Description
Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients:
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup corn kernels
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Sauté the shrimp: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Make the creamy sauce: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and corn, cooking for another 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Stir to combine, letting the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
Combine the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Top with shrimp: Add the shrimp back into the pan, mixing everything together. Let it simmer for 2 more minutes.
Serve and garnish: Plate the creamy shrimp pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve and enjoy!
This creamy shrimp pasta is full of flavor and perfect for a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients: mince garlic, halve tomatoes, grate Parmesan, and chop parsley. This mise en place ensures a smooth cooking process. Use a large pot for the pasta and a separate, large skillet or pan for the sauce and shrimp. The key is to time the pasta to be ready just as your sauce finishes thickening. When sautéing the shrimp, ensure the pan is hot before adding them to get a slight sear and prevent steaming. Do not overcrowd the pan. After removing the shrimp, immediately proceed with the sauce in the same pan to utilize the flavorful fond.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a complete meal, serve with crusty garlic bread or a toasted baguette to soak up the extra sauce. A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the shrimp and cream perfectly. For presentation, use a shallow bowl, twirl the pasta with tongs, and arrange the shrimp on top before finishing with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
How-to Summary
To make creamy shrimp pasta: 1) Boil and drain penne pasta. 2) Sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink, then set aside. 3) In the same pan, cook garlic, tomatoes, and corn. 4) Add cream, Parmesan, and thyme, simmering to thicken. 5) Combine sauce with pasta, season, then mix in the cooked shrimp. 6) Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, fully thaw and pat dry frozen shrimp thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess water diluting your sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work, but the sauce will be less rich and may not thicken as much.
How can I prevent the sauce from breaking? Keep the heat at a gentle simmer when adding the dairy and cheese. Avoid boiling vigorously. Let the Parmesan come to room temperature before adding.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Spinach, asparagus, or peas are excellent additions. Add delicate greens like spinach at the very end to wilt.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender.
- Underseasoning the Pasta Water: Salt the boiling water generously; it’s your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Adding Cold Cheese to Hot Sauce: Adding cold, clumpy Parmesan can cause it to seize. Use room-temperature, finely grated cheese and stir continuously.
- Crowding the Pan: Cooking too many shrimp at once steams them. Cook in batches if necessary for the best texture.
Conclusion
This creamy shrimp pasta recipe is a reliable, restaurant-quality dish you can master at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a decadent, satisfying meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressing guests. The combination of plump shrimp, sweet corn, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce over pasta is truly irresistible. Don’t forget the final garnish of fresh parsley—it adds a necessary pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your culinary creation!