Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

There is something deeply comforting about a skillet of Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta coming together on the stove. The moment garlic begins to soften in olive oil and butter, the whole kitchen changes, as if dinner has already started telling its own story.

This is the kind of dish that feels special without asking too much from you. It has tender shrimp, silky pasta, a creamy garlic sauce, a bright touch of lemon, and enough richness from butter and cheese to make every bite feel warm and satisfying.

For me, this recipe carries the feeling of Sunday dinners, the kind where everyone slowly gathers near the kitchen because the smell alone is enough to pull people in. It reminds me of a table full of conversation, simple plates, and that quiet happiness that happens when food tastes like it was made with care.

Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta has that beautiful balance between elegance and comfort. It feels like something you could serve to guests, but it is still easy enough to make on a weeknight when you want dinner to feel a little more meaningful.

The shrimp cook quickly and stay juicy when handled gently. The pasta catches the creamy sauce, while the garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Parmesan, mozzarella, and parsley bring layers of flavor that feel rich but not flat.

This is also a wonderfully flexible recipe. You can make it with spaghetti or linguine, use dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth, and adjust the crushed red chili flakes depending on how much heat you enjoy.

What Is Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta?

Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta is a rich, comforting pasta dish made with large shrimp, garlic, olive oil, butter, lemon, cheese, and pasta. It takes the classic garlic-butter spirit of shrimp scampi and gives it a creamier, cozier finish with mozzarella and Parmesan.

The dish begins with pasta cooked until al dente. While the noodles cook, shrimp are sautéed with garlic, butter, olive oil, seasoning, and a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth.

The sauce becomes creamy from shredded low-moisture mozzarella and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Lemon juice and lemon zest keep the dish bright, while parsley adds freshness at the end.

It is quick enough for a busy evening but beautiful enough for family dinners, celebrations, or guests. That is why it fits so naturally into both everyday cooking and special occasions.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 people

This pasta is rich, garlicky, creamy, and bright all at once. It comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a practical dinner that still feels full of comfort and care.

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

It Comes Together Quickly

This recipe only needs 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. That means you can have a warm, satisfying pasta dinner on the table in about 35 minutes.

It is ideal for weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The shrimp cook fast, the pasta is simple, and the sauce comes together right in the skillet.

It Uses Simple Ingredients

The ingredient list feels familiar and approachable. Pasta, shrimp, garlic, butter, olive oil, lemon, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper are all easy to work with.

Even though the ingredients are simple, the finished dish tastes layered and comforting. The garlic, butter, lemon, and cheese create a sauce that feels much more special than the effort required.

It Feels Elegant Without Being Complicated

Shrimp always brings a little elegance to the table. When paired with a creamy garlic sauce and pasta, it becomes a dish that looks and tastes impressive.

At the same time, the steps are straightforward enough for beginner cooks. You do not need complicated techniques to create something that feels restaurant-worthy at home.

It Is Perfect for Family Dinners or Guests

This pasta has the kind of flavor that makes people pause after the first bite. It is rich, savory, buttery, garlicky, and just bright enough from lemon.

Serve it for a cozy family dinner, and it will feel comforting. Serve it for guests, and it will feel thoughtful and impressive without adding stress to your day.

It Can Be Adjusted to Your Taste

You can use dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth. You can add crushed red chili flakes for heat or leave them out for a milder dish.

You can also add spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus if you want more color and texture. The base recipe is strong, but it leaves plenty of room for small personal touches.

It Has Make-Ahead Convenience

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you are ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything for a quicker meal.

This makes the recipe especially useful for busy days. It gives you the comfort of a fresh pasta dinner with less last-minute work.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta

12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine noodles

Choose whichever pasta shape you prefer between spaghetti and linguine. Both work beautifully because they hold the creamy garlic sauce well.

Butter

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, separated into two portions

The butter adds richness and helps create the signature scampi-style flavor. Using unsalted butter lets you better control the salt level in the finished dish.

Mozzarella

1 cup low-moisture mozzarella, shredded

Low-moisture mozzarella gives the sauce creaminess and a gentle stretch. It melts into the pasta and helps make the dish feel rich and comforting.

Wine or Broth

½ cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth

Dry white wine adds depth, while low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish savory and family-friendly. Use whichever option best fits your kitchen and your preference.

Olive Oil

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil gives the sauce flavor and helps cook the garlic and shrimp. A good-quality oil can make the finished pasta taste smoother and more rounded.

Garlic

5 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced

Fresh garlic is essential here because it builds the fragrant base of the dish. It gives the sauce warmth, depth, and that unmistakable scampi aroma.

Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, shells removed and deveined

Large shrimp are tender, sweet, and satisfying in this pasta. Make sure they are cleaned and ready before cooking so the skillet step moves quickly.

Red Chili Flakes

¼ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes, optional

This adds gentle heat and a little extra warmth. You can reduce it, increase it, or leave it out completely depending on your spice preference.

Black Pepper

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Black pepper adds subtle warmth and balances the creamy sauce. Freshly ground pepper gives the best flavor.

Parsley

¼ cup Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Fresh parsley brightens the pasta at the end. It also adds color, which makes the dish look more inviting.

Lemon Zest

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

Lemon zest adds a fresh citrus aroma without making the dish too sharp. It helps lift the richness of the butter and cheese.

Lemon Juice

2 tablespoons juice from one lemon, approximately

Fresh lemon juice brings brightness to the sauce. It balances the creamy, buttery flavor and keeps the pasta from feeling too heavy.

Parmesan Cheese

½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Parmesan adds salty, nutty depth to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother finish.

Kosher Salt

Kosher salt, to taste

Salt is important in both the pasta water and the sauce. Add it gradually and taste as you go so the flavors come together naturally.

Ingredient Spotlight: Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic is the soul of this Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta. It is the first big aroma that rises from the skillet, and it sets the tone for the entire dish.

When garlic is gently cooked in olive oil and butter, it becomes warm and fragrant. It gives the sauce a savory foundation that makes the shrimp, lemon, pasta, and cheese taste more complete.

The key is to cook the garlic carefully. You want it fragrant, not browned or burned, because burnt garlic can turn bitter and change the whole flavor of the pasta.

Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh garlic brings a stronger aroma and a more natural depth. In a simple dish like this, that difference matters.

Directions

Step 1: Gather Everything Before You Begin

Before turning on the stove, gather every ingredient and place it within reach. This includes the pasta, shrimp, butter, olive oil, garlic, wine or broth, lemon, cheeses, parsley, chili flakes, pepper, and salt.

Shrimp cooks quickly, and garlic can go from fragrant to burned faster than expected. Having everything ready helps you cook calmly and keeps the recipe smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Make sure the shrimp are peeled, deveined, and ready to cook. If they feel wet, gently pat them dry with paper towels.

Drying the shrimp helps them cook better in the skillet. Too much surface moisture can cause them to steam instead of sauté.

Step 3: Mince the Garlic

Finely mince 5 cloves of fresh garlic. The smaller pieces will distribute more evenly through the sauce.

Try not to leave the garlic in large chunks. Fine garlic gives you a more consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon

Finely grate 1 teaspoon of lemon zest from the lemon. Be careful to avoid grating too deeply into the bitter white pith.

After zesting, cut the lemon and squeeze about 2 tablespoons of fresh juice. Set both the zest and juice aside because they will be added at different moments.

Step 5: Chop the Parsley

Chop ¼ cup of Italian flat-leaf parsley. Keep it ready for the final garnish.

Parsley is added at the end because its fresh flavor is best when it is not cooked too long. It gives the creamy pasta a clean, bright finish.

Step 6: Bring a Large Pot of Salted Water to a Boil

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add enough kosher salt so the pasta has flavor from the inside out.

This step matters because pasta cooked in unsalted water can taste flat. The sauce is flavorful, but the noodles need seasoning too.

Step 7: Cook the Pasta Until Al Dente

Add 12 ounces of dried spaghetti or linguine to the boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally so the noodles do not stick together.

Aim for al dente pasta, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. This texture holds up better when tossed in the sauce.

Step 8: Reserve Pasta Water

Before draining the pasta, carefully reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is useful for loosening the sauce later.

Do not skip this step. Pasta water helps the sauce cling to the noodles and can rescue the dish if it becomes too thick.

Step 9: Drain the Pasta

Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside. You do not need to rinse it because the starch on the noodles helps the sauce hold.

If the sauce is not ready yet, let the pasta sit briefly. It will be tossed into the skillet soon, so it does not need any special handling.

Step 10: Start the Sauce Base

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.

Let the butter melt into the oil. This combination creates a flavorful cooking base for the garlic and shrimp.

Step 11: Cook the Garlic Gently

Add the finely minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it gently and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant.

Watch it closely and do not let it burn. The garlic should smell warm and savory, not sharp or bitter.

Step 12: Add the Shrimp

Add 1 pound of large shrimp to the skillet. Spread them out so they cook evenly.

Season with kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes if using. Stir gently so the shrimp pick up the garlic-butter flavor.

Step 13: Cook the Shrimp Just Until Pink

Cook the shrimp for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should turn pink and opaque.

Do not overcook them. Shrimp can become tough if they stay on the heat too long, so remove the guesswork by watching their color and texture.

Step 14: Add Wine or Chicken Broth

Pour in ½ cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth. Stir to combine it with the garlic, butter, olive oil, shrimp, and seasonings.

This liquid helps create the base of the sauce. It also picks up the flavor from the skillet and gives the pasta more depth.

Step 15: Add Fresh Lemon Juice

Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the skillet. Stir gently so the lemon blends into the sauce.

The lemon juice brightens the richness of the butter and cheese. It gives the pasta that classic scampi-inspired lift.

Step 16: Let the Sauce Simmer

Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes. This gives the flavors time to come together.

The sauce should smell garlicky, buttery, and lightly citrusy. Keep the heat controlled so it simmers gently instead of boiling aggressively.

Step 17: Add the Remaining Butter

Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt slowly into the sauce.

This second portion of butter gives the pasta a silkier finish. It also strengthens the rich, comforting flavor.

Step 18: Add Lemon Zest

Stir in 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest. This adds a fresh lemon fragrance that makes the sauce taste brighter.

Lemon zest is powerful, so a small amount goes a long way. It should support the sauce, not overpower it.

Step 19: Add the Mozzarella

Sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded low-moisture mozzarella. Stir gently as it melts into the sauce.

The mozzarella adds creaminess and a soft, stretchy texture. Keep the heat gentle so the cheese melts smoothly.

Step 20: Add the Parmesan

Add ½ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts and blends into the sauce.

Freshly grated Parmesan works best because it melts more easily. It gives the sauce a deeper, savory flavor.

Step 21: Check the Sauce Texture

At this point, the sauce should be creamy and rich. If it seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Add the pasta water gradually rather than all at once. This gives you control over the final consistency.

Step 22: Add the Pasta to the Skillet

Add the drained spaghetti or linguine directly into the skillet. Use tongs to toss the pasta gently with the shrimp and sauce.

Make sure the noodles are well coated. Every strand should pick up the garlic cream sauce.

Step 23: Adjust With More Pasta Water if Needed

If the pasta looks too thick or sticky, add a little more reserved pasta water. Toss again until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.

The goal is creamy pasta that moves easily in the pan. It should not feel dry, clumpy, or heavy.

Step 24: Taste and Season

Taste the pasta before serving. Add more kosher salt, black pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

This final tasting step matters because cheese, broth, pasta water, and shrimp can all affect the salt level. Adjust gently until the flavors feel balanced.

Step 25: Garnish With Parsley

Sprinkle the chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley over the pasta. Toss lightly or leave some on top for color.

Parsley adds freshness and makes the dish feel complete. It also brings a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.

Step 26: Serve Immediately

Serve the Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta hot. This dish is best when the sauce is creamy, the shrimp are tender, and the pasta is freshly tossed.

Add extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. A crisp green salad and garlic bread make the meal feel complete.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Do Not Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp only need a few minutes in the skillet. Once they turn pink and opaque, they are ready.

Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their tenderness. Keep a close eye on them, especially because they will stay warm in the sauce.

Use Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic gives this dish its best flavor. It creates the warm, fragrant base that makes the pasta so inviting.

Garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh garlic delivers a better aroma. Since garlic is such a central ingredient here, fresh is worth it.

Reserve Pasta Water

That cup of reserved pasta water is more useful than it seems. It helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the noodles.

If your sauce gets too thick after adding the cheese, pasta water brings it back to the right texture. Add it slowly until the sauce looks silky.

Use Freshly Grated Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated cheese. It also has a stronger, cleaner flavor.

Low-moisture mozzarella is important because it melts smoothly without making the sauce watery. Together, the cheeses make the pasta creamy and satisfying.

Keep the Garlic From Browning Too Much

Garlic should be cooked just until fragrant. If it browns too deeply, it can taste bitter.

Use medium heat and stir often. This keeps the sauce warm, savory, and balanced.

Variations

Lemon Pepper Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Add a pinch of lemon pepper for an extra citrusy flavor. This works especially well if you enjoy a brighter finish.

The lemon pepper builds on the lemon juice and zest already in the dish. It makes the pasta taste even fresher.

Shrimp Scampi With Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the skillet near the end of cooking. Let it wilt gently into the sauce before adding the pasta.

Spinach adds color, texture, and a gentle earthy flavor. It also makes the dish feel a little more complete.

Shrimp Scampi With Cherry Tomatoes

Add halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness and color. Let them soften slightly in the sauce.

The tomatoes bring a fresh burst that balances the creamy cheese. They also make the pasta look beautiful on the plate.

Scallop Scampi Cream Pasta

Swap the shrimp for scallops for a different seafood option. Cook them gently and avoid overcooking.

Scallops bring a delicate sweetness that pairs nicely with garlic, lemon, and butter. The dish will feel a little more elegant.

Chicken Garlic Cream Pasta

Use chicken instead of shrimp if you prefer. Cook the chicken until fully done before building the sauce.

Chicken gives the recipe a heartier feel. It is a good choice if you want a creamy garlic pasta without seafood.

Zucchini Noodle Version

For a lighter version, use zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta. Toss them gently in the sauce just until warmed.

This keeps the flavors of the dish while reducing the heaviness. Be careful not to overcook the zucchini noodles because they can release moisture.

Dairy-Free Version

For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute. The flavor will be different, but it can still be creamy and satisfying.

Coconut cream gives body, while nutritional yeast adds a savory note. Adjust lemon and seasoning to balance the sauce.

Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free pasta instead of spaghetti or linguine. Make sure to cook it according to package directions so it does not become mushy.

The sauce itself can still be rich and flavorful. The main change is simply choosing a suitable pasta.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta hot, right after tossing it in the skillet. This is when the sauce is at its creamiest and the shrimp are at their best texture.

Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. These finishing touches make the dish look fresh and inviting.

A crisp green salad pairs beautifully with the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread is also a wonderful side because it can soak up any extra sauce.

This dish works well for a cozy dinner at home. It also feels special enough for guests because the shrimp, lemon, garlic, and creamy sauce make it taste elegant.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the pasta cool before sealing it.

Creamy pasta can thicken as it sits. That is normal, and it can be loosened when reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

For best texture, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently so the shrimp do not become tough.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or reserved-style pasta water to restore creaminess.

You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be gentle. Heating too aggressively can make the shrimp overcook and the sauce separate.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and combine everything.

This helps save time without sacrificing texture. Freshly cooked pasta always gives the best final result.

Common Mistakes

Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook very quickly, usually in just 3 to 4 minutes. If they cook too long, they become tough.

Watch for them to turn pink and opaque. Once they reach that point, continue the recipe without letting them sit too long over high heat.

Burning the Garlic

Garlic is one of the most important flavors in this recipe. If it burns, the sauce can taste bitter.

Cook the garlic over medium heat and stir often. It should become fragrant, not dark brown.

Not Reserving Pasta Water

Reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce. Without it, the sauce may become too thick after the cheese melts.

Always save about 1 cup before draining the pasta. You may not need all of it, but having it ready gives you control.

Using Pre-Grated Cheese

Pre-grated cheese does not always melt as smoothly. It can make the sauce less creamy.

Freshly grated Parmesan gives better flavor and texture. Low-moisture mozzarella also helps keep the sauce smooth.

Forgetting to Taste Before Serving

The final flavor depends on your broth, cheese, shrimp, and pasta water. Taste before serving and adjust with salt, pepper, or lemon juice.

This small step makes the difference between a good pasta and a beautifully balanced one. Season slowly and carefully.

Helpful Notes

For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream. This will make the dish creamier and more indulgent.

If you want more texture, add sautéed mushrooms or asparagus. Both work well with garlic, lemon, and shrimp.

Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth if you prefer. It will change the flavor slightly but still provide a savory base.

If you enjoy more heat, increase the crushed red chili flakes. If cooking for a milder crowd, leave them out entirely.

Fresh lemon juice is best for this recipe. It gives the sauce a cleaner, brighter flavor than bottled juice.

If the pasta sits too long before serving, the sauce may tighten. Add a small splash of warm water or broth and toss again before plating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta Be Frozen?

Yes, this pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container before freezing.

When ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back the creamy texture.

Can I Substitute the White Wine?

Yes. Low-sodium chicken broth works very well in place of dry white wine.

The broth gives the sauce a savory flavor and keeps the recipe easy for anyone who prefers not to cook with wine. Use whichever option you enjoy most.

Can I Use a Different Pasta?

Yes. Spaghetti and linguine are both recommended, but you can use your favorite pasta type.

Choose a pasta that holds sauce well. Long noodles are especially nice because they catch the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.

Can I Use Chicken Instead of Shrimp?

Yes, chicken can be used instead of shrimp. Cook it fully before adding the sauce ingredients.

Chicken will make the dish heartier and a little less delicate. The garlic cream sauce still pairs beautifully with it.

Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and make sure any broth or other packaged ingredients are gluten-free.

The sauce can still be creamy and flavorful. Just be careful not to overcook gluten-free pasta, as it can soften quickly.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the pasta cool first to help maintain the best texture.

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth. This helps loosen the sauce and makes it creamy again.

Can the Recipe Be Made Ahead?

Yes. You can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.

Cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve. Then combine the pasta with the sauce and shrimp for the best texture.

What Can I Serve With This Pasta?

A crisp green salad is a wonderful side because it balances the richness. Garlic bread is also a natural pairing.

You can also serve it with simple vegetables. Spinach, asparagus, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can even be added directly to the pasta.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta is the kind of meal that makes a regular evening feel warmer. It has that special combination of ease and comfort that makes people come back for seconds.

The garlic gives the dish its soul. The butter and olive oil create richness, the lemon brings brightness, and the shrimp add a tender, sweet bite.

The mozzarella and Parmesan turn the sauce creamy and satisfying. The parsley at the end makes everything feel fresh, balanced, and ready to share.

What I love most about this recipe is how it fits into so many moments. It can be a quiet dinner after a long day, a Sunday meal with family, or a dish you serve when you want guests to feel cared for.

It does not ask for complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. It simply asks you to cook with attention, let the garlic bloom gently, keep the shrimp tender, and toss the pasta until every strand is coated in sauce.

I hope this Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta brings that same sense of warmth to your table. Serve it hot, gather the people you love, and enjoy the kind of meal that feels creamy, garlicky, bright, and deeply comforting from the very first bite.

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Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

This Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta is a rich, flavorful pasta dinner made with tender shrimp, fresh garlic, lemon, butter, white wine or chicken broth, mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs. The sauce is creamy, savory, lightly bright from lemon, and perfect for coating spaghetti or linguine.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Course: Dinner, Pasta
• Cuisine: Italian
• Servings: 4 people
• Calories: 600 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine noodles
  Creates the pasta base for the creamy shrimp scampi sauce.

For the Sauce

• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps finish the creamy sauce.
• 5 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  Gives the dish its bold garlic flavor and aroma.
• 1 pound large shrimp, shells removed and deveined
  Provides the tender seafood protein for the pasta.
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  Adds fresh citrus aroma and brightness.
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  Used to sauté the garlic and shrimp.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes, optional
  Adds a light spicy kick if desired.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, separated into two portions
  Adds richness and helps build the sauce in stages.
• ¼ cup Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  Adds freshness and color before serving.
• ½ cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
  Creates the savory liquid base for the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
  Adds gentle warmth and balances the creamy sauce.
• 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella, shredded
  Melts into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy texture.
• 2 tablespoons juice from one lemon, approximately
  Brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
• Kosher salt, to taste
  Seasons the shrimp, pasta, and sauce.

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
4. Add the finely minced garlic and cook just until fragrant.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet.
6. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red chili flakes if using.
7. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
8. Pour in the dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth.
9. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
10. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes so the flavors come together.
11. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, lemon zest, shredded mozzarella, and finely grated Parmesan cheese.
12. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy.
13. Add the drained pasta to the skillet.
14. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated in the shrimp garlic cream sauce.
15. Sprinkle with chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley before serving.
16. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

• Adjust the crushed red chili flakes depending on how spicy you want the pasta.
• Serve right away for the best creamy texture and fresh seafood flavor.
• Add extra Parmesan, parsley, or lemon juice before serving if desired.