If you have a soft spot for rich, comforting dishes that come together with ease, this Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It marries succulent shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious, cheesy cream sauce with tender fettuccine pasta, delivering layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish feels indulgent without being complicated. The balance of spices and creamy sauce makes every forkful a joy, inviting you to savor that homemade magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round silver pan filled with a single layer of cooked shrimp scattered evenly across the surface. The shrimp are orange-pink with dark grill marks and small bits of brown and black garlic or seasoning on and around them. The pan shows light oil sheen and some browned bits stuck to the bottom. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the sauce’s silkiness, adding bursts of flavor, or contributing that satisfying texture. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh elements, you’ll have everything ready to create a memorable meal.

8 oz fettuccine pasta: Choose your favorite type, or go gluten free with brown rice pasta for a great alternative without sacrificing texture.
½ cup cooked pasta water (optional): A secret weapon to loosen the sauce and help it cling perfectly to the pasta.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and is the perfect base for sautéing shrimp and mushrooms.
1 lb shrimp (shells removed, deveined): Fresh or thawed, shrimp bring a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with warmth and that irresistible aroma you’ll love.
¼ teaspoon dried basil: Gives a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the overall flavor.
¼ teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and a pop of color to the sauce.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to keep things interesting without overpowering the creaminess.
8 oz mushrooms, thinly sliced: Earthy and tender, mushrooms add a lovely meaty texture that complements the shrimp.
1 cup half and half: The creamy base that makes this pasta irresistibly rich and silky.
½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: Sharp and nutty, Parmesan melts into the sauce for depth and savory goodness.
½ cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded: Brings gooey, melty creaminess that makes the dish extra comforting.

How to Make Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until just al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as this starchy water will be a fantastic ingredient to help your sauce cling to the pasta beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp seasoned with a pinch of salt, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.

Step 3: Cook Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté until they’re golden and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant — about 30 seconds — so it doesn’t burn but infuses the mushrooms with flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the half and half, stirring to combine. Add the dried basil and a touch more salt to season. Let the cream mixture warm up gently, then stir in both the Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely, creating a rich, velvety sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, and add the cooked pasta. If the sauce feels a bit thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Toss everything together carefully to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly with the luscious cream sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms Recipe

A metal pan filled with a creamy sauce that has a light beige color with small black specks throughout. Floating in the sauce are several orange shrimp, each with a slightly curved shape and a firm texture. Mixed in are sliced mushrooms, showing a soft brown and light beige color, scattered evenly around the shrimp. Small pieces of green herbs are sprinkled over the surface, adding color contrast. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Just before serving, sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a splash of color and a fresh herbal kick. A little extra grated Parmesan doesn’t hurt either, adding a lovely salty contrast to the creamy pasta.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is rich and hearty on its own, light and crisp sides are the best partners. Try a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of flair, serve the pasta in large shallow bowls to showcase the shrimp and mushrooms. Drizzle a bit of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top for brightness. You could even add a pinch of smoked paprika or red chili flakes right before serving to highlight the warmth and spice of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The shrimp and creamy sauce can thicken a bit during storage, but we’ll cover how to freshen it up when reheating.

Freezing

This Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can alter the texture of the creamy sauce and shrimp. If you must freeze it, pack tightly in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Rewarm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk, half and half, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure the shrimp stay tender and the sauce regains its creamy consistency without separating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for this recipe, penne, linguine, or even a gluten-free pasta work well. Just be mindful of the cooking times to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap out the half and half for a coconut milk or cashew cream alternative. For cheeses, look for vegan versions or simply omit and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook the shrimp separately and remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Adding them back at the end helps avoid rubbery texture and keeps them perfectly tender.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers would all be delicious additions. Just add them in during the mushroom sauté step or right before finishing the sauce.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer it a little longer uncovered to reduce and thicken naturally. You can also stir in a tiny bit of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) for extra thickness without affecting flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Shrimp Pasta with Mushrooms Recipe is a true winner when you want something comforting but effortlessly elegant. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out and impresses everyone at the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to for those special dinners or cozy nights in.