Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta

Savor the rich flavors of Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta, a zesty, creamy, and perfectly balanced dish that’s ideal for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender shrimp with a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta and fresh dill to create a meal bursting with bright, comforting flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing flavor.
• Bright and Creamy: The balance of tangy lemon and smooth cream elevates the shrimp and pasta beautifully.
• Nutritious and Light: Shrimp is low in calories but packed with protein, paired with fresh herbs that add nutritional value.
• Versatile Meal: Works equally well for casual dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients you might already have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting layers of flavor, texture, and appeal. From succulent shrimp to fresh dill, every element brings something special to the dish.

• Shrimp: Fresh or thawed medium shrimp work perfectly for a tender, juicy bite.
• Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine are ideal for holding that creamy sauce well.
• Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest add a bright, refreshing acidity.
• Dill: Fresh dill provides a delicate herbal note that complements the seafood.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the rich, silky base of the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a mild spicy kick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the creaminess with a nutty, savory touch.
• Butter and Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and to enrich the sauce texture.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the dish’s flavors.

Variations for Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta

Feel free to customize this Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta to suit your preferences or dietary needs. It’s super easy to adapt with simple swaps or additions to keep the recipe exciting and tailored to your taste.

• Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free noodles or spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Protein Switch: Use scallops or chicken breast instead of shrimp for variety.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to boost nutrition and color.
• Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add peeled and deveined shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Dill Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and stir in freshly grated lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh dill. Let the sauce gently simmer to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat well. Return the shrimp to the pan, add grated Parmesan cheese, and stir everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra dill, lemon slices, or Parmesan for an eye-catching finish.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove from heat as soon as it turns pink to avoid rubbery texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It’s perfect for thinning the sauce and helping it cling to pasta.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Always use fresh dill for that bright, vibrant flavor—not dried.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust lemon and salt gradually to maintain harmony in acidity and seasoning.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

Top with fresh dill sprigs, thin lemon slices, and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to add visual appeal and extra bursts of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls for an inviting look. Add a drizzle of olive oil and crack black pepper on top just before serving to up the gourmet feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This dish doesn’t freeze well because of the cream sauce, which can separate; it’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for short-term use.

Reheating

Rewarm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely without steaming.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it works well for meal prep if you store the pasta and shrimp separately, reheating gently to keep textures intact.

What pasta types work best?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are great choices because their shapes hold the creamy lemon dill sauce beautifully.

How do I make the dish dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or your favorite non-dairy cream substitute and swap out Parmesan for dairy-free alternatives or nutritional yeast.

Can I make this spicy?

Definitely! Add red pepper flakes during the sauce step or serve with a side of hot sauce for a little heat contrast.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about the bright, creamy flavors in this Creamy Lemon Dill Shrimp Pasta. It’s an easy-to-make, elegant dish that feels special yet comes together quickly. Whether for a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy every luscious, zesty bite!

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