Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta

Introduction

Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of shrimp, the tang of tomatoes, and the freshness of basil in a luscious creamy sauce. This pasta is ideal for weeknight dinners or a romantic date night at home. The succulent shrimp paired with al dente pasta and a velvety tomato-basil cream sauce makes each bite a burst of flavor. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together the best of seafood and Italian-inspired flavors in a simple yet elegant dish. The creamy tomato sauce clings perfectly to every strand of pasta, while the fresh basil and garlic elevate the dish with bright, aromatic notes. Plus, shrimp cooks quickly, making this a fast, impressive meal. It’s indulgent, comforting, and yet fresh enough to feel light.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes. The combination of creamy tomato sauce, tender shrimp, and aromatic basil creates layers of flavor that satisfy your taste buds with every bite. It’s visually appealing, flavorful, and perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian / Seafood
• Course: Main Course

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Shrimp:

• 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or spaghetti
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then sauté in olive oil and butter until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from pan.
3. In the same pan, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss cooked pasta and shrimp in the sauce until coated. Serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add olive oil (if needed) and sauté garlic and onion for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cream

Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Basil

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh basil. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Add cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil for presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor; frozen works too if properly thawed.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook very quickly and can become rubbery.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
• You can add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Vegetable Addition: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the sauce.
• Different Protein: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or tofu for variation.
• Cheesy Version: Stir in more Parmesan or mozzarella for extra richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sauce without pasta for up to 2 months; pasta is best cooked fresh.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?
A1: Yes, linguine, penne, or rigatoni all work well with this sauce.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time, but add shrimp and toss with pasta just before serving.

Q3: Can I use canned shrimp?
A3: Fresh or frozen shrimp is preferred; canned shrimp may become mushy when cooked in the sauce.

Q4: How do I prevent the sauce from being too watery?
A4: Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly before adding pasta.

Q5: Can I make this dairy-free?
A5: Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With succulent shrimp, a rich tomato-basil cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that impresses without being complicated. Easy to make, full of flavor, and visually stunning, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.