Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine Recipe in 30 Minutes

Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine Recipe in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces dried linguine; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Zest from one lemon; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Posted on November 4, 2025

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There’s something magical about the combination of creamy sauce, zesty lemon, and tender shrimp all tangled up in perfectly cooked linguine. Let me tell you, this dish is a complete show-stopper, yet it’s surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a romantic evening, this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine recipe is your ticket to a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.

I first concocted this recipe during a busy weeknight when I was craving something comforting but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The result? A dish that feels indulgent and luxurious, yet is quick enough to make in just 30 minutes. Trust me, once you taste the bright citrusy notes paired with the garlicky richness of the sauce, you might just find yourself making this on repeat!

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests, this creamy lemon garlic shrimp linguine is the answer. It’s a meal that feels fancy but doesn’t demand too much time or effort—and that’s a win-win in my book.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner ideas.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand already, and the rest are easy to find at your local grocery store.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy sauce, tangy lemon, and savory garlic creates a taste that’s downright irresistible.
Versatile: This recipe can be customized to suit various dietary preferences—whether you need gluten-free pasta or want to swap out the shrimp for chicken or veggies.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s date night, a family meal, or entertaining guests, this dish will make everyone feel special.
Restaurant-Level Quality: Your friends and family will be convinced you ordered this from a fancy Italian restaurant!

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity paired with bold flavors. The creamy sauce is perfectly balanced with hints of lemon and garlic, and the shrimp adds a delicate sweetness that takes it over the top. If you’re looking for comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste, this is it. Trust me, the first bite will have you saying, “Wow!”

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish that tastes like it took hours to make. Don’t worry—most of these are pantry staples!

Linguine: About 12 ounces of dried linguine or substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. I recommend medium to large shrimp for the best texture.
Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for richness.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons to help sear the shrimp and add flavor.
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!).
Heavy Cream: 1 cup for that luscious creamy sauce.
Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup for added depth of flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, plus more for garnish. Freshly squeezed is best!
Lemon Zest: Zest from one lemon to amp up the citrusy flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated for creaminess.
Salt & Pepper: To season the dish perfectly.
Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a little heat).
Fresh Parsley: Chopped for garnish. Adds a pop of color and earthy freshness.

If you don’t have linguine, spaghetti or fettuccine work well as substitutes. For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for unsweetened coconut milk and use vegan cheese. It’s easy to tweak this recipe to suit your needs!

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Pot: For boiling the linguine.
Large Skillet: To cook the shrimp and sauce.
Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce without scratching your skillet.
Microplane or Zester: Perfect for grating the lemon zest.
Tongs: Useful for tossing the pasta with the sauce.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure perfect measurements.

If you don’t own a zester, a box grater will do the trick for getting that lemon zest. And in case you’re missing a large skillet, a deep sauté pan works just as well!

Preparation Method

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the noodles. Set pasta aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the lemon juice and lemon zest to the sauce. Stir and let the flavors meld for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and use tongs to toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are a few tips to make sure your creamy lemon garlic shrimp linguine turns out perfectly:

Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly—usually within 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
Use fresh lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a huge difference. Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t pack the same zing.
Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps you adjust the consistency of the sauce and ensures it clings perfectly to the pasta.
Cook garlic over gentle heat: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it and cook it just until fragrant.
Toss pasta thoroughly: Use tongs to mix the pasta with the sauce and shrimp so every strand is coated with that luscious, creamy goodness.

If your sauce looks too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken. On the other hand, if it’s too thick, add splashes of pasta water until it loosens up perfectly.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about this creamy lemon garlic shrimp linguine recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Make it gluten-free: Swap out the linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients and a pop of color.
Switch up the protein: Not a fan of shrimp? Try grilled chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.
Dairy-free option: Swap the heavy cream with unsweetened coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Personally, I’ve swapped the shrimp for salmon fillet pieces before, and it was just as delightful. It’s all about experimenting and finding what works for you!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served hot and fresh, straight from the skillet to your plate. Here are some serving ideas:

Serve with bread: Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Pair with a salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio balances the richness of the cream sauce.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and heat gently on the stove. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may overcook the shrimp.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients too! Here’s the breakdown:

Protein: Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil and butter provide healthy fats in moderation.
Vitamin C: Thanks to the fresh lemon juice, you’ll get a boost of immunity-boosting vitamin C.
Calcium: Parmesan cheese adds a dose of calcium for strong bones.
Low Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles to make it low-carb.

Keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy and shellfish, so it’s not suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine recipe is truly a winner. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is bound to impress.

I love how versatile it is—you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing its magic. And honestly, who can resist the creamy, garlicky goodness paired with that bright pop of lemon?

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see your creations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine is my top pick, spaghetti or fettuccine work well. For a gluten-free option, try using rice or lentil-based pasta.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works just fine! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Simply add more red pepper flakes or stir in a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. You can customize it to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the leftovers on the stove with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving to keep the shrimp tender.

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