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Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine with Creamy Lemon Sauce

This creamy shrimp linguine combines tender garlic butter shrimp with a silky lemon cream sauce for an easy pasta dinner that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. Fresh garlic, Parmesan, and lemon create a rich yet refreshing flavor that's perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces linguine
  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra Parmesan for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
  3. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
  5. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  7. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  9. Add the cooked linguine and gently toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  10. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with extra Parmesan and additional lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Add spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for extra vegetables.
  • For a little heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.