Name: Ultimate Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine Recipe in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine; 1 cup reserved pasta water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 12 oz medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup basil pesto; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Pinch of red chili flakes; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for topping; Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Imagine twirling a forkful of silky linguine coated in a creamy pesto sauce, with plump, juicy shrimp nestled in every bite. Sounds heavenly, right? This ultimate creamy pesto shrimp linguine recipe is not only delicious but also comes together in just 30 minutes—all in one pot! If you’re a fan of quick yet indulgent meals, this recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner.

What makes this dish truly special is the combination of vibrant basil pesto, rich creaminess, and the perfectly cooked shrimp that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. It’s fancy enough for date night but easy enough to whip up after a long day. Plus, who doesn’t love fewer dishes to wash?

Recipe Story: A Dish Worth Sharing

Linguine with shrimp and pesto has always felt like a touch of elegance on the dinner table. I first fell in love with this dish during a cozy dinner at a seaside Italian restaurant, where the aroma of fresh pesto mingled with the salty air. It immediately transported me to a place of comfort and indulgence. Naturally, I had to recreate it at home, but with a simpler, one-pot twist.

Over time, I experimented with different pestos—classic basil, sun-dried tomato, and even arugula. While each version had its charm, I always returned to the traditional basil pesto for its unmistakable bold and herby flavor. This recipe is especially perfect during the summer when basil is abundant and shrimp feels like a refreshing protein option.

What’s also exciting is how this dish has evolved. Originally, I’d make the sauce separately, but combining everything in one pot felt like a revelation. The pasta absorbs the sauce as it cooks, making every bite more flavorful. And let’s face it, anything that saves time and dishes is a win!

Ingredient Discussion

Linguine

Linguine is the perfect pasta for this recipe because its flat shape holds onto the creamy pesto sauce beautifully. If you don’t have linguine, fettuccine or spaghetti can work as substitutes. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or chickpea linguine.

Shrimp

Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well here. Look for shrimp that’s peeled and deveined to save prep time. I prefer medium-sized shrimp (about 31-40 count per pound) as they cook evenly and fit nicely with the pasta. If you’re avoiding shellfish, chicken or tofu are great alternatives.

Basil Pesto

Homemade pesto always wins for flavor, but store-bought works when you’re in a pinch. Look for one with fresh ingredients like olive oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spinach pesto or mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk could work (though it will slightly alter the flavor). To make it dairy-free, use cashew cream—it’s surprisingly creamy and delicious!

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for its nutty, salty flavor. Avoid the pre-shredded kind, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly. For a vegetarian version, use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute.

Seasonings

Garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red chili flakes bring everything together. Don’t skip the chili flakes—they add just the right touch of heat to balance the creaminess.

Equipment Needed

Large pot: This is your one-pot wonder! Make sure it’s big enough to cook the pasta and hold the sauce.
Colander: For draining the pasta.
Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta and shrimp evenly in the sauce.
Microplane grater: For freshly grating Parmesan.

If you don’t have a microplane, a box grater works just fine. And while a large skillet can substitute for the pot in a pinch, you may need to adjust the pasta cooking method slightly.

Preparation Method

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 oz of linguine according to package instructions, reducing the cooking time by 1 minute for al dente texture. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add 12 oz of medium shrimp (peeled and deveined) to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pot and set aside.
Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in 1/2 cup of basil pesto, mixing until combined. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes to taste.
Return the cooked linguine to the pot. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy pesto sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the pot. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately. Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cooking the shrimp separately ensures they don’t overcook or become rubbery. Trust me, I’ve made that mistake before!

When adding the pasta water, go slow—it’s easy to overdo it. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully, but too much can thin it out.

If your pesto tastes slightly bitter, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of honey to balance the flavors. And for the creamiest sauce, don’t let the cream boil—gentle heat is key.

Variations & Adaptations

Vegetarian: Swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes.
Low-carb: Replace the linguine with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Extra protein: Add cooked chicken breast or crispy pancetta to the mix.

If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for added crunch. I also love adding a dollop of ricotta for extra creaminess—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, straight out of the pot. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk before warming on the stovetop to revive the creamy texture.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 550
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 25g

Shrimp is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while basil pesto offers healthy fats from olive oil and nuts. If you’re watching your carb intake, opt for vegetable noodles to lighten things up!

Conclusion

This ultimate creamy pesto shrimp linguine is the perfect combination of indulgent and effortless. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a fancy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences—just customize it to your liking!

I love making this recipe because it reminds me of that seaside dinner, but it’s even better knowing I can whip it up in just 30 minutes. Give it a try, and let me know your favorite variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Linguine is ideal, but fettuccine or spaghetti are great alternatives.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and a vegan pesto and Parmesan substitute.

How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque—usually 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them from the heat promptly.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this creamy linguine.

Ultimate Creamy Pesto Shrimp Linguine Recipe in 30 Minutes