I recently discovered a new favorite dish: spaghetti with shrimp in cream sauce. This delectable pasta dish is a perfect combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The shrimp adds a nice touch of seafood flavor and texture to the dish, making it a great option for seafood lovers.
To make this dish, you’ll need spaghetti noodles, fresh shrimp, heavy cream, garlic, butter, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and a few other basic ingredients. The sauce is made by sautéing garlic and shrimp in butter and olive oil, then adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cooked spaghetti is then tossed in the sauce until it’s fully coated and ready to serve. It’s a simple recipe that’s easy to make, but it tastes like something you’d get at a high-end Italian restaurant.
Table of contents
- 1 Ingredients and Substitutions
- 2 Preparation and Cooking Techniques
- 3 Frequently Asked Questions
- 3.1 What are the best spices to complement shrimp in a cream sauce?
- 3.2 How can I create a creamy shrimp pasta dish without using heavy cream?
- 3.3 Can cream cheese be used as a base for creamy shrimp pasta sauce?
- 3.4 What are some simple steps to make a delicious shrimp pasta with cream sauce?
- 3.5 What side dishes pair well with creamy shrimp pasta?
- 3.6 What are some effective substitutes for cream in a shrimp pasta recipe?
Ingredients and Substitutions
Shrimp Selection
When making Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce, it is important to choose the right type of shrimp. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, as they have a meatier texture and will hold up better in the sauce. If you can, opt for wild-caught shrimp as opposed to farmed shrimp, as they tend to have a better flavor and texture.
If you are unable to find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp will work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Pasta Preferences
When it comes to pasta, you can use spaghetti or any other long pasta of your choice. However, I find that spaghetti works best in this recipe as it allows the cream sauce to coat each strand of pasta evenly.
If you are gluten-free, you can use gluten-free spaghetti or any other gluten-free pasta of your choice.
Cream Sauce Components
The cream sauce is what brings this dish together. To make the sauce, you will need heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. If you do not have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will not be as rich and creamy.
If you do not have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead. Just be sure to use a hard, salty cheese that will melt well.
Herbs and Seasonings
To add flavor to the dish, I like to use fresh parsley and red pepper flakes. If you do not have parsley, you can use basil or oregano instead. If you do not like spicy food, you can omit the red pepper flakes or use less of them.
Overall, these are the main ingredients you will need to make Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Sauce. However, feel free to make substitutions based on your personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Preparation and Cooking Techniques
Shrimp Preparation
Before starting to cook, it is important to properly prepare the shrimp. First, remove the shells and devein them. Then, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Cooking Pasta to Perfection
To cook the spaghetti, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes or until it is cooked al dente. Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.
Crafting the Cream Sauce
To make the cream sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Then, add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combining Elements
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss it with the shrimp. Pour the cream sauce over the spaghetti and shrimp and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal of spaghetti with shrimp in cream sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best spices to complement shrimp in a cream sauce?
When it comes to seasoning your shrimp in a cream sauce, you want to be careful not to overpower the delicate flavor of the shrimp. I find that the best spices to complement the dish are garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes. These spices add a subtle kick to the dish without overwhelming the shrimp.
How can I create a creamy shrimp pasta dish without using heavy cream?
If you’re looking to create a creamy shrimp pasta dish without using heavy cream, there are a few options. One is to use a combination of milk and flour to create a roux, which can be used as a base for a creamy sauce. Another option is to use coconut milk, which has a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
Can cream cheese be used as a base for creamy shrimp pasta sauce?
Yes, cream cheese can be used as a base for a creamy shrimp pasta sauce. Simply melt the cream cheese in a pan with some milk or cream to create a creamy sauce. You can also add in some garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs to enhance the flavor.
What are some simple steps to make a delicious shrimp pasta with cream sauce?
To make a delicious shrimp pasta with cream sauce, start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, sauté some garlic and shrimp in a pan until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Add in some cream and Parmesan cheese, and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Toss the pasta with the sauce and shrimp, and serve hot.
What side dishes pair well with creamy shrimp pasta?
Creamy shrimp pasta pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine to complement the flavors of the dish.
What are some effective substitutes for cream in a shrimp pasta recipe?
If you’re looking for a substitute for cream in a shrimp pasta recipe, you can try using milk, half-and-half, or coconut milk. You can also use a combination of milk and flour to create a roux, which can be used as a base for a creamy sauce.