15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp
If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp is the perfect dish to whip up on a busy weeknight. With succulent shrimp, a creamy tomato sauce, and a hint of garlic, this meal is as comforting as it is delicious. Pair it with linguine or any pasta you have on hand, and you have a feast ready in no time!
What Sets This Recipe Apart

Imagine a dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the freshness of tomatoes, all while being ready in just 15 minutes! This 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. The creamy sauce envelops the shrimp perfectly, making each bite a luxurious experience. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.
The Essentials
To create this wonderful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 10 ounces linguini – or any pasta of your choice, providing a hearty base.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced – for a sweet and savory foundation.
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil – for sautéing and flavor.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced – to infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.
- 1 pound raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined – the star of the dish!
- 2 teaspoons dried basil – for an herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided – enhances the overall flavor.
- 3 cups passata or marinara sauce – the base of the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 chicken bouillon cube, crushed – or 1 teaspoon stock powder for added depth.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley – to brighten the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided – for a bit of heat.
- 1 pinch granulated sugar – to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 2/3 cup milk or half and half or heavy cream – for creaminess.
- 1 handful grated parmesan cheese – to serve, adding richness.
- 1 pinch fresh parsley – for garnish, enhancing visual appeal.
What’s in the Gear List
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following gear:
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta.
- Skillet or frying pan – for sautéing and combining the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
- Colander – for draining the pasta.
Make 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp: A Simple Method

Getting this 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp on your table is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step-by-step:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the raw jumbo shrimp to the skillet, along with 2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour in the 3 cups of passata or marinara sauce, along with the crushed chicken bouillon cube and a pinch of granulated sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the 2/3 cup of milk, half and half, or heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with remaining salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the drained linguini to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Finally, remove from heat.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out the creamy tomato garlic butter shrimp onto plates, and top with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or need to make some adjustments, consider these swaps:
- Pasta: Use any pasta shape, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
- Butter: Substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Shrimp: Chicken or tofu can be used as alternatives for protein.
- Passata or Marinara Sauce: Homemade tomato sauce or even store-bought pesto can work in a pinch.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you run into any hiccups while making this dish, here are some helpful tips:
- Too thick sauce: If the sauce is thicker than desired, simply add a splash of pasta water or more cream to thin it out.
- Shrimp overcooked: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Cook until just pink and opaque.
- Flavor lacking: Adjust seasoning with more salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
- Freeze: Freezing is not recommended for this dish due to the cream, which can separate when thawed.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
What can I serve with this dish?
This 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Definitely! Substitute the shrimp with your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer some heat!
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you enjoyed making this 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp, try these other quick and delicious recipes:
- Quick Chicken Stir-Fry – A colorful and healthy option.
- 30-Minute Beef Tacos – Perfect for taco night!
- Easy Vegetable Fried Rice – A great way to use up leftovers!
- Speedy Pesto Pasta – Fresh, vibrant, and ready in a flash.
Time to Try It
Now that you have the perfect recipe for 15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is sure to impress your family or guests while keeping your weeknight cooking stress-free. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade meal made in a snap!

15-Minute Creamy Tomato Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the raw jumbo shrimp to the skillet, along with 2 teaspoons of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Pour in the 3 cups of passata or marinara sauce, along with the crushed chicken bouillon cube and a pinch of granulated sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the 2/3 cup of milk, half and half, or heavy cream to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce is well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with remaining salt and pepper if necessary.
- Add the drained linguini to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Finally, remove from heat.
- Dish out the creamy tomato garlic butter shrimp onto plates, and top with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!
Notes
- Feel free to substitute any pasta shape you have on hand.
- For a lighter option, use olive oil instead of butter.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
