This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Creamy Spaghetti Garlic Cheese Sauce is a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender, juicy shrimp are sautéed in rich garlic butter, then tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti coated in a silky Parmesan and mozzarella cream sauce. Every bite is packed with buttery garlic flavor, melted cheese, and a hint of Italian herbs, making this an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

For the Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the salt, then stir in the spaghetti. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Before draining, carefully reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the consistency of the sauce later. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help them sear properly.

Season the shrimp evenly with the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, tossing gently so every piece is well coated.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and lightly bubbling.

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and lightly golden around the edges.

During the final 30 seconds of cooking, add the minced garlic and stir continuously until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Transfer the shrimp to a clean plate and keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Cheese Sauce

Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter.

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, but do not allow it to boil.

Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, followed by the shredded mozzarella. Stir continuously until both cheeses have melted completely and the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and velvety.

Mix in the Italian seasoning and, if desired, the red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.

Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce.

Using tongs, gently toss the pasta until every strand is evenly coated. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add a little of the reserved pasta water, tossing until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently fold them into the creamy pasta.

Let everything cook together for 1–2 minutes, allowing the shrimp to warm through and absorb the rich garlic cheese sauce.

Sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley and finish with an extra handful of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Pair it with warm garlic bread, buttery dinner rolls, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad for a complete and satisfying meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving adds a bright, refreshing finish that complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Tips for Success

  • Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to achieve a better golden sear.
  • Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery in just a few extra minutes.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese and gives the sauce a richer flavor.
  • Reserve the pasta water before draining—it helps create a silky, restaurant-style sauce that clings perfectly to the spaghetti.
  • Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than a boil to prevent the cream from separating.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency