In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding a meal that is both incredibly flavorful and astonishingly quick to prepare can feel like a culinary quest. Look no further! This **Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta** recipe is your ultimate answer to a delicious, no-fuss dinner, ready in under 15 minutes. It ingeniously combines the speed of a skillet sauté with the rich convenience of your favorite prepared garlic Alfredo sauce, creating a meal that tastes like it took hours of effort.

While speed is its superpower, this recipe also offers flexibility. If you’re blessed with a little extra time and a desire for a “from scratch” experience, you can elevate the dish by adding a couple of cloves of freshly minced and sautéed garlic to our homemade Alfredo sauce. Either way, you’re guaranteed a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends, all while keeping your kitchen time to a minimum. Dive into this guide to discover the simple steps, essential ingredients, and various tips to make this dish a staple in your weeknight rotation.

Why This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a Weeknight Lifesaver

This dish isn’t just fast; it’s a culinary triumph for several reasons. First and foremost, its incredible speed makes it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade but lack the time for elaborate cooking. The entire process, from sautéing the shrimp to simmering the sauce and serving over pasta, is designed for efficiency.

Beyond speed, the flavor profile is undeniably captivating. The richness of the garlic Alfredo sauce perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the shrimp, while the dill weed adds a subtle herby freshness that brightens the entire dish. Angel hair pasta, with its fine strands, serves as an ideal canvas, soaking up every bit of that luxurious, creamy sauce. This combination creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences, whether you’re looking to add more vegetables, adjust the spice level, or even lighten it up a bit.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Creating this delightful dish requires just a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. Understanding each component’s role will help you achieve the best possible results and open doors to customization.

• Olive Oil: A foundational ingredient for sautéing. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for its flavor, though any cooking olive oil will work. It helps to perfectly sear the shrimp and prevent sticking.
• Peeled and Deveined Shrimp (thawed): The star of the show. Using shrimp that’s already peeled and deveined saves significant prep time. If using frozen shrimp, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results. Patting it dry can also help achieve a better sear.
• Dill Weed: This herb adds a distinct, subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood and creamy sauces. You can use dried dill, but fresh dill (chopped) can offer an even more vibrant taste if available.
• Garlic Alfredo Sauce: The secret to speed! A good quality prepared garlic Alfredo sauce is key here. It provides the creamy base and rich garlic flavor without the need for extensive cooking. Look for brands with a strong, authentic garlic taste.
• Chicken Broth: Used to thin out the Alfredo sauce slightly, ensuring it coats the pasta beautifully without being overly thick. It also adds an extra layer of savory depth to the sauce. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.
• Angel Hair Pasta: This thin, delicate pasta cooks incredibly fast, making it ideal for a quick meal. Its fine strands are perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce. Other long, thin pastas like spaghetti or linguine can also be used, though cooking times may vary.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste. Always season throughout the cooking process and adjust at the end to bring out the best flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese (for garnish): A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami finish and a touch of elegance to the plated dish.

Recipe: Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a remarkably quick and flavorful meal, requiring just a skillet sauté and your favorite prepared garlic Alfredo sauce. It’s ready in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Author:
Mary Ann

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Cook Time
15 mins

Total Time
15 mins

Course
Main Dish

Cuisine
Italian

Servings
4 servings

Calories
434

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp, thawed
• ½ teaspoon dill weed
• 15 ounces garlic Alfredo sauce
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 8 ounces angel hair pasta
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare 8 ounces angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Ensure it is cooked al dente, firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce. Drain well and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s ready for the shrimp.
3. Add 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp and ½ teaspoon dill weed to the hot skillet. Spread the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
4. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for approximately 3 minutes, or until the shrimp turns opaque pink and is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become tough and rubbery.
5. Pour in 15 ounces garlic Alfredo sauce and ¼ cup chicken broth into the skillet with the shrimp. Stir everything together gently to combine. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce is thoroughly heated through and begins to gently simmer. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season the dish, if desired, with salt and pepper to taste. Taste the sauce first before adding, as prepared Alfredo sauces can vary in their salt content.
7. Serve the creamy garlic shrimp and sauce immediately over the freshly cooked angel hair pasta. Garnish generously with Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Notes and Tips for Perfection

For a “From Scratch” Flavor Boost: If you find yourself with a little extra time and want to elevate the garlic flavor, consider adding a couple of cloves of freshly minced garlic. Sauté the minced garlic in the olive oil for about 30 seconds before adding the shrimp. This deepens the aromatic base of the dish. For a truly homemade experience, you can even prepare your own homemade Alfredo sauce from scratch, then incorporate the sautéed shrimp and garlic into it.

Making it Lighter: If you’re looking to reduce the fat and calories, try using half the amount of prepared Alfredo sauce. While it might not be quite as decadent and creamy, the flavor remains delicious and satisfying. You can also opt for a lighter Alfredo sauce brand, or even use a mixture of Alfredo sauce and low-fat milk or vegetable broth to achieve a similar consistency with fewer calories. Substituting whole wheat pasta or serving it with a larger portion of steamed vegetables can also contribute to a lighter meal.

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. As soon as it turns opaque pink, it’s done. Overcooked shrimp will become rubbery and lose its delicate texture. Keep a close eye on it during the sautéing process.

Perfect Pasta: Cook your angel hair pasta just until al dente. Because it’s so thin, it will continue to absorb liquid and cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce. Al dente pasta provides the best texture for this dish.

Nutrition per serving

Calories:
434 cal


Carbohydrates:
48 g


Protein:
32 g


Fat:
6 g


Sodium:
1568 mg


Fiber:
2 g


Sugar:
3 g


Net Carbohydrates:
46 g

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Perfect Side Dishes and Serving Suggestions

A well-chosen side dish can truly complete your Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta meal. The richness of the Alfredo sauce and shrimp pairs wonderfully with fresh, light accompaniments that balance the flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

• Simple Green Salad: A classic garden salad with crisp mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Caesar Salad: For a slightly more robust salad option, a traditional Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a tangy dressing works beautifully, complementing the Italian flavors of the main dish.
• Steamed Green Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are fantastic choices. They add a pop of color, essential nutrients, and a tender-crisp texture. A squeeze of lemon juice over these vegetables can brighten the entire plate.
• Sautéed Green Vegetables: Alternatively, quickly sautéed spinach or kale with a touch of garlic and olive oil can add another layer of flavor and a healthy boost.
• Grilled Vegetables: During warmer months, grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes provide a smoky sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the creamy shrimp pasta.
• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Don’t forget something to sop up every last drop of that delicious Alfredo sauce! A warm, crusty baguette or homemade garlic bread is always a welcome addition.

Customization and Dietary Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to tailor to your family’s preferences or dietary needs:

• Protein Swap: Not a fan of shrimp? This recipe works equally well with thinly sliced chicken breast or scallops. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through but not overdone.
• Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and color by stirring in some fresh baby spinach, sliced mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even finely chopped bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking the sauce.
• Different Pastas: While angel hair is excellent for speed, feel free to use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, linguine, rotini, or penne. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil when sautéing the shrimp.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or chives, either in addition to or instead of dill weed, to change the flavor profile slightly.
• Dairy-Free Option: For those avoiding dairy, look for dairy-free Alfredo sauces available in many grocery stores, and pair with dairy-free Parmesan alternatives.
• Lower Sodium: If sodium is a concern, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and taste the sauce before adding any additional salt. Many prepared Alfredo sauces can be high in sodium.

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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Fast Dinner

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Angel Hair Pasta recipe stands as a testament to the fact that incredibly delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this dish offers a rewarding experience with minimal effort. Its rich, garlicky, and creamy profile, combined with the delicate texture of angel hair pasta and perfectly cooked shrimp, makes it an instant classic.

Embrace the simplicity and speed of this recipe for your next weeknight dinner. It’s a flavorful solution that frees up your precious evening hours without compromising on taste. So go ahead, give this Creamy Garlic Shrimp a try, and prepare to add a new favorite to your culinary repertoire. Don’t forget to share your creations and any personal twists you add!