Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta

Introduction

Dive into the rich, indulgent world of Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta — a classic comfort dish where tender shrimp meets velvety Alfredo sauce, all wrapped around perfectly cooked penne. This Italian-American favorite blends savory garlic, creamy parmesan, and delicate seafood for a meal that feels both luxurious and effortless.

Ingredients

Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick

Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• Salted water, for boiling

Optional Add-ins

• Chopped tomatoes or diced red bell pepper
• Fresh parsley or green onion, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta
   Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp
   In a bowl, toss shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Create the Alfredo Sauce
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly, and let simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve
   Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat. Fold in the cooked shrimp and any optional add-ins. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

Method

This one-skillet method locks in all the deep flavors — from sautéed shrimp to garlicky cream sauce — and ensures minimal cleanup. The layering of ingredients in the same pan results in maximum taste with minimal effort.

Background

While Alfredo sauce originated in Rome with just butter and cheese, its creamy American twist has become a staple in homes across the globe. Adding shrimp elevates the dish with a subtle seafood richness, making it a perfect fusion of comfort and elegance.

Benefits

• High-protein from shrimp
• Healthy fats from olive oil and cream
• Rich in calcium thanks to Parmesan
• Comfort food that also nourishes

Culinary Harmony

This dish shines because of its balance: juicy shrimp contrasts beautifully with the richness of the sauce, while the penne captures every bit of flavor. Each element enhances the next — it’s a symphony of savory indulgence.

Perfect For

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a cozy family meal, or a solo treat, this dish fits the bill. It’s simple enough for weeknights but decadent enough to impress.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 36g
• Calcium: 25% DV

Final Thoughts

Every bite of this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne Pasta offers a comforting embrace of flavor. It’s a dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again — smooth, satisfying, and simply unforgettable.