Description
Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne pasta
Salt, for boiling water
For the Creamy Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Bread (Optional):
4 slices of French or Italian bread
2 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water gradually for a thinner sauce, if needed.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional).
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked penne pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
Stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning as desired.
Step 5: Prepare Garlic Bread (Optional)
Spread butter and minced garlic on slices of bread.
Toast on a skillet or broil in the oven until golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate the creamy shrimp penne pasta with a slice of garlic bread on the side.
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, parsley, and freshly cracked pepper.
Bon appétit!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results. First, start boiling your salted pasta water. While it heats, prep all ingredients: mince garlic, dice tomatoes, chop parsley, and grate Parmesan. As the pasta cooks, begin sautéing the shrimp. The key is to remove the shrimp just as they turn opaque to prevent overcooking. When building the sauce, let the cream simmer gently before adding the cheese to prevent separation. Finally, combine everything off the heat, using the reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the penne.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a heartier meal, add steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli. The optional garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For wine pairings, choose a crisp Pinot Grigio or a buttery Chardonnay.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook penne al dente, reserving pasta water. Sauté shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, make a sauce by cooking garlic and tomatoes, then simmering with cream and Parmesan. Toss drained pasta and shrimp in the sauce, thinning with pasta water as needed. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw completely in the refrigerator and pat very dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the sauce will be less thick. You can also use less Parmesan.
What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer a bit longer to reduce, or add a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water.
Can I add other proteins? Absolutely. Diced chicken or scallops work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp: They cook quickly and become rubbery if left in the pan too long.
- Adding cheese to boiling cream: This can cause the sauce to break. Remove the pan from heat or ensure it’s at a very low simmer before stirring in Parmesan.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy water is crucial for helping the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated is best.
Conclusion
This Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that is deceptively simple to make at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a luxurious, comforting meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The balance of succulent shrimp, rich sauce, and al dente pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!