Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto: A Gourmet Delight

Indulge yourself in a bowl of creamy garlic shrimp pasta topped with crispy prosciutto, a dish that is as elegant as it is comforting. This recipe combines succulent shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, tossed with al dente pasta, and garnished with perfectly crispy prosciutto. With a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious creamy garlic shrimp pasta, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces of fettuccine or linguine
  • Salt (for pasta water)

• For the Shrimp and Sauce:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• For the Crispy Prosciutto:

  • 4 ounces prosciutto, sliced thin

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine (or linguine) and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Prosciutto

1. While the pasta cooks, place a large skillet over medium heat and add the prosciutto slices.
2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cool, crumble into pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

1. In the same skillet used for the prosciutto, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy shrimp sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with crispy prosciutto and freshly chopped parsley.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

• Choosing the Right Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
• Pasta Cooking Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret trick to help thicken and bind the sauce to the pasta. Always reserve a bit before draining.
• Crispy Prosciutto: For extra crispiness, you can bake the prosciutto slices in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes instead of pan-frying.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs such as basil or thyme to add a fresh touch to your creamy garlic shrimp pasta.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. You can also use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy garlic shrimp pasta with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully. For a touch of elegance, consider serving with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.

Photography Ideas

Capture the beauty of your creamy garlic shrimp pasta by plating it in a shallow bowl, garnished with the bright green parsley and crispy prosciutto. Consider overhead shots to showcase the vibrant colors and textures, and don’t forget to include a glass of wine in the frame for an added touch of sophistication.

Further Reading

Explore more on Italian cuisine and cooking techniques by reading our articles on homemade pasta recipes or the art of sautéing seafood. For kitchen tools, a good quality non-stick skillet and a pasta pot will serve you well in many recipes.

Embrace your culinary creativity and try out this creamy garlic shrimp pasta with crispy prosciutto. You’ll enjoy the process and the delightful flavors that come together in this gourmet dish. Don’t forget to share your experience and spread the word—your kitchen adventures await!