Shrimp And Tomato Cream Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Tomato Cream Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Grated parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Shrimp And Tomato Cream Pasta on a cozy evening. The creamy sauce, combined with the sweetness of tomatoes and succulent shrimp, creates a delightful dish that's easy yet impressive. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that transports me right to the heart of Italian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want to wow my guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:41:36.621Z

When I first tried this Shrimp And Tomato Cream Pasta recipe, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The secret lies in the fresh ingredients and a few tricks I've learned over the years. For instance, using a dry white wine enhances the flavor of the tomatoes beautifully.

One tip I can share is to sauté the shrimp until they’re just pink and tender. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, which no one wants! With a sprinkle of fresh basil and parmesan on top, this dish has become a favorite in my household.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and rich sauce that envelops each bite
Quick and effortless for busy weeknights
A lovely balance of flavors with fresh herbs

Why Use Heavy Cream?

Heavy cream is the cornerstone of the luscious sauce in this Shrimp and Tomato Cream Pasta. It provides a rich, velvety texture that clings beautifully to the fettuccine and shrimp. When heated, heavy cream thickens nicely without curdling, allowing the flavors of garlic, white wine, and tomatoes to meld together. If you need a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind that the creaminess will be reduced.

You should avoid low-fat milks or cream substitutes, as they may separate under heat, resulting in a less appealing texture. If you want to make it dairy-free, consider using coconut cream; it will impart a distinct flavor but work well with the shrimp and tomatoes.

Perfecting the Shrimp

To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, aim for a light pink color and an opaque texture. This will take about 2-3 minutes in a medium-heated skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the shrimp to steam instead of sauté, making them rubbery. For a seasoned twist, consider marinating the shrimp with a bit of lemon juice and herbs before cooking, enhancing their natural flavor.

If you notice your shrimp are not cooking evenly, try removing them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and finishing them off in the sauce later. This technique prevents overcooking, which often results in a chewy texture.

Serving and Storing

This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, ensuring the sauce remains creamy and the pasta is perfectly al dente. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to revive the sauce's consistency.

If you want to prep ahead of time, you can cook the pasta and shrimp separately and combine them just before serving. Keep the sauce in the fridge in a separate container. This makes for an easy, quick weeknight meal where you can skip any intensive cooking but still enjoy a flavorful dish!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Shrimp And Tomato Cream Pasta

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious pasta!

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dry white wine
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Grated parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

How to Make Shrimp And Tomato Cream Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create a memorable dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften. Add the heavy cream, salt, and pepper, then simmer for another 5 minutes.

Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.

Serve

Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese, and enjoy!

Enjoy this creamy delight with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Also, using fresh tomatoes when in season can elevate the flavor even further.

Ingredient Spotlight: Cherry Tomatoes

The cherry tomatoes in this recipe provide a burst of sweetness and acidity that beautifully contrasts the creamy sauce. When lightly sautéed, they soften and release their juices, enriching the overall flavor profile of the dish. Look for vibrant tomatoes that are firm to the touch, as they will yield the best results. If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes.

Adding a pinch of sugar to the tomatoes as they cook can enhance their natural sweetness if they're a bit tart. This small adjustment will elevate the dish and balance the acidity from the wine and tomatoes.

Herbs and Garnishes

Fresh basil not only brightens the appearance of the dish but also adds a fragrant, aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully. For a more intense basil flavor, consider tearing the leaves rather than chopping them to release more oils. If you don’t have basil, fresh parsley or even arugula can make excellent substitutes, offering their unique tastes to the dish.

Grated Parmesan cheese is a must for serving, as it adds a salty richness that enhances the creamy sauce. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider using a cashew-based cheese or nutritional yeast sprinkled on top for a nutty flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use linguine instead of fettuccine?

Yes, linguine works perfectly well in this recipe as it’s a similar pasta shape.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini would be great additions.