Ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s both simple and scrumptious? My Savory Shrimp Alfredo Penne Recipe is just what you need! This creamy pasta dish is loaded with shrimp, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, making it perfect for any occasion. Follow my easy step-by-step instructions, and you'll create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let's dive into making this delightful pasta together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Creamy Comfort: The rich Alfredo sauce combined with succulent shrimp creates a comforting dish that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: You can easily add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
- Impressive Presentation: With its creamy sauce and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For this Shrimp Alfredo Penne, you need key ingredients that create rich flavors. The penne pasta serves as a hearty base. Large shrimp bring a touch of the sea. Unsalted butter adds richness and depth.
The sauce is the star. Heavy cream makes it creamy and smooth. Grated Parmesan cheese gives it a sharp, salty kick. Garlic adds warmth and aroma.
Seasoning is simple yet effective. Black pepper adds just the right amount of heat. Red pepper flakes can be optional if you want extra spice. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds color.
Gather these ingredients to create a meal that impresses. Each element plays a role in making this dish special. You will love how they come together!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook until al dente.
- This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Preparing the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 lb of large shrimp to the skillet.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- They should turn pink and opaque.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once melted, add 3 cloves of minced garlic.
- Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it smells great.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add black pepper and red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked penne pasta and shrimp back into the skillet.
- Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are coated in the Alfredo sauce.
Serving the Dish
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Plate the pasta in deep bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch.
- For extra flair, sprinkle some more Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Alfredo Sauce
- How to avoid lumps: Start by melting butter on medium heat. Slowly add the cream. Stir it well to mix. Whisk in the Parmesan cheese gradually. This method helps the cheese melt smoothly, avoiding lumps.
- Adjusting thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more cream or milk. Stir until you reach the desired consistency. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. This helps it reduce and become more creamy.
Shrimp Cooking Tips
- Best cooking times for shrimp: Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. When they turn pink and opaque, they're ready. Overcooking makes them tough, so watch closely.
- How to tell when shrimp is done: Perfect shrimp will curl slightly and change color. They should be firm to the touch. If they look dull or gray, they need more cooking.
Presentation Tips
- Serving suggestions: Use deep bowls for a nice presentation. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top. A light drizzle of olive oil gives it a glossy look.
- Ideal serving dishes: Choose wide, shallow bowls. They allow for a beautiful display of pasta and shrimp. Pair with toasted garlic bread on the side for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Always cook the pasta al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Fresh Garlic is Key: Use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced for a stronger, more vibrant flavor in your Alfredo sauce.
- Quality Parmesan Matters: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese as it melts better and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Variations
Different Pasta Options
You can swap penne for other pasta types. Great choices include:
- Fusilli
- Farfalle
- Spaghetti
These shapes hold sauce well and offer fun textures. If you need gluten-free options, try:
- Brown rice pasta
- Quinoa pasta
- Chickpea pasta
These alternatives work well and taste great.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition. Consider these options:
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
Sauté them with garlic for a tasty mix. You can also switch proteins. Instead of shrimp, use:
- Chicken
- Scallops
- Tofu
Each choice adds its own unique taste.
Sauces and Seasonings
Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. For a rich twist, try different cheeses. Options include:
- Asiago
- Gouda
- Cream cheese
These will enhance your dish and make it more exciting.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, place Shrimp Alfredo Penne in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. This helps keep the pasta fresh. It will last in the fridge for up to three days.
For reheating, I suggest using the stove or microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of cream or water to keep it moist. Heat on low and stir gently until warm. In the microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts. This helps prevent drying out.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze Shrimp Alfredo Penne! To do this, cool it completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to leave space for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
When it’s time to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For reheating, you can use the stove or microwave. Add a bit of cream to keep it creamy. Stir often to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in the fridge overnight. If you need them fast, you can also put them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Be sure to change the water every 10 minutes to keep it cold. Once thawed, pat them dry with a paper towel to help them cook better.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This will still give you a creamy texture but with fewer calories. You can also use whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Another good choice is coconut milk for a dairy-free version. It adds a nice flavor and creaminess without the heavy cream.
How to make a vegetarian version?
To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini. Both add great flavor and texture. For the cream, use a plant-based cream or a vegan sour cream. This keeps the dish creamy while making it suitable for vegans. You won’t lose the rich taste of the Alfredo sauce using these swaps.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious Shrimp Alfredo Penne. We explored the key ingredients, easy steps for cooking, and tips for the perfect dish. You can elevate your meal with variations and proper storage methods. Consider using alternative pastas or adding veggies for extra flavor. Remember to check shrimp doneness for the best results. Enjoy creating this simple and tasty meal anytime. It’s sure to impress!
