Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta is a rich, comforting, and ultra-satisfying dish that brings together tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a silky cheese sauce made with mozzarella and cream. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick but still indulgent, and it also works beautifully as a cozy weekend dinner. The mild, stretchy mozzarella pairs perfectly with juicy shrimp, creating a creamy pasta that feels both elegant and comforting without being complicated.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish
• ½ cup reserved pasta water

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. The cream should slightly thicken but remain smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Lower the heat and gradually add the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and allow everything to warm through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Variations

• Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
• Swap shrimp with chicken or scallops
• Use smoked mozzarella for deeper flavor
• Add mushrooms or broccoli for texture

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• Pair with a light green salad
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top
• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Conclusion

Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance, combining tender shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in one irresistible dish. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, making it a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.