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Shrimp Alfredo Penne

This Shrimp Alfredo Penne combines tender, juicy shrimp seared to perfection with a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Tossed with al dente penne, the dish showcases a velvety sauce coated over pasta, accented by the briny sweetness of shrimp and bright lemon notes. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta al dente
  • 1/2 lb medium shrimp deveined, peeled
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice
  • 2 tbsp parsley chopped, optional for garnish
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook until just al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and a bit of butter. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes, until edges turn pink and slightly opaque.
  3. Flip the shrimp and cook another 1-2 minutes until fully pink and firm. Remove with tongs and set aside on a plate.
  4. Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden, about 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water.
  7. Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for another minute to heat everything through.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley if using. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
  9. Give everything a final gentle toss, then serve immediately with extra Parmesan and lemon zest for brightness.

Notes

Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them juicy. Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.