Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta: High Protein 30-Minute Meal (Print Version)
Quick, high-protein creamy garlic shrimp pasta. This satisfying 30-minute meal features succulent shrimp in a rich, flavorful sauce with al dente pasta.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Protein Powerhouse
01 -
1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, raw, peeled, and deveined
→ Hearty Pasta Base
02 -
12 oz high-protein chickpea or lentil pasta (e.g., penne, rotini)
→ Creamy Garlic Infusion
03 -
1/2 cup half-and-half (or light cream)
04 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
05 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
06 -
6 cloves garlic, minced
→ Aromatic Boosters & Fresh Finish
07 -
2 tbsp olive oil
08 -
1 small shallot, finely diced
09 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
10 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
11 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
12 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz high-protein chickpea or lentil pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. This is the base for your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta | High Protein 30-Minute Meal.
02 -
Pat dry 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp; season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mince 6 cloves garlic and finely dice 1 small shallot. Chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley. Have 1/2 cup half-and-half, 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ready.
03 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
04 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add the finely diced 1 small shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced 6 cloves garlic and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 -
Pour in 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and 1/2 cup half-and-half. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This forms the creamy base for your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta | High Protein 30-Minute Meal.
06 -
Add the cooked 12 oz high-protein chickpea or lentil pasta, seared 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, and 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce, ensuring every bite of your Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta | High Protein 30-Minute Meal is flavorful. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
07 -
Stir in 1/4 cup fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with more grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta | High Protein 30-Minute Meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened plant-based milk (like oat or cashew) and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor profile will shift slightly but remain delicious.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
03 -
To further boost the protein and add nutrients, consider stirring in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking.
04 -
Don't skip the fresh lemon juice at the end; it brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness of the cream sauce beautifully.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 650 kcal
Total Fat: 19 g
Total Carbohydrate: 62 g
Protein: 59 g