When you’re craving something rich, garlicky, and packed with bold Louisiana flavors, this recipe for Creole Garlic Noodles with Shrimp from Louisiana Cookin is the dish that delivers on all fronts. This recipe brings together the depth of savory seafood with the creamy richness of garlic butter noodles, elevated by a kick of Creole seasoning. Whether you’re serving it for a special family dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, this dish offers a fusion of Asian and Southern coastal cuisines that’s both comforting and exciting.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of shell- and head-on shrimp
• 1 pound of spaghetti
• ½ cup minced fresh garlic
• 2 lemons, cut into wedges
• ⅓ cup sliced green onions
• 8 ounces unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 to 2 cups pasta water
• 1 tablespoon of your favorite Creole seasoning
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter with your favorite Creole seasoning until fully mixed. Set it aside to infuse.
2. Using kitchen shears, snip off the front half of the shrimp’s head just past the eyes. Then, with a serrated knife, carefully cut along the back of each shrimp through the shell, being mindful not to slice all the way through the legs. Open the shrimp up butterfly-style, clean out the vein, and arrange them on a baking tray.
3. Spoon a small amount of Creole butter over each prepared shrimp. Place the tray in the refrigerator to chill until you’re nearly ready to broil them. Meanwhile, preheat your oven broiler to high.
4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, season it generously with salt, and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve at least 2 cups of the starchy pasta water before draining. If you’re using fresh pasta, wait to cook it until your sauce is nearly done.
5. In a wide skillet or sauté pan, melt ¼ cup of Creole butter along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to brown, usually about 4 minutes.
6. Stir in about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water, followed by the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and black pepper. Mix well to incorporate. Add the drained pasta and stir thoroughly. Gradually add more pasta water, a little at a time, stirring constantly until the sauce coats the noodles and reaches a luscious, glossy consistency.
7. While the noodles are finishing, remove the shrimp from the fridge and place the tray under the broiler on the top rack. Broil for 2–3 minutes, just long enough to caramelize the butter and lightly char the shrimp for maximum flavor.
8.  Plate your garlic noodles, then top each serving with a few broiled shrimp. Garnish with sliced green onions and a generous squeeze of lemon juice from fresh wedges.

 Perfect Pairings: What to Serve on the Side

To round out this flavor-packed meal, consider serving it with:

• Garlic Bread or French Bread: Ideal for mopping up any leftover sauce.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Add a dash of Cajun seasoning for a complementary smoky-sweet side.
• Simple Arugula or Mixed Greens Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the noodles.
• Roasted Asparagus or Green Beans: Lightly seasoned vegetables offer contrast and crunch.
• Fried Plantains or Sweet Potato Fries: For a fun, sweet-savory twist that pairs well with the Creole spices.

Creole Garlic Noodles with Shrimp is one of those rare dishes that manages to be both elegant and hearty. It’s indulgent without being fussy, spicy without overwhelming the palate, and familiar yet fresh. The combination of umami-packed sauces, roasted shrimp, and aromatic garlic will satisfy any seafood or noodle lover. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour, making it a practical choice for weeknight dinners or special weekend meals.

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