If you are looking for a dish that combines the perfect balance of rich, velvety sauce with tender, flavorful seafood, this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together succulent Argentinian shrimp enveloped in a luscious tomato-cream sauce, complemented by aromatic herbs and spices that make every bite unforgettable. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special weekend dinner, this recipe delivers impressive comfort with minimal fuss, making it a personal favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

A white bowl holds a neat pile of linguine pasta covered in creamy orange-yellow sauce speckled with small green herb pieces and black pepper. On top sits one single cooked shrimp, browned and slightly crisp, adding a darker orange and reddish color contrast. The sauce looks smooth and thick, coating every strand of pasta evenly. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe lies in its elegant simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that transform this dish from everyday to extraordinary. Fresh shrimp provide sweetness and a tender bite, while creamy elements and spices create a decadent sauce that clings perfectly to the linguine.

400 g Large Argentinian Shrimp: Peeled and dried for the ideal texture and quick cooking time.
3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps infuse the garlic’s aroma into the sauce.
4 Garlic Cloves, minced: A fragrant backbone that turns golden to unlock its sweet, mellow flavor.
200 ml Tomato Sauce: Provides a vibrant acidity that balances the creamy base.
500 ml Heavy Cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth and velvety texture in the sauce.
Fresh Parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a burst of fresh herbaceousness.
300 g Linguine Pasta: Perfect for twirling and holding onto the sauce.
Salt & Pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
Parmesan (optional), grated: Adds an extra layer of umami and creaminess if you like.
Fresh Basil (optional): For a subtle, sweet herbal note and eye-catching garnishing.
Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Red Paprika, Smoked Paprika, Dried Oregano): Essential spice blend that seasons both the marinade and sauce, imparting depth and warmth.
Shrimp Marinade (Lemon Juice & Olive Oil): Helps tenderize the shrimp and infuse them with a tangy, fragrant base flavor.

How to Make Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

The journey to flavor heaven starts with marinating the shrimp. Combining lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, red and smoked paprika, plus oregano, you create a seasoning blend that penetrates the shrimp and adds a punch of zesty, smoky flavor. Toss the shrimp well to coat them evenly and let the marinade work its magic while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat to get a good sizzle, then add the marinated shrimp. Cooking them for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side locks in their juiciness and turns them a beautiful rosy pink. Be careful not to overcook; shrimp get rubbery fast. Once done, set them aside to rest and prepare for their saucy reunion.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt butter to soak up all those delightful shrimp flavors left behind. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns a gorgeous golden brown and fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This step is where the sauce begins to build its depth and warmth.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and heavy cream, stirring them together to create the silky base for your sauce. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and let it all simmer for about 10 minutes. This gentle simmer melds all the flavors beautifully, thickens the sauce to just the right consistency, and lets the shrimp soak in those savory notes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!

Step 5: Cook and Combine the Pasta

While your sauce simmers, cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente—that perfect balance where the pasta is tender yet carries a little bite. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water. Toss the linguine into the sauce along with a splash of the reserved water to help the sauce cling even better. Mix everything thoroughly so every strand is coated in creamy, flavorful goodness.

Step 6: Final Touches

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of green and a fresh counterpoint to the rich sauce. If you like, add freshly grated Parmesan or basil ribbons for a touch of elegance and extra layers of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe

The image shows a white bowl with a blue rim filled with creamy orange-yellow pasta, coated in a thick sauce. The pasta strands are twisted and mixed together, topped with a single browned shrimp in the center, giving a rich texture. There are small green herb pieces sprinkled on the pasta along with some black pepper. In the background, a blue pan is slightly blurred, placed on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe from delightful to stunning. Fresh parsley adds brightness and visual appeal, while freshly grated Parmesan melts gently on top for a savory finish. Basil leaves bring an herbaceous lift, making each forkful exciting and fresh.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of this dish, balancing creaminess with fresh crunch. Garlic bread is another classic companion for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a lemony steamed asparagus also complement the seafood flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the linguine in shallow bowls rather than plates to keep all the creamy sauce contained, allowing diners to twirl the pasta easily. For a fun twist, garnish with edible flowers or chili flakes to add a splash of color and a subtle kick. Pair with a lemon wedge on the side for guests to add a fresh burst of acidity if they desire.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 2 days, though shrimp is best enjoyed fresh for maximum tenderness and flavor. When refrigerated promptly, the sauce retains its creamy texture beautifully.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can freeze the linguine and sauce separately to maintain texture. Keep shrimp portions in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s silky consistency. Avoid using high heat or microwave reheating for shrimp, as it can quickly turn rubbery. The pasta will absorb the sauce nicely with a little patience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating so the seasonings stick well. Fresh or frozen, Argentinian shrimp shine in this creamy sauce.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but keep in mind this may slightly alter the richness and texture of the sauce.

What pasta can I use instead of linguine?

While linguine is ideal for holding this creamy sauce, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will work beautifully if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas can be stirred into the sauce during the simmering step for a nutritional boost and additional color.

How spicy is this recipe?

The paprika powders add a mild smokiness and warmth without overwhelming heat, making this dish approachable for most palates. You can adjust the seasoning to taste if you prefer a little kick.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Shrimp Linguine Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and completely satisfying. It’s quick enough to whip up on a regular night but special enough to impress any guest. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the delightful harmony of creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again!