Rosemary Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Rosemary Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful dinner that comes together quickly with simple Mediterranean ingredients. Plump shrimp simmer in a creamy garlic sauce lightly scented with fresh rosemary tossed with tender penne—it is a dish I rely on when I want something both comforting and bright for weeknights or company. The luscious cream sauce is perfectly balanced by herby depth and juicy shrimp.

When I first made this pasta on a busy weeknight it disappeared so quickly my family was requesting it again by the weekend. The rosemary aroma fills the whole kitchen—it feels special even though it takes almost no time at all.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: choose a sturdy tube shape to hold the creamy sauce look for bronze cut penne if possible for extra sauce cling
• Shrimp: fresh or thawed frozen perfect for quick cooking seek out firm bright shrimp with no off odor for best flavor
• Heavy cream: creates richness and silkiness in the sauce always use cold fresh cream for best results
• Garlic: brings fragrance and zing make sure it is fresh and firm not sprouting for the boldest taste
• Fresh rosemary: classic Mediterranean touch choose sprigs with green pliant needles and a piney fragrance
• Vegetable broth: a little go-between that helps the sauce blend smoothly look for low sodium broth if you want to control saltiness

Instructions

Cook the Penne:

Fill a large pot with water and bring to a vigorous boil add a large pinch of salt and drop in the penne Cook for about ten minutes or until just al dente Test a piece by biting it it should be tender but with a slight chew Reserve half a cup of pasta water and drain well

Sauté the Garlic and Rosemary:

Place a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add a swirl of olive oil then the minced garlic and chopped rosemary Sauté for one minute stirring constantly until everything is fragrant but not browned The aroma should rise up as soon as the rosemary hits the pan

Cook the Shrimp:

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly Add them to the skillet in a single layer Cook on one side for two to three minutes until they turn a blush pink and begin to curl Flip and finish for another thirty seconds to one minute just until opaque and cooked through Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside

Build the Creamy Sauce:

Reduce heat to low Pour the heavy cream and vegetable broth into the skillet with any leftover garlic and rosemary bits Scrape up any browned bits for flavor Let the mixture simmer for three to four minutes stirring occasionally until it starts to thicken

Combine Everything:

Add the drained penne to the skillet and toss gently so all pieces are coated If the sauce is too thick add a splash of reserved pasta water Return the cooked shrimp to the pan Fold gently so the shrimp are tucked into the sauce Let everything warm together for about one minute

Serve:

Spoon the pasta into warm bowls Top with extra rosemary if you wish Serve immediately for the best texture and aroma

The combination of rosemary and garlic has always been the highlight for me It reminds me of seaside dinners where the air smells of piney herbs and buttery seafood and gathering everyone around a steamy bowl to savor the aroma is one of my favorite kitchen memories

Storage Tips

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days For best results reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of extra cream or vegetable broth to loosen it up The shrimp stay juiciest when reheated gently rather than in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in fresh thyme if you are out of rosemary for a slightly softer herby flavor You can use half and half instead of heavy cream but be careful not to let it boil or it may split For a dairy free version try plain oat or cashew cream and use plant based broth

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta alongside a crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette For a heartier meal add roasted vegetables or a warm loaf of crusty Italian bread It is lovely paired with a glass of chilled white wine like Vermentino or Sauvignon Blanc for a Mediterranean mood

Cultural and Seasonal Notes

This recipe captures the heart of Mediterranean coast cooking—simple seafood plenty of herbs and no heavy sauces Fresh rosemary is easiest to find in late spring through fall but you can pair it with parsley or a hint of lemon for brightness in winter

Seasonal Adaptations

Top with ribbons of zucchini in summer Stir in roasted cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness Add a dusting of chili flakes for gentle heat in colder months

Success Stories

Friends have declared this their new favorite pasta after trying it at my table My teens even request it on their birthdays which is the highest home cook praise I can imagine The blend of flavors is just surprising enough for guests but totally doable on a weekday

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can freeze the cooked pasta and shrimp together in an airtight container for up to one month Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently with a little extra cream or broth to bring it back to its silky texture Add a pinch more fresh rosemary after reheating for a boost of fragrance

This pasta is wonderful any night and brings Mediterranean comfort to your table in just half an hour. Enjoy every fragrant bite and make it your new favorite weeknight meal.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How can I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Sauté shrimp just until pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them tough, so watch closely and remove from heat promptly.

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne works well, but feel free to use spaghetti, linguine, or fusilli for a similar result.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter sauce, but texture and richness may vary slightly.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain shrimp tenderness.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Pair with a crisp salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy pasta.

→ Are there allergen concerns?

This dish contains shellfish, dairy, and wheat. Check ingredients and consider alternatives as needed.