Imagine a bowl of luscious, creamy pasta, perfectly intertwined with plump shrimp that seem to dance in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite bursts with flavor, evoking memories of family dinners filled with laughter and delightful aromas wafting through the air. This irresistible creamy tomato shrimp pasta dish recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to be savored. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipe options recipe.
Picture this: you’re hosting friends for dinner, and as you serve this vibrant dish, their eyes widen in anticipation. The creamy sauce clings lovingly to the pasta while the shrimp glisten like little pink jewels. This dish isn’t just for a casual weeknight; it’s perfect for impressing guests or cozying up on a rainy evening. Let’s dive into making this culinary masterpiece!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The irresistible creamy tomato shrimp pasta is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights
- Its rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- The bright colors make it visually appealing on any table setting
- Perfect for date night or family gatherings, this dish caters to all occasions
Sharing this recipe at a family gathering once led to my cousin declaring it “life-changing” while polishing off his second helping!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta (Fettuccine or Spaghetti): Choose your favorite type; fresh pasta works beautifully for a richer texture.
- Large Shrimp: Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible; they offer better flavor and texture.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Select ones packed in juice for enhanced freshness and taste.
- Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp on quality.
- Fresh Garlic: Use minced garlic cloves for an aromatic punch; fresh is always best.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate your cheese fresh; it melts beautifully and enhances the overall taste.
- Italian Herbs (Basil, Oregano): Fresh herbs elevate the dish; dried can be used in a pinch but opt for fresh when possible.
For the Sauce:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance—these add a nice kick!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes depending on package instructions.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, around 3-5 minutes.
Create the Sauce Base: Once shrimp are cooked, pour in canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes until flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Creamy Goodness: Lower heat slightly and incorporate heavy cream into the mixture. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-6 minutes.
Toss Everything Together: Drain pasta and add directly to the skillet with shrimp and sauce. Gently toss everything together until coated evenly with that glorious creamy tomato sauce.
Finish with Flavorful Touches: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with Italian herbs into your pasta dish. Mix thoroughly before serving hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this irresistible creamy tomato shrimp pasta dish! With each bite bursting with flavor, your guests will be raving long after they’ve finished their plates!
You Must Know
- This irresistible creamy tomato shrimp pasta dish is a delightful balance of flavors and textures
- The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs fills your kitchen, making it a perfect choice for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
- Don’t forget to have some crusty bread ready for dipping!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create this creamy dream, start by sautéing shrimp until pink, then cook pasta while preparing the luscious sauce. This method saves time and enhances flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a different twist. Adding crushed red pepper can kick up the heat, while fresh basil brightens the overall flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on low heat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh tomatoes when possible; they elevate the dish significantly
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp as they become rubbery
- Always reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed
The first time I made this dish for my friends, they declared me a culinary genius—little did they know how easy it was!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Try using half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter option.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add more crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for extra heat. For more inspiration, check out this more lunch recipes recipe.
Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this creamy tomato shrimp pasta, a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and velvety tomato sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With each bite, enjoy the harmony of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese that will leave your guests craving more.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, packed in juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (basil and oregano)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add shrimp, cooking until pink and opaque (3-5 minutes).
- Create the Sauce: Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices into the skillet. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add Cream: Lower heat slightly and stir in heavy cream. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens (about 4-6 minutes).
- Combine: Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs over pasta before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 220mg