Welcome to a recipe that promises to become an instant family favorite in your kitchen: Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. This delightful dish combines succulent shrimp with al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made from sweet roasted red bell peppers. It’s a meal that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget bland, time-consuming meals; this recipe delivers vibrant flavors and a comforting creaminess that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What sets this pasta apart is its exquisite roasted red pepper sauce. We harness the natural sweetness and smoky depth of roasted red bell peppers to create a sauce that is mild enough for even the pickiest eaters, yet bursting with sophisticated flavor. Unlike many creamy sauces, this one feels light and fresh, thanks to the peppers, and it perfectly complements the tender shrimp. If you’re looking to add a little heat and don’t have sensitive palates in the house, feel free to introduce some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to elevate the spice level. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed for success, bringing gourmet taste to your home with minimal effort.
Searching for more irresistible pasta creations? You might also enjoy my Creamy Alfredo Chicken Pasta for a classic indulgence or my hearty Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta for another comforting family meal.
Why You’ll Adore This Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta
This Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta with Red Pepper Sauce isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and family enjoyment. Here are compelling reasons why this dish will quickly become a cherished staple in your home:
- A Luscious, Flavor-Packed Red Pepper Sauce: Prepare to be captivated by a sauce that’s rich, creamy, and brimming with the naturally sweet and smoky notes of roasted red bell peppers. It’s the perfect canvas for coating every piece of pasta and succulent shrimp, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both comforting and surprisingly elegant. Its mild profile ensures it’s a hit with everyone, yet it’s robust enough to satisfy adult palates.
- Effortless Weeknight Wonder: Say goodbye to complicated cooking. This recipe is a true hero for those busy days when time is of the essence. Utilizing common pantry staples and a straightforward cooking process, you can effortlessly whip up this gourmet-tasting dish in just about 30 minutes. It’s the ideal solution for transforming hungry and hectic weeknights into moments of delicious tranquility.
- Perfectly Succulent Shrimp: Each shrimp is lovingly prepared with a simple, zesty marinade before being pan-seared to perfection. This quick cooking method ensures they remain incredibly tender and juicy, adding a delightful texture and burst of fresh seafood flavor that elevates the entire dish. The shrimp absorbs the vibrant flavors of the sauce, making every bite a delightful combination.
- Family-Friendly & Customizable: This pasta dish is inherently family-friendly, appealing to a wide range of tastes. The roasted red pepper sauce is naturally sweet and mild, making it suitable for children. For those who crave a bit of a kick, it’s incredibly easy to customize with a sprinkle of chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some chopped jalapeños or habaneros for a bolder, spicier version.
- Versatile and Satisfying: Beyond its incredible taste, this meal is wonderfully filling and balanced. It combines protein-rich shrimp, energizing pasta, and vegetable-derived sauce, offering a complete meal in one bowl. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being overly heavy, leaving you perfectly satisfied.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful meal. Most items are readily available, ensuring a hassle-free cooking experience.
- Raw Shrimp: Fresh or frozen (thawed) will work best for that tender, juicy bite.
- Penne Pasta: Its tubular shape is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze adds brightness and zest to the shrimp marinade.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing and cooking, imparting a rich, Mediterranean base.
- Pasta Water: The “liquid gold” that helps emulsify and thicken your sauce, making it extra luscious.
- Veggies: Roasted red bell peppers (for the star sauce!) and a small onion, finely diced for depth of flavor.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to the sauce’s luxurious, velvety texture.
- Seasoning: A blend of garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and optional chili flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cream Cheese: Contributes to the sauce’s creaminess and a subtle tang.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a burst of aromatic freshness and color.
- Parmesan Cheese: For grating on top, offering a salty, umami finish.
Crafting Your Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta with Red Pepper Sauce
Follow these simple steps to bring this incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish to life in your own kitchen. Precision and attention to detail will ensure a perfect result every time.
- Preparation is Key: Start by gathering and chopping all your ingredients. Dice the onion very finely, and have your seasonings measured out. This “mise en place” makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Create the Red Pepper Purée: Take your roasted red bell peppers (whether store-bought or freshly grilled) and place them into a food processor. Process until you achieve a smooth, vibrant purée. This forms the flavorful base of your incredible sauce.
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine your raw shrimp with a splash of lemon juice, a generous pinch of black pepper, and a dash of salt. Toss gently to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated. This quick marinade infuses flavor and helps tenderize the shrimp.
- Cook the Penne Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Before draining, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This will be crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn opaque pink and form a gentle ‘C’ shape. Be careful not to overcook them! Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl.
- Build the Creamy Red Pepper Sauce: In the same skillet (no need to clean it, the residual flavors add depth!), add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely diced onions until they become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then, stir in the garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Achieve Creamy Perfection: Next, add the roasted red pepper purée, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, and the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir continuously, breaking up the cream cheese as it melts, until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it gently simmer on low heat for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and Finish: Add the cooked penne pasta and the seared shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta and shrimp are beautifully coated in the creamy red pepper sauce. Stir in the freshly chopped basil. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb more of that incredible sauce and for all the flavors to fully marry.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Before serving, generously grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the top. A final sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a beautiful finish. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite!
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips for Success
To ensure your Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta is nothing short of perfection, keep these valuable tips and notes in mind:
- Roasted Peppers: For convenience, store-bought roasted red peppers packed in oil are excellent and save time. However, if you have fresh bell peppers, feel free to roast them yourself for an even deeper, personalized flavor. Simply halve them, remove seeds, brush with oil, and roast until tender and slightly charred.
- Shrimp Preparation: Always pat your raw shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels before marinating and cooking. Removing excess moisture allows the seasonings to adhere better and helps the shrimp sear properly, resulting in a more flavorful and tender texture.
- Boiling Water is a Must: Ensure your pasta water is at a vigorous rolling boil before adding the penne. This helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents it from clumping together.
- Prevent Pasta Sticking: As soon as you drop the pasta into the boiling water, give it a good stir. This simple action prevents the noodles from sticking to each other and to the bottom of the pot.
- Pasta Alternatives: Don’t have penne? No problem! This versatile sauce works wonderfully with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, linguine, rotini, or even spaghetti. Use whatever you have on hand.
- Drain with Care: While you need to drain most of the cooking water from your pasta, avoid letting it sit and dry out completely. As pasta cools, its starches firm up, causing the noodles to stick together. A quick drain and immediate addition to the sauce is ideal.
- The Magic of Pasta Water: Never forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid is truly the secret ingredient for a truly luscious, silky, and full-bodied sauce. It helps to emulsify the sauce and create a perfect consistency.
- Monitor Shrimp Cooking: Shrimp cook incredibly fast. Keep a close eye on them; they are done when they turn opaque pink and curl into a ‘C’ shape. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so remove them promptly.
- Season as You Go: Always taste your sauce as you’re cooking and adjust the seasoning (salt, pepper, spices) as needed. This ensures the final dish is perfectly balanced to your preference.
- Spice Level Customization: The chili flakes are entirely optional. Feel free to add more for a fiery kick, or omit them entirely for a milder, child-friendly version. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer.
- Garnishing: A final flourish of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and vibrant fresh basil leaves not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about this delightful Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta recipe:
Do I have to use shrimp?
While the shrimp in this recipe is undeniably delicious and pairs wonderfully with the red pepper sauce, it’s absolutely not a requirement. This recipe is incredibly versatile! If shrimp isn’t your preference, you can easily substitute it with other proteins such as pan-seared chicken breast, flaked salmon, or even Italian sausage. The creamy roasted red pepper sauce complements a variety of meats beautifully. For a vegetarian option, you can load up on extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to make a hearty meat-free meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can certainly use either fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe, making it convenient year-round. However, if using frozen shrimp, it’s crucial to thaw them properly before you begin cooking. The best method for thawing is to transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight. Place the shrimp in a sieve over a bowl to catch any dripping water. If you’re short on time, you can thaw frozen shrimp more quickly by placing them in a colander and running cold water over them until they are defrosted, usually about 5-10 minutes. Ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before marinating and cooking.
Is shrimp good for you?
Shrimp is indeed a highly nutritious seafood choice. It is notably low in calories and saturated fat, while being an excellent source of lean protein. In addition to protein, shrimp provides a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals, including selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, niacin, and iodine, all of which contribute to overall health. It offers a healthier alternative to many red meats, with less fat than lean beef and even skinless chicken. When purchasing shrimp, consider choosing wild-caught varieties or farmed shrimp from countries with strict aquaculture regulations, such as the US, to ensure quality and responsible sourcing practices.
Other Pasta Recipes You Might Like
- Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
- Creamy Chicken and Tomato Pasta
- Jalapeño Cheddar Mac N’ Cheese
Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta With Red Pepper Sauce
By: Mariam Ezzeddine
This Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta With Red Pepper Sauce recipe is very simple and a perfect filling meal for the family during weekdays or even busy weekends.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs raw shrimp
- 8 oz. penne pasta, uncooked
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsps. olive oil
- 1 cup pasta water
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz roasted red bell pepper, pureed
- 1 tsp. salt, +sprinkle a dash on the shrimp
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. black pepper, + sprinkle on shrimp
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 2 tbsps. fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp. chili flakes, optional
Instructions
- Chop and prep all the ingredients to begin.
- Process the roasted red bell pepper in a food processor to make it into puree sauce.
- Dice the onions into super small pieces. Cook the pasta and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Prep the shrimps by marinating with some lemon juice, black pepper and salt.
- Heat a skillet with 1 tbsp. of olive oil and cook the shrimps until they are almost fully cooked. About 5 minutes. Remove the shrimps and place in a bowl.
- In the same skillet, place another tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onions until they are translucent in color.
- Add in the black pepper, cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, the processed red pepper and salt. Add 1 cup of pasta water and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Mix everything together while breaking up the cream cheese and let the sauce simmer on low for a few minutes to obtain a creamy sauce.
- Add in the cooked pasta, shrimp and 2 tbsps. freshly chopped basil. Cook everything together for 5 minutes so the pasta absorbs the sauce (while covered).
- Remove the skillet from heat and grate some fresh parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Notes
- I buy the roasted peppers packed in oil from the grocery stores but feel free to grill yours.
- Pat your shrimp, to remove excess water, this allows the seasoning and marinade to stick better.
- Make sure to add your pasta to boiling water.
- Once you drop the pasta in the water, stir immediately to avoid sticking.
- No penne, no problem! You can use whatever pasta you have to hand.
- Drain your pasta enough to remove most of the water, but don’t let drained pasta sit and dry off. As pasta cools, the starches will firm up and the noodles will stick together.
- Be sure to reserve some pasta water! This really is the secret to a luscious and full bodied sauce.
- Shrimps cook quickly so keep an eye on them, when they turn opaque pink and form a ‘C’ shape they are done.
- Be sure to taste and season the sauce as you go.
- Feel free to add or omit the chili flakes, depending on the heat levels you want.
- Top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 669kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 47.1g | Fat: 30.8g | Saturated Fat: 14.8g | Sodium: 972.9mg | Sugar: 6.4g
We genuinely hope you enjoy creating and savoring this incredible Creamy Shrimp Penne Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. It’s a dish crafted with love to bring joy and flavor to your table, proving that quick meals can still be exceptionally delicious. Don’t forget to try it out, share your experience, and perhaps even rate the recipe! Your feedback helps us grow and inspires others to embark on their culinary adventures.
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