Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta: A Dreamy Seafood Dinner in Minutes
If you’re looking for a dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to make, this Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta is exactly what you need. Juicy shrimp are simmered in a luscious tomato cream sauce, perfectly seasoned and tossed with strands of delicate pasta. It’s rich, flavorful, and ready in about 30 minutes — a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen.
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the tang of tomatoes and the smoothness of cream, creating a dish that’s comforting yet elegant enough to serve on a special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy and flavorful: The sauce is rich but not heavy, thanks to the perfect balance of cream and tomatoes.
- Versatile: Works beautifully with spaghetti, linguine, or even penne pasta.
- Restaurant-quality at home: Every bite tastes like it came straight from a fine Italian bistro.
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 300 g (about 10 oz) spaghetti or linguine
- Salt, for boiling water
For the creamy shrimp sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 450 g (1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside. - Cook the shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper, then cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate. - Prepare the sauce base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in paprika, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in color. - Add tomatoes and cream:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. - Combine and simmer:
Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Stir to coat them evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. - Toss with pasta:
Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss gently until every strand is coated in the creamy tomato sauce. - Serve and garnish:
Plate your pasta, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and finish with an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly and can turn rubbery if left too long in the pan.
- Adjust the sauce consistency: Add a bit of reserved pasta water if it’s too thick or simmer longer for a thicker, creamier texture.
- Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh parsley or basil enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta with:
- A crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or homemade focaccia
- A side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus
Storing and Reheating
- To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
This Creamy Tomato Shrimp Pasta is proof that elegant dinners don’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels luxurious and tastes absolutely unforgettable.