Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 250 g (9 oz) spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

For the Shrimp & Sauce

• 400 g (14 oz) raw shrimp, peeled & deveined (medium or large size)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

• ½ cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra depth)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

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

3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Sauté the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter.

2. Add shrimp in a single layer, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.

3. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

4. Reduce heat to low and gradually add mozzarella (and parmesan if using), stirring until melted and smooth.

4️⃣ Combine Everything

1. Return shrimp to the skillet.

2. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.

3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

5️⃣ Serve & Garnish

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

• Serve hot with crusty garlic bread or a green salad.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for more color and flavor.

• Cheese Choice: Use a low-moisture mozzarella to avoid a stringy sauce, or mix in provolone for a sharper note.

• Seafood Swap: This works beautifully with scallops or chunks of salmon instead of shrimp.