Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms

Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms
Introduction
Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of fresh shrimp, tender mushrooms, and rich creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or when you have guests over. This meal is filling, flavorful, and the creamy texture will make you want seconds!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves seafood and carbs! The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with the shrimp and pasta, while the mushrooms add an earthy touch. It’s also easy to make, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you are cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this creamy shrimp pasta will impress and satisfy everyone.
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms
Here’s how you can whip up this scrumptious meal!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells great.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them until they are tender and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp until they are pink, around 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the pasta hot and garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch.
How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms
Serve this creamy shrimp pasta warm right out of the skillet. You can enjoy it as a main course with a side salad or some garlic bread. A glass of white wine pairs nicely with this dish and enhances the flavors even more.
How to Store Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for about 2-3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta slowly in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and slightly firm.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- If the sauce is too thick when reheating, just add a little more cream or a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Variation
You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers. For a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the dish.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance. Just cook the pasta right before serving.
Enjoy making and eating this delicious Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms!