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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe

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4 from 42 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delectable Italian-inspired dish featuring perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a rich, creamy garlic sauce with succulent sautéed shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Infused with aromatic herbs and a hint of smoky paprika, this comforting meal is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces penne pasta

Shrimp Seasoning

  • 1 pound large shrimp, shelled and deveined
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Sauce and Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, drained
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups half and half
  • ½ cup chicken stock or reserved pasta water
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil or 1 teaspoon dried
  • Additional salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the penne pasta to al dente according to the package directions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking liquid if you are not using chicken stock for the sauce.
  2. Season the Shrimp: In a small bowl, toss the shelled and deveined shrimp with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
  3. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the half and half and chicken stock (or reserved pasta water) along with the red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a low simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Turn off the heat.
  6. Add the Cheeses: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is creamy.
  7. Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Basil: Fold the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, and fresh or dried basil into the creamy sauce, mixing gently to evenly coat.
  8. Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your creamy garlic shrimp pasta!

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water as a substitute for chicken stock to keep this dish vegetarian-friendly (use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make fully vegetarian).
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted depending on your preference for heat.
  • For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with additional chopped basil or parsley before serving.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
  • Ensure not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery; shrimp cook very quickly and are done when pink and opaque.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/creamy-garlic-shrimp-pasta-recipe/