Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta

Juicy shrimp tossed with tender pasta in a rich, creamy garlic sauce loaded with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. This comforting restaurant-style dinner comes together quickly and is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

🍤 Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta, such as linguine, fettuccine, or penne
• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.

Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water.

Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Season the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the shrimp in a single layer.

Cook for approximately 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.

Transfer the shrimp to a plate.

Avoid overcooking them, as they can become rubbery.

4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium.

Add the remaining butter to the same skillet.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds, until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low.

Gradually stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella.

Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Add red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

6. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce.

Toss gently until thoroughly coated.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently mix everything together.

Cook for another 1–2 minutes, just until heated through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan.

Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy.

⭐ Tips for the Creamiest Pasta

• Use freshly grated Parmesan because it melts more smoothly.
• Keep the heat low after adding the cheese to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy.
• Reserve pasta water—it can loosen and smooth the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp.
• Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
• For extra garlic flavor, add another clove or two.

🌶️ Optional Additions

Make it your own with:

• Spinach
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Mushrooms
• Broccoli
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil
• Extra red pepper flakes
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with:

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted asparagus
• Steamed broccoli
• Fresh green salad

⏱️ Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Method: Stovetop
Difficulty: Easy