If you love pasta that’s both comforting and elegant, this Spaghetti mit Garnelen in Frischkäsesauce (spaghetti with shrimp in fresh cheese sauce) is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The creamy sauce combines fresh cheese with garlic and herbs, complementing the tender shrimp perfectly.
This dish is great for a quick weeknight dinner but special enough to serve when guests come over. Once you try this creamy spaghetti shrimp sauce, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce made with fresh cheese for a smooth texture
- Quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes
- Uses simple, fresh ingredients you likely have on hand
- Perfectly balanced flavors of garlic, lemon, and herbs
- Versatile and crowd-pleasing for any occasion
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create the perfect creamy spaghetti shrimp sauce.
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 ounces fresh cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories (approx.): 480 per serving
How to Make Spaghetti mit Garnelen in Frischkäsesauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic but not browned.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the fresh cream cheese and chicken broth, whisking gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add lemon zest and lemon juice, then adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the sauce along with the drained spaghetti. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for brightness.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture; thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen it without losing creaminess.
- Softened cream cheese blends more easily; let it sit at room temperature before cooking.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish—add it last to keep its vibrant flavor intact.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti mit garnelen in frischkäsesauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp tender, consume leftovers soon after cooking.
When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving at high heat to maintain the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well as long as it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
Is cream cheese the same as fresh cheese?
Cream cheese is a type of fresh cheese with a smooth, creamy texture, making it ideal for creating rich sauces like this one.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt if you prefer a vegetarian option or don’t have broth on hand.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus pair wonderfully with the creamy shrimp sauce and add extra color and nutrition.