Tuscan Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Indulge in this creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta recipe, a restaurant-quality dish made in just 30 minutes! This easy one-pan pasta features succulent shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a romantic meal, or an Italian-inspired comfort food classic, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it’s easy to customize with gluten-free pasta, chicken, or extra veggies. Learn how to make the best homemade Tuscan shrimp pasta with our step-by-step guide and expert tips!

Ingredients:

• 8-12 oz linguine (or your favorite pasta, including gluten-free options)
• 1 lb large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained, and chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
• Handful of fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced or torn

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, pat dry the shrimp with paper towels and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Heat a large non-reactive skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and butter, swirling to combine. Once the butter stops foaming, add the shrimp in a single layer and sauté for 1-2 minutes per side, or until just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic for about a minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for a minute until slightly thickened. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the shrimp to the pan, along with most of the chopped basil. Stir and remove from heat.
7. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
8. Garnish with the remaining basil and serve warm. Enjoy!

---

Tips

• Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp! They should be opaque and firm but still tender.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add extra pasta water or a splash of cream to loosen it.
• For even more flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap out shrimp for chicken or scallops for a different protein option.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Substitute spinach or kale for basil if you prefer a more earthy taste.
• Try sun-dried tomato pesto instead of whole sun-dried tomatoes for a smoother sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can cook the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the shrimp, and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! This dish works well with fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini, for extra nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Restaurant-Quality: Creamy, garlicky, and rich in flavor, this dish rivals any Italian restaurant meal.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different proteins, pastas, and spice levels.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this comforting and satisfying dish.