Want an easy dinner recipe that will impress your family and friends? Try this creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta! It combines tender shrimp with a rich, velvety sauce that sticks to every pasta piece. With a 4.74 out of 5 rating from 669 votes, it’s clear why it’s a hit.
This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make. You can prepare and cook it in about an hour, with 30 minutes for each step. So, get your ingredients ready and let’s create a meal that will wow everyone!
An Introduction to Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta
If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together, try Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta. It’s quick to make and has a *creamy Alfredo sauce* that will make your taste buds dance. This meal is a family favorite because of its rich flavors.
What Makes This Dish a Family Favorite?
This dish combines sun-dried tomatoes and basil for a burst of flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a zing that makes the meal unforgettable. Kids and adults both love it, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Why Choose Shrimp Pasta for Dinner?
Shrimp is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. A 3-ounce serving has only 84 calories and is full of vitamins and minerals. It’s also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and iodine, which are good for your brain. Plus, it cooks in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick dinners. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Creating a dish like creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta starts with the right ingredients. This mix is perfect for any taste, thanks to key items that make your meal special. Let’s explore what you’ll need for a dish that will wow your guests!
Core Ingredients You Need
For this creamy treat, you’ll need:
- 8 oz of penne pasta, or your favorite type, cooked until al dente.
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined, ready to absorb flavors.
- 4 oz of sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil for extra taste.
- 7 cloves of minced garlic for that aromatic touch.
- 1 cup of half and half and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for the creamy sauce.
- Red pepper flakes and salt for a bit of heat and flavor.
This recipe serves 8, ideal for family dinners or meal prep. It’s quick to prepare, taking about 20 minutes, making it perfect for any day.
Substitutions and Variations for Your Recipe
Not everyone has the same dietary needs, so here are some substitutions:
- Swap penne for gluten-free pasta like quinoa or brown rice.
- Try using chicken or scallops instead of shrimp for a new flavor.
- For the sauce, use half and half for a lighter version, or make your own Alfredo sauce.
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes instead of sun-dried for a lighter taste.
- Seafood stock can replace dry white wine in the sauce for an alcohol-free option.
Remember these substitutions to make your dish better and suit different tastes. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious meal.
How to Cook Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta
Ready to explore the tasty world of Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta? It’s easy and fun to learn how to cook shrimp pasta. Let’s go through the steps to make sure your dish is perfect!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by boiling water in a big pot and add 8 oz of penne pasta (or gluten-free brown rice pasta, if you prefer). Cook it until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes. While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and cook until it smells great.
Then, put a pound of shrimp in the skillet and cook until they turn pink and golden, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, or they’ll be tough.
After the shrimp are cooked, mix in 1 cup of half and half, 4 oz of sun-dried tomatoes, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Let it simmer on low heat, so the flavors blend well.
Put the drained pasta with the sauce together before serving. Add some pasta water if you want it creamier. Your delicious shrimp pasta is now ready to enjoy, perfect for any dinner!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
To prevent overcooking shrimp, watch for when they turn pink. Take them off the heat when they’re pink but still slightly tender. Aim for a cooking time of about 3-4 minutes for the best taste. Combine the pasta and sauce over low heat to get that creamy texture everyone loves. This dish has about 632 calories per serving, making it a great choice for a family meal.
Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta: Serving and Pairing Ideas
Your Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta is ready to impress. The right side dishes can take your meal to the next level. Consider these options to enhance your dish:
Best Sides to Accompany Your Pasta
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread pairs well and absorbs the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and tangy dressing complements the pasta’s richness.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Seasonal veggies sautéed in olive oil add color and nutrients to your meal.
How to Garnish for Extra Flavor
Garnishing your shrimp pasta adds flavor and looks. Here are some tips to impress your guests:
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley for freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan adds a savory finish.
With these serving ideas and garnishing tips, your Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta will impress. Create a memorable meal your family will love!
Each serving offers about 371 calories, with 41g of carbs, 22g of protein, and 13g of fat. It’s a balanced and tasty choice. You might want to share it with friends, as it’s easy to see how six servings can be enjoyed.
| Nutrition Fact | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Calories | 371 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 41 g |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 107 mg |
| Sodium | 659 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
With these tips, your next dinner will be a hit! Let your creativity in the kitchen shine!
Make every meal a memorable occasion.
Conclusion
Your journey into creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta ends with a warm, flavorful experience. This dish is perfect for easy dinners that everyone will love. It takes only 20 minutes to make and serves four, making it great for busy weeknights.
The dish has a high rating from happy cooks, showing its popularity. It’s also a nutritious choice for those watching what they eat. Feel free to add bacon or sautéed veggies to make it your own.
Don’t wait to try this creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta for your next family dinner. It will turn a regular night into a special meal. Let the garlic and cream flavors make your evenings memorable.
FAQ
What is the standout flavor of Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta?
The dish shines with its rich Alfredo sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of basil. Together, they create a taste that everyone loves.
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap regular penne for gluten-free options like chickpea or brown rice pasta. You won’t lose the creamy flavor.
How do I ensure my shrimp are not overcooked?
Cook your shrimp until they turn pink and golden. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
Substitute with chicken or scallops if you prefer. Just make sure to cook them until they’re perfectly done.
What sides pair well with Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta?
Great sides include garlic bread for crunch, a fresh salad for balance, or sautéed veggies for color.
Can I make the creamy sauce from scratch?
Yes! You can make your own Alfredo sauce. Mix butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan for a homemade twist.
How can I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat over low heat, adding half-and-half or water if it’s too thick.
Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them before mixing with the pasta.
Creamy Mozzarella Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta or gluten-free pasta
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
- 7 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of water and cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook until pink and golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add half and half, sun-dried tomatoes, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir and let it simmer on low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If needed, add a bit of pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Season: Adjust seasoning with red pepper flakes and salt to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, additional red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
