Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp Cream

Name: Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp Cream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g angel hair pasta; 300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup white wine; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

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I absolutely adore making Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp Cream for dinner. This dish combines delicate pasta with succulent shrimp and a rich, creamy garlic sauce. The wonderful blend of flavors makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing me to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home without the fuss. I often serve it with a sprinkling of fresh herbs to elevate the dish. Trust me, this creamy pasta is sure to impress your family or guests any night of the week!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:09:35.069Z

Whenever I'm in the mood for a quick yet indulgent meal, I turn to my Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp Cream. The method I use really emphasizes the delicate texture of the pasta while ensuring that the shrimp stay tender and flavorful. I like to use plenty of garlic and a splash of white wine to build a depth of flavor that balances perfectly with the cream.

One tip I recommend is to reserve a little pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency. This not only helps the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully but also adds additional starch, enhancing the overall texture. It’s truly one of my favorite go-to recipes for a sophisticated dinner at home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the delicate pasta
Succulent garlic shrimp that brings each bite to life
Quick preparation time for busy weeknights or special occasions

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When preparing Angel Hair Pasta With Garlic Shrimp Cream, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the dish's overall flavor. I recommend using fresh, large shrimp for a meaty texture and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the cream sauce. If fresh shrimp isn't available, look for frozen shrimp that is peeled and deveined, ensuring they are properly thawed before cooking to maintain their quality and firmness.

The choice of olive oil is equally important; opt for a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor. This simple ingredient will not only enhance the taste of the dish but also add a healthy richness that complements the garlic and cream. Always check that your heavy cream is fresh—this will directly affect the texture and richness of your sauce.

Techniques for Perfect Pasta and Shrimp

Cook the angel hair pasta until it is just al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. This typically involves boiling for about 2-4 minutes, depending on the brand, so keep an eye on it. When draining, reserve a cup of pasta water; this starchy liquid is a fantastic tool to adjust the sauce's consistency without losing flavor.

For the shrimp, ensure your skillet is preheated over medium heat before adding the oil to achieve a nice sear. If they are overcrowded, they may steam rather than sear, resulting in a rubbery texture. Cook them just until they turn pink to preserve their tenderness—this usually takes only 3-4 minutes. They should be firm but not chewy; if you notice they are becoming tough, reduce the heat slightly and remove them promptly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful dish:

For the pasta and shrimp

200g angel hair pasta
300g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup white wine
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pasta dish:

Cook the pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the sauce

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Combine pasta and shrimp

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Check the consistency, and if needed, add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired thickness.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy your rich, creamy meal!

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving and Pairing Options

For a complete dining experience, consider serving this dish with a side of garlic bread. The crispy bread can soak up any leftover sauce, making it even more enjoyable. A simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp pasta beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast.

You can also elevate the presentation by adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of truffle oil before serving. This adds both a decadent flair and depth of flavor that pairs nicely with the creaminess of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're short on time, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance. Simply cook the shrimp and sauce, then cool and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently over low heat and cook the pasta fresh. This ensures that your dish will still have the same delightful taste and texture as if made completely fresh.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Adding a splash of chicken broth or more cream can help restore the sauce's consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While angel hair pasta works beautifully, you can substitute with other pasta types like fettuccine or linguine.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter sauce alternative, but it may alter the richness.

→ Can I prepare this meal in advance?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and just cook the pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread makes an excellent side to complement the pasta.