Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne

If you’re craving a rich, luscious pasta dish that’s quick enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests, this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne is exactly what you need. Tender shrimp, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a velvety Alfredo sauce come together in this comforting recipe that’s bursting with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and endlessly satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a creamy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. What makes this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne stand out is the balance of flavors — the shrimp is juicy and succulent, the garlic adds a punch of aroma, and the Parmesan cheese melts into that cream base to create a sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of penne. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder when you time it right, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss, or for a cozy weekend dinner that feels special without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 8 ounces penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to catch all that creamy Alfredo goodness in every bite.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, these add a lovely seafood sweetness and meaty texture.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the shrimp to a golden perfection and building the flavor base.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have in Alfredo sauces, offering that irresistible savory aroma.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the sauce, providing that rich, silky texture that makes Alfredo so dreamy.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, nutty Parmesan melts into the cream to create the signature Alfredo flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds depth and a hint of earthiness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, slightly peppery finish.

Gear Checklist

• Large pot: For boiling the penne pasta perfectly al dente.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking the shrimp and making the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Colander: To drain your pasta easily.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware.
• Grater: If you’re using a block of Parmesan cheese for the freshest flavor.

How to Prepare Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne

Step 1: Cook the penne pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about a half cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, allowing it to warm up and start to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the cheese and seasoning

Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help it coat the pasta evenly.

Step 5: Combine everything

Add the cooked penne pasta and sautéed shrimp back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything gently to ensure every pasta piece is coated and the shrimp are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while warm.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Swap penne with fettuccine or linguine for a different pasta texture.
• Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Replace shrimp with sliced chicken breast or tofu if preferred.
• Use Pecorino Romano cheese for a sharper, tangier twist on the sauce.

Behind the Recipe

This Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne recipe is inspired by traditional Italian flavors with a simple, modern approach. The creamy Alfredo sauce, traditionally made with butter, cream, and Parmesan, is enhanced here with garlic and Italian seasoning to deepen the flavor profile without overwhelming the delicate shrimp. Using penne pasta is intentional — its tube shape captures the sauce perfectly, making each bite creamy and satisfying.

The recipe is designed to be approachable and quick, perfect for busy nights or when you want something comforting but fuss-free. Sautéing the shrimp separately ensures they stay tender and maintain their fresh seafood flavor without overcooking.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the creamy Alfredo sauce can separate after freezing and reheating. However, if you want to prepare ahead, you can cook the shrimp and pasta separately and freeze them in airtight containers. When ready to eat, gently reheat the shrimp and pasta, then quickly make a fresh Alfredo sauce on the stove and combine everything. This method keeps the sauce silky and the shrimp tender.

Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative that still provides richness.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese, and stir constantly to prevent curdling. Avoid boiling the sauce vigorously, as high heat can cause separation.

Is it okay to make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare some components in advance, like cooking the pasta and shrimp, but the Alfredo sauce tastes best fresh. Reheat gently and add a little cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Similar Recipes

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – A zesty, bright twist on shrimp pasta with a creamy garlic sauce and a hint of lemon.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta – Another shrimp pasta delight featuring a garlic butter sauce that’s quick and flavorful.
• One-Pot Shrimp Alfredo – For those who love minimal cleanup, this one-pot version is a creamy seafood feast.

Make It Tonight

If you’re wondering what to cook tonight, I highly recommend diving into this Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Penne. It’s a perfect balance of rich and light, with shrimp that feels special and sauce that’s indulgently creamy. Plus, it comes together in less than 30 minutes — ideal for a quick dinner that impresses. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love.

Every bite is a reminder that comfort food can be elegant and easy to prepare. So grab your skillet, boil that pasta, and get ready to enjoy a delicious dinner that tastes like you put in hours but actually took minutes. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight meals with the magic of creamy shrimp Alfredo pasta.

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