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Creamy blue cheese shrimp pasta is my go-to when I need a luxurious dinner that comes together fast. This dish wraps sweet shrimp in a rich cream sauce that melts crumbly blue cheese into every strand of pasta. When I serve it, friends always ask for the recipe—nobody expects something so gourmet to taste this comforting.
The first time I made this during a chilly weeknight, everyone was quiet at the table except for the sounds of happy eating. Now I crave it whenever I want a grown up twist on creamy pasta.
Ingredients
- Linguine: delivers the perfect texture to hold the creamy sauce aim for bronze die pasta for extra cling
- Shrimp: offers sweet juicy bites that pair beautifully with the cheese choose peeled and deveined shrimp for quick prep
- Garlic cloves: bring sharp savory depth fresh garlic will make a big difference
- Cream: forms the lush base of the sauce use heavy or double cream for best results
- Blue cheese: crumbled into the sauce gives sharp and tangy richness pick a blue cheese you love for the most satisfying flavor
Step by Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the linguine Give it the occasional stir until cooked just al dente so the noodles hold their shape in the sauce Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining
- Sauté the Aromatics and Shrimp:
- Warm a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil Toss in the minced garlic and cook gently for about a minute until fragrant Add cleaned shrimp in an even layer Cook for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque Do not overcook or they will become rubbery
- Create the Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce:
- Lower the heat and pour in the cream Stir well scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan Once the cream starts to bubble scatter in the crumbled blue cheese Let it melt slowly whisking until smooth and glossy
- Combine Everything:
- Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the sauce Toss to coat every strand evenly If the sauce is too thick add a splash of reserved pasta water until silky Taste and season as needed
- Finish and Serve:
- Spoon the pasta onto warm plates and give each dish a generous grind of black pepper For crunch and color scatter chopped walnuts or parsley over the top
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Blue cheese is the real star here I fell in love with its sharp creamy flavor in my first restaurant kitchen and now it turns any ordinary pasta bowl into something unforgettable Sharable dinners like this are always remembered at my table
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days The sauce may thicken after chilling so add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore its silkiness Avoid freezing as cream sauces can split
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap linguine with spaghetti or fettucine if needed For a lighter version try half and half in place of full cream Gorgonzola or Roquefort can stand in for the blue cheese if you prefer something milder or stronger
Serving Suggestions
This pasta loves a crisp green salad on the side and a glass of dry white wine Warm crusty bread makes it a true comfort meal If you want a vegetable twist toss in a handful of baby spinach at the end just until it wilts
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Common Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely, you can substitute linguine with spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne according to your preference.
- → How do I know when shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.
- → Is there a substitute for blue cheese?
If you prefer a milder flavor, try gorgonzola or goat cheese, though the taste profile will change.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served immediately, but you can prepare components ahead and quickly reheat before serving.
- → What can I serve on the side?
Add a crisp green salad or crusty bread to balance the richness and complete your meal.