Creamy Shrimp and Pasta Recipe with Pico de Gallo
This Creamy Shrimp and Pasta with Pico de Gallo is a delicious fusion of bold flavors! Juicy shrimp and tender pasta are coated in a rich, creamy sauce, then topped with fresh and zesty pico de gallo for a refreshing contrast. Perfect for an easy yet elegant meal! 🍤🍝
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican, Italian-inspired
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta & Shrimp:
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp lime juice
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Pico de Gallo:
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Shrimp:
- Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
-
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
-
Toss the Pasta & Shrimp:
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the sauce.
- Toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
-
Prepare the Pico de Gallo:
- In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt.
- Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
-
Assemble & Serve:
- Plate the creamy shrimp pasta and top with fresh pico de gallo.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped cilantro.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying.
- For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- For extra heat, add more jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce.