What if I told you that a restaurant-quality meal can come together in just 30 minutes—with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Yes, Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Penne is the ultimate comfort dish you didn’t know your weeknight dinners needed. Rich, velvety Alfredo sauce envelopes juicy, garlicky shrimp and perfectly al dente penne pasta, creating a luxurious bite every time.
Seafood pasta dishes are gaining traction online, with search trends for “shrimp Alfredo” up by 23% over the past year. And it’s no wonder—this creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo penne recipe brings a fine-dining feel to your kitchen table, without the stress. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this luscious pasta dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until pink and opaque (about 2–3 minutes per side). Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in chicken broth (or wine) and reduce slightly. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine
Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Add cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while creamy and hot.
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Swap penne with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and a vegan Parmesan alternative.
- Add Veggies: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms work beautifully.
- Make It Spicy: Double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
COOKING Note
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need a few minutes.
- Let the Alfredo sauce simmer, not boil, to avoid curdling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo penne with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted asparagus. Want to elevate it further? Pair it with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a romantic dinner, light a few candles and serve it in your best pasta bowls.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as shrimp can become rubbery. You can also prep the sauce ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Sodium: 670 mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- Use whole wheat penne for added fiber.
- Reduce the Parmesan slightly or choose a reduced-fat variety.
- Bulk it up with extra veggies like broccoli or bell peppers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Shrimp: They cook quickly—watch closely.
- Boiling the Sauce: High heat can break the emulsion.
- Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Fresh Parmesan melts better and has more flavor.
- Skipping the Salted Pasta Water: This step builds flavor from the base.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Penne delivers bold flavors, creamy textures, and indulgent satisfaction. It’s a dish that feels like a reward at the end of a busy day. Whether you’re making it for guests or a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Craving more elevated weeknight meals? Share your results in the comments, pin this post for later, or explore our other irresistible pasta recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: The sauce and shrimp can be made ahead and stored separately. Combine and reheat gently before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of flour or cornstarch can work in a pinch.
Q: Can I substitute the shrimp?
A: Absolutely—chicken, scallops, or even tofu can be delicious alternatives.
Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check all labels on other ingredients.
Whip Up Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo Penne in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, garlicky shrimp Alfredo penne pasta that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp butter (unsalted)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until pink and opaque (2–3 mins per side). Remove and set aside.
3. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add garlic, sauté for 1 min. Pour in chicken broth or wine and reduce slightly. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Whisk in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add red pepper flakes if using. Add pasta and shrimp. Toss to coat.
5. Garnish with parsley and more Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh shrimp for the best texture.
Let the Alfredo sauce simmer gently—don’t boil.
Reheat gently with a splash of cream to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo penne, shrimp pasta, Alfredo pasta