Description
Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta
Ingredients
:
For the Pasta:
300g Penne Pasta
Salt (for boiling water)
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tbsp Olive Oil
2 tbsp Butter
3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
1/2 cup Bell Peppers (red and yellow, sliced)
1/4 cup Dry White Wine
(optional)
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
For the Shrimp:
300g Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tsp Paprika
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Optional Side:
Garlic Bread
Instructions
:
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp:
Toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add sliced bell peppers and cook until softened. If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Make it Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
Serve and Garnish:
Plate the creamy shrimp penne pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Pair with warm garlic bread for the ultimate meal!
A Comforting Classic!
This creamy shrimp penne pasta is rich, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy date night at home. Pair with a glass of white wine for the perfect finishing touch!
Bon Appétit!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results every time. First, prep all ingredients before heating any pans. This “mise en place” is crucial. Begin boiling your salted pasta water. As it heats, season the shrimp. Use a large skillet to cook the shrimp in batches to avoid steaming; overcrowding is the enemy of a good sear. After removing the shrimp, build your sauce in the same skillet to capture all the flavorful bits. Let the wine reduce fully before adding cream. Finally, combine the al dente pasta and shrimp off the direct heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp, using pasta water to emulsify the sauce into a silky consistency that clings to the penne.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile. For a casual family dinner, serve directly from the skillet with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness. For an elegant presentation, plate individually, garnishing with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a light sprinkle of paprika for color. The suggested garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce. A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy, briny flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cook penne al dente, reserving pasta water. Sauté seasoned shrimp until pink and set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic and peppers, deglaze with wine (optional), then simmer with cream and Parmesan. Combine pasta, shrimp, and sauce, loosening with pasta water as needed. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them very dry before seasoning to ensure proper searing.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but simmer it gently to avoid curdling. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut cream is a good alternative, though it will impart a coconut flavor.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming greasy? Avoid overheating the sauce after adding the Parmesan. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer. If the sauce breaks, whisk in a tablespoon of reserved pasta water to re-emulsify it.
Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce can be prepared a few hours ahead, but for best texture, cook the pasta and shrimp fresh and combine just before serving, as the pasta will continue to absorb sauce.
What if I don’t have white wine? Simply omit it. You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end with the parsley to achieve a similar bright, acidic note.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: They cook quickly and will become rubbery if left in the pan too long. Remove them as soon as they turn opaque.
- Skipping Pasta Water: The starchy water is essential for creating a cohesive, restaurant-quality sauce that properly coats the pasta.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate a block of Parmesan fresh for a smoother melt.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: Remove the skillet from direct heat before stirring in the Parmesan to prevent separation.
Conclusion
This creamy shrimp penne pasta masterfully balances luxurious comfort with straightforward technique. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive, restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen. Its rich sauce, tender shrimp, and al dente pasta make it a reliably delicious choice for any occasion, from a busy weeknight to a special dinner. Remember, the key lies in the prep, timing, and that magical splash of pasta water. Enjoy the process and the delicious results.