Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce

My culinary journey began, not in a Michelin-starred restaurant, but in my tiny, perpetually messy kitchen. Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce wasn’t a sophisticated dish, but it was, and remains, my go-to comfort food. It’s a creamy, dreamy hug in a bowl.

This recipe is more than just noodles and shrimp; it’s a nostalgic trip back to simpler times, a testament to the magic of simple ingredients elevated by a touch of love (and maybe a generous helping of cream cheese). Its rich, satisfying flavors are perfect for a cozy night in.

This Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce recipe boasts several fantastic qualities:

It’s incredibly easy to prepare, even for a novice cook.

The flavor is rich, creamy, and intensely satisfying.

The visual appeal is stunning, making it perfect for dinner parties.

It’s incredibly versatile—adapt it with your favorite veggies or spices.

Ingredients for Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Shrimp Use about 1 pound of medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined. Look for firm, plump shrimp with a slightly sweet aroma.

Spaghetti Choose your favorite brand of spaghetti. A good quality pasta makes a difference in the final dish.

Cream Cheese Full-fat cream cheese adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. Let it soften to room temperature for easy blending.

Chicken Broth Use low-sodium chicken broth for a flavorful base for the sauce, avoiding any overly salty additions.

Garlic Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor that elevates the entire dish. Use about 2-3 cloves.

Lemon Juice A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the richness of the cream cheese sauce and adds a zesty kick.

Olive Oil Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and healthy fats.

Parmesan Cheese (optional) A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory note at the end.

Salt and Pepper Season to taste. Freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor profile.

Fresh Parsley (optional) A garnish of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and saute for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don’t let it burn!

Step 4: Add the Shrimp and Broth

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cream Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If needed, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (optional).

Tips and Variations for your Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce

This recipe is your canvas; feel free to experiment. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Sauté some spinach or chopped mushrooms with the garlic for extra flavor and nutrients. You can even add a splash of white vinegar for brightness if desired. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability.

Frequently Asked Questions about Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Q: What kind of cream cheese should I use?

A: Full-fat cream cheese works best, as it provides the richest and creamiest sauce.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: It’s best to make this dish fresh, as the pasta can become soggy if it sits for too long. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before adding the pasta.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?

A: A simple side salad or crusty bread is a perfect accompaniment.

Enjoy this incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce. Let me know in the comments how yours turned out!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cook the pasta according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, sauté shrimp until pink. Simultaneously, prepare the cream cheese sauce. Combine everything for a quick and delicious meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the sauce beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Use high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque. Properly draining your pasta prevents a watery sauce.

My aunt raved about this spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce. She said it was the best she’d ever tasted, and that’s coming from a very discerning foodie!

The Recipe

: Spaghetti with Shrimp in Cream Cheese Sauce

This recipe is a celebration of simple elegance. Its creamy, dreamy sauce clings perfectly to each strand of pasta, while the succulent shrimp add a delightful burst of briny flavor. Get ready for a culinary adventure that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this culinary masterpiece, you will need:

One pound of linguine or spaghetti

One pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined

Eight ounces of cream cheese, softened

Half a cup of chicken broth

Two tablespoons of butter

Two cloves of garlic, minced

One-fourth cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Let’s Get Cooking

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, let’s tackle the star of the show, the shrimp!

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it brown; we just want to release those beautiful garlic aromas.

Now, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for two to three minutes per side, until they turn a beautiful pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. We don’t want to overcook those beauties!

Crafting the Dreamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it’s melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the sauce is creamy and luscious. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

Bringing it All Together

Drain the perfectly cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss to coat every strand evenly. Now, add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine. Finally, stir in the Parmesan cheese.

The Grand Finale

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley. This Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce is a symphony of flavors and textures. The creamy, rich sauce, the delicate shrimp, and the perfectly cooked pasta create a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds singing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

This section addresses common queries about the recipe, ensuring comprehensive coverage and improving search engine optimization.

What can I substitute for cream cheese? You can experiment with other cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone, but the cream cheese provides a unique flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to help them brown better.

My sauce is too thick; what can I do? Add a little more chicken broth, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

My sauce is too thin; what can I do? Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to reduce some of the liquid. A cornstarch slurry can also help thicken it.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.

Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Consider adding other seafood, like scallops or mussels, for a seafood feast!

Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.

If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Conclusion

This recipe is a testament to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make yet elegant enough for a special occasion. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness that awaits! Your family and friends will thank you for this unforgettable Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce.

Conclusion for Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce

This Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce recipe is a delightful, easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual dinner party. The creamy sauce complements the succulent shrimp beautifully, and the recipe offers flexibility for substitutions and meal prepping. Remember to cook the shrimp just until pink to avoid overcooking. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying pasta dish! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce.

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FAQs

Can I make this Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can cook the spaghetti and shrimp separately ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Then, when you’re ready to eat, simply combine everything with the cream cheese sauce, heat through, and enjoy! Just remember that the shrimp might slightly change in texture if stored for too long. Aim for making the sauce and combining everything within 2 days for optimal flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in this Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce recipe?

While cream cheese delivers that wonderfully creamy texture, you can experiment with other options! Ricotta cheese offers a slightly tangier, equally creamy alternative. You could also try mascarpone cheese for a richer, slightly sweeter flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will subtly alter the final taste of your Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce. A little experimentation might be needed to find your perfect substitute!

Is this Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce recipe gluten-free?

To make this Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce gluten-free, simply use gluten-free spaghetti. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free pasta options these days, so finding a suitable replacement is easy. Just double-check the packaging to ensure it’s certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten.

My shrimp is overcooked! What went wrong with my Spaghetti with shrimp in cream cheese sauce?

Don’t despair, even culinary pros have overcooked shrimp moments! Overcooked shrimp tends to become tough and rubbery. To avoid this, remember that shrimp cooks very quickly. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size of your shrimp. Don’t overcrowd the pan when you’re cooking them, as this will lower the pan’s temperature and extend the cooking time. If your shrimp is already overcooked, unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to reverse it, but try to make a larger cream cheese sauce to help mitigate the toughness. Next time, keep a close eye on those little crustaceans!