If you’re craving a dish that effortlessly combines rich, velvety textures with bright pops of freshness, then this Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Peas Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender shrimp sautéed to perfection, nestled in a luscious cheesy sauce that clings to each bite of delicate orecchiette pasta, all complemented by sweet green peas for a burst of color and subtle sweetness. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and elegance together in one satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this spectacular dish. Each one is simple but plays an essential role: the orecchiette pasta offers delightful bite and shape, shrimp bring a tender seafood flavor, while the creamy Gruyere cheese sauce wraps everything in warmth and indulgence. And those peas? They brighten every forkful with a fresh, sweet pop of green.
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta: Its cup-like shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully for every bite.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the shrimp to golden perfection.
- 1 ½ pounds medium or large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, providing sweet, tender seafood flavor.
- 4 tablespoons dry white wine: Infuses the shrimp with depth and a subtle acidity that balances the cream.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and enhances overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Adds just a hint of gentle heat to awaken the palate.
- ¼ cup flour: The thickening agent that transforms milk and cheese into a luxuriously creamy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors to life.
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred): Creates the smooth, velvety base for the sauce.
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese: Melts beautifully to give the sauce its signature creamy, nutty richness.
- 2 cups frozen green peas (thawed): Adds color, texture, and a touch of natural sweetness.
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Peas Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Getting that perfect texture is key, since you want the pasta to hold up beautifully under the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside, so it’s ready to absorb all those luscious flavors later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Toss in the shrimp and sauté them for about three minutes until they turn pink and tender. Then stir in the dry white wine, minced garlic, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, cooking just until the shrimp are fully done and infused with those bright, flavorful aromatics. Remove the shrimp and their cooking juices from the pan and set them aside – this liquid gold will build a wonderful base for the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Using the same pan, add the flour and salt, quickly toasting the flour for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial as it eliminates that raw flour taste while thickening the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook for about a minute until the sauce starts to thicken up. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese, letting it melt into a silky, cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now for the fun part: add the cooked pasta, reserved shrimp with their juices, and thawed peas right into the cheese sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is coated, and the shrimp and peas are evenly distributed. Give the pan a quick return to very low heat just to warm everything through and marry all those delicious flavors. Then, you’re ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Peas Recipe
Garnishes
To make your dish look as irresistible as it tastes, consider topping it with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. A light dusting of extra Gruyere or even some grated Parmesan adds another layer of cheese-soaked goodness right before serving.
Side Dishes
This creamy shrimp pasta stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls offer the perfect vehicle to scoop up any remaining sauce, making every bite a delight.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve the Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Peas Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with lemon zest or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick. Alternatively, layering the pasta in a beautiful serving dish garnished with pea shoots or edible flowers makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy shrimp pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it chilled promptly after serving to maintain freshness and prevent shrimp spoilage.
Freezing
Because dairy-based sauces can separate when frozen, the Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Peas Recipe is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you must freeze, separate the pasta and sauce from the shrimp and peas to avoid texture loss and freeze them individually. Use within one month for best quality.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stove, stirring often to re-emulsify the sauce. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is perfect because of its shape and ability to hold sauce, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine will work wonderfully in this recipe.
What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?
If Gruyere is hard to find, Swiss cheese or mild cheddar are great alternatives that melt well and add a pleasant cheesy richness.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk, along with vegan cheese substitutes to keep it creamy and delicious.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Shrimp cook very quickly—usually 3 to 4 minutes total. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque for the best texture and flavor.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and sauté the shrimp in advance, but it’s best to combine everything and finish with the cheese sauce right before serving to maintain that fresh, creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Peas Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something absolutely unforgettable. It’s warm, satisfying, and elegant enough for a special occasion yet easy enough for a weeknight meal. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find a new favorite that brings everyone to your table with smiles and happy hearts.
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Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Peas Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A rich and comforting creamy shrimp pasta with peas, featuring tender sautéed shrimp in a velvety Gruyere cheese sauce served over orecchiette pasta. This easy skillet dish combines the delicate flavors of garlic, white wine, and peas for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta (cooked)
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ pounds medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 2 cups frozen green peas, thawed
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to turn pink. Then stir in the dry white wine, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper. Continue cooking until the shrimp are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp and any juices from the pan and set aside.
- Create Roux and Sauce: In the same skillet, add the flour and salt, cooking and stirring constantly for 30 seconds to toast the flour. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring the mixture to a boil, continuing to whisk until it slightly thickens (approximately 1 minute). Remove from heat.
- Add Cheese: Stir the shredded Gruyere cheese into the hot milk mixture until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, reserved shrimp and juices, and thawed peas to the cheese sauce. Toss everything well to combine evenly.
- Heat Through: Return the skillet to low heat and cook just until the entire mixture is heated through and the peas are tender. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy shrimp pasta.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Gruyere cheese adds a nutty flavor; substitute with similar melting cheese if unavailable.
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce, but 2% milk can be substituted for a lighter option.
- Thaw peas before adding to ensure even cooking and texture.
- Serve immediately as the sauce thickens upon standing.
