Craving a rich, flavorful dish? You’ll love my Spaghetti with Shrimp in Creamy Tomato Sauce! This recipe brings together tender shrimp, savory garlic, and creamy goodness. It’s quick to make, yet tastes gourmet. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this dish bursts with flavor and is easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the key ingredients and steps to create your new favorite meal!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Seasoning
– Salt
– Freshly cracked black pepper
Using fresh and quality ingredients makes a big difference. I always choose large shrimp. They add a nice bite to the dish. You can use any pasta you like, but spaghetti works best here. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the spaghetti.
When making the sauce, use good olive oil. It adds depth to the flavors. Fresh garlic is a must. It gives the sauce a lovely aroma. Crushed tomatoes create the base of your sauce. They bring a nice sweetness that balances well with the cream.
Heavy cream is what makes this dish rich and creamy. I recommend using full-fat cream for the best results. Dried basil adds a touch of herb flavor without being overpowering. A little sugar helps mellow out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Don’t forget the Parmesan! It melts beautifully into the sauce. Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a lovely fresh taste.
For seasoning, salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhance all the flavors. Adjust to your taste as you go.
For the full recipe, you can refer to the complete list above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Spaghetti
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
– Add 8 ounces of spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
– Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
– Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Preparing the Shrimp
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
– Increase heat to medium-high.
– Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer.
– Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip.
– Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp is pink and opaque.
– Remove shrimp from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
Creating the Sauce
– In the same skillet, combine 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
– Stir well to mix everything.
– Let the sauce simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes.
– Stir occasionally until it thickens and the flavors meld.
Final Assembly
– Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce.
– Add the drained spaghetti and toss to coat evenly.
– If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water gradually.
– Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
– Sprinkle 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
– Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
Tips & Tricks
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
Timing is key when cooking shrimp. You want them tender, not rubbery. Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. If you cook them too long, they lose their nice texture. To avoid overcooking, remove them from heat just as they turn pink.
Thickening the Sauce
Using reserved pasta water is a great trick. This starchy water helps your sauce cling to the pasta. If your sauce is too thick, gradually add the pasta water until smooth. You can also adjust creaminess by adding more cream if desired. This lets you customize the dish to your taste.
Presentation Suggestions
Presentation matters, even at home. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley for color and flavor. Serve the pasta in deep bowls. This allows the creamy sauce to shine and gives a nice look. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for added flair.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch spaghetti for zucchini noodles. This makes the dish lighter and gluten-free. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies. For cream, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream. Both options add a nice flavor and keep the sauce creamy.
Flavor Enhancements
Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes. They bring heat and depth to the dish. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. They not only add color but also nutrients. Stir them in during the sauce simmer for best results.
Dietary Adjustments
If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that work well. For a vegan version, skip the shrimp and cream. Use plant-based shrimp or mushrooms for texture. Almond milk or a vegan cream can replace heavy cream. These options make this dish friendly for everyone.
For the Full Recipe, check the earlier sections for detailed steps.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To keep your spaghetti with shrimp in creamy tomato sauce fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It stays good for up to three days. Always check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or color changes. If you notice anything odd, toss it out for safety.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, use the stovetop for the best texture. Place the pasta in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream to help it warm evenly. Stir gently until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between. This method is quick but may dry out the pasta.
Freezing for Later
If you want to freeze your dish, do it right away. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some space for expansion. The spaghetti can last in the freezer for about two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For a quick option, use the microwave on the defrost setting. After thawing, reheat on the stovetop for the best results. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above.
FAQs
How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?
Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns a bright pink color. Its skin should look shiny and firm. The shrimp’s flesh will also become opaque and slightly curled. Timing matters. Cook shrimp for about 4 to 6 minutes. Overcooking makes shrimp tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on them while cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make spaghetti with shrimp in creamy tomato sauce ahead of time. To do this, cook the pasta and shrimp, then let them cool. Store the sauce separately. Use airtight containers for the best storage. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat everything. This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days.
What can I serve with spaghetti and shrimp?
For side dishes, consider garlic bread or a fresh salad. These pair well with the rich flavors of the sauce. You could also serve roasted vegetables for a healthy touch. For wine, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio works great. It balances the creaminess of the sauce nicely.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty spaghetti and shrimp dish. You learned about key ingredients and how to create a rich, creamy sauce. I shared important tips for cooking shrimp perfectly and making your dish look great. Don’t forget about variations like zucchini noodles or adding veggies. Whether you’re storing leftovers or preparing ahead of time, these steps will help. Enjoy making your meal and impressing others with your cooking skills!
