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!
