why make this recipe
This creamy pasta cooks fast and tastes rich. It mixes warm Old Bay spice with shrimp and cheese for a quick weeknight meal. If you like bold creamy flavors, try this red pepper gouda soup for another creamy idea.
introduction
Creamy Old Bay Shrimp Pasta is simple and bright. The Old Bay gives the shrimp a nice spice, and the cream and Parmesan make a smooth sauce. You can serve it alone or with a light side like the quick vegan pasta sauce for guests who want less cream.
how to make Creamy Old Bay Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients :
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions :
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning. Cook until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, then add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
A creamy sauce like this uses the same idea found in a simple soup method from a creamy Parmesan soup recipe where you melt cheese into warm cream.
how to serve Creamy Old Bay Shrimp Pasta
Serve hot on plates or in shallow bowls. Add extra parsley on top for color. A green salad or steamed vegetables pair well. Offer lemon wedges so people can squeeze fresh lemon over the shrimp for brightness.
how to store Creamy Old Bay Shrimp Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature before storing. Put in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze the pasta with cream sauce; texture will change.
tips to make Creamy Old Bay Shrimp Pasta
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp and pat dry so they sear well.
- Don’t boil the cream; warm it slowly to keep it smooth.
- If the sauce gets too thick, thin with a little pasta water or milk.
- For a richer finish, stir in a small knob of butter at the end.
For another creamy sauce idea and technique, see this Churu chicken Amarillo recipe.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked sausage or sliced pepperoni for a meatier dish. You can use a seasoned cured meat like old-world pepperoni for a spicy twist.
- Swap angel hair for spaghetti or linguine for a bit more bite.
- Add a handful of spinach or cherry tomatoes in step 4 for color and veg.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw first and pat dry. Cook as directed.
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Heat gently to avoid curdling.
Q: How long does this take to make?
A: About 20–25 minutes from start to finish if pasta and shrimp cook while you make the sauce.
Q: Is Old Bay very spicy?
A: Old Bay is more savory and aromatic than very hot. Use less if you prefer mild flavor.
Q: Can I make this without Parmesan?
A: Yes. Use another hard cheese like Pecorino or add a little cream cheese to help thicken the sauce.
Creamy Old Bay Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning. Cook until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, then add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.