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine

1. Cook the fettuccine. Cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Season the shrimp. Season the shrimp with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, making sure the shrimp are evenly coated.

3. Sear the shrimp. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden. Transfer the shrimp to a plate.

4. Brown the mushrooms. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and sliced mushrooms to the same skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and nicely browned.

5. Add the garlic. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Make the creamy Parmesan sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

7. Toss with the fettuccine. Add the cooked fettuccine and toss until completely coated in the creamy garlic sauce. Gradually add some reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

8. Finish with the shrimp. Return the garlic shrimp to the skillet and gently toss with the creamy fettuccine and mushrooms. Heat briefly until everything is warm.

9. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine

• Don’t overcook the shrimp in the first sear. They’ll finish warming through when tossed back in at the end, so 2 to 3 minutes per side is enough.
• Let the mushrooms brown properly. Giving them space in the pan helps develop that rich, savory flavor.
• Save that pasta water. It helps loosen the sauce and gives it a silkier texture that clings to the noodles.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce, since pre-shredded cheese can make it slightly grainy.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Fettuccine

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely, since the pasta itself is rich and satisfying on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions