Healthy Creamy Garlic Roasted Shrimp Pasta with a Light Cream

Nothing feels more indulgent yet wholesome than twirling a forkful of creamy pasta, infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic and perfectly roasted shrimp. This dish strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and a light, health-conscious approach, making it a perfect meal for cozy dinners or weekend indulgence without the guilt.

Cooking is like love—it should be entered into with abandon or not at all.  – Harriet Van Horne.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Health-conscious without sacrificing flavor: The creamy sauce is lighter than traditional versions, making it perfect for a balanced meal.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknights.
• Elegant yet approachable: The roasted shrimp adds a gourmet touch while being simple to prepare.
• Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients: The Essentials for Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

For the pasta

• 8 oz whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

For the shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the sauce

• 1 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup light cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking shrimp and sauce
• Tongs or pasta spoon
• Fine grater for Parmesan
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Guide to Healthy Creamy Garlic Roasted Shrimp Pasta

Prepare the pasta

Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Toss drained pasta with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

Tip: Always salt your pasta water generously—think “salty like the sea” for the best flavor.

Roast the shrimp

In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Tip: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even roasting.

Make the sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in light cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes, letting the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.

Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest consistency.

Combine and serve

Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tip: Allow the pasta to sit for a minute after tossing to absorb the sauce fully.

Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness. – Auguste Escoffier.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Choose fresh shrimp: If possible, opt for fresh rather than frozen shrimp for a juicier, sweeter taste.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Keep an eye on them; overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
• Deglaze the pan: After cooking the shrimp, scrape up the flavorful bits with the butter and garlic for an extra depth of flavor.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water is key to adjusting the sauce consistency without thinning the flavor.
• Add a citrus twist: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving enhances the dish’s brightness.
• Use high-quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more evenly and gives the sauce a richer flavor.
• Experiment with pasta: Try zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta for a low-carb alternative.
• Garnish generously: Fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and an herbal aroma.

Serving Suggestions

• A side of garlic bread or focaccia for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli for extra greens.
• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé to complement the flavors.

Creativity begins in the kitchen—it’s the art of making simple things extraordinary.

Creative Variations: Customize Your Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Make it spicy

Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
Tip: Toast the red pepper flakes in the butter for enhanced heat and a smoky flavor.

Swap the protein

Use grilled chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a delightful variation.
Tip: Adjust cooking times to ensure the protein stays tender.

Go vegetarian

Skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted veggies.
Tip: Use vegetable stock instead of pasta water for added depth.

Add a crunch

Top the dish with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for texture.
Tip: Toast breadcrumbs with garlic and olive oil for extra flavor.

Try a different cheese

Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a new flavor profile.
Tip: Use sparingly as these cheeses are saltier.

Herbaceous twist

Incorporate fresh dill, thyme, or chives into the sauce for herbal notes.
Tip: Add herbs at the end to preserve their delicate flavor.

Cream-free alternative

Replace the cream with Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter sauce.
Tip: Mix yogurt with a bit of warm pasta water to prevent curdling.

Flavors are like memories—each one tells a story.

Storage and Reheating: Keep It Fresh and Delicious

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.


• Freezing: Freeze the pasta and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.


• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or water to refresh the sauce.

Tip: Avoid microwaving shrimp to prevent overcooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly—overdoing it makes them tough.
Tip: Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

Skipping the pasta water

Discarding pasta water leaves you without a key ingredient for the sauce.
Tip: Always save at least half a cup.

Using pre-grated Parmesan

Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, leading to a grainy sauce.
Tip: Grate cheese fresh for the best results.

Overloading the skillet

Cooking too many shrimp at once results in steaming instead of roasting.
Tip: Cook in batches if necessary.

Forgetting to season

Under-seasoned water or sauce dulls the flavor.
Tip: Taste and adjust seasonings at every step.

The Comfort of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

This healthy creamy garlic shrimp pasta proves that indulgence and nutrition can coexist beautifully. The light, velvety sauce paired with succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that feels both luxurious and wholesome. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion.

Healthy Creamy Garlic Roasted Shrimp Pasta with a Light Cream

A delightful balance of rich flavors and health-conscious ingredients, this creamy garlic shrimp pasta is a quick, wholesome meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Tongs or pasta spoon
• Fine grater
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  

For the pasta:

• 8 oz whole grain or gluten-free spaghetti
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 cup light cream or half-and-half
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
• Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

Prepare the pasta:

• Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions.
• Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil.

Roast the shrimp:

• Toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.

Make the sauce:

• Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Stir in light cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Combine and serve:

• Add pasta and shrimp to the sauce, tossing to coat.
• Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness before serving.
Customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta alternatives.
Enjoy your delicious, healthy creamy garlic shrimp pasta!

Keyword creamy garlic shrimp pasta, healthy shrimp pasta, light cream sauce, quick pasta dinner