Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with zesty lemon, rich cream, and succulent shrimp, then this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne is about to become your new favorite dinner. It’s the perfect balance of bright citrus and comforting creaminess, paired with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe is straightforward, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne stands out because it offers a fresh twist on the classic creamy shrimp pasta. The addition of fresh lemon zest and juice cuts through the richness of the heavy cream, giving the sauce a vibrant, refreshing character. The garlic infuses the olive oil with a deep aroma, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth that rounds out every bite. Plus, using penne pasta helps the sauce cling perfectly to each piece, ensuring you get a mouthful of flavor every time.

If you love dishes like Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, you’re going to adore this lemony variation that brings a bright, tangy edge to the table.

What’s in the Bowl

• 8 oz penne pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto the luscious sauce.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Tender and juicy, the star protein.
• 3 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the garlic and shrimp to golden perfection.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds that essential punch of flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the creamy, dreamy sauce base.
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced – Brings bright, fresh acidity that balances the cream.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty richness to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds color and a fresh herbal note.

Setup & Equipment

• Large pot – For boiling the penne pasta until al dente.
• Large skillet – To sauté the shrimp and garlic, and prepare the sauce.
• Colander – To drain the pasta.
• Lemon zester and juicer – For extracting fresh lemon zest and juice.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir everything together gently.

Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a half cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in 1 cup heavy cream. Stir well to combine with the garlic-infused oil. Add the lemon zest and juice of 1 lemon, stirring constantly to blend the flavors. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy lemon garlic sauce and the shrimp are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet contrast.
• Incorporate fresh basil or thyme for herbal complexity.
• Mix in baby spinach or arugula for a pop of green and a nutritional boost.
• For heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or serve with a side of spicy Penne Arrabbiata.

Method to the Madness

This recipe relies on layering flavors thoughtfully. First, the garlic gently infuses the olive oil, providing a fragrant base for the shrimp. Cooking the shrimp just right ensures they stay juicy and tender without turning rubbery. The lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, cutting through the richness of the cream and cheese. Combining everything at the end allows the pasta to soak up the sauce’s flavors without becoming soggy.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently over low heat.
• This dish does not freeze well due to the cream, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Quick Q&A

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding this creamy sauce, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, whole milk with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch works to thicken the sauce, though it won’t be as rich and creamy. Coconut cream is another alternative for a dairy-free twist.

How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp cook quickly, usually 2-3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep a close eye.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free cream substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to maintain that cheesy flavor without dairy.

Explore More

• Looking for another bright and creamy pasta? Try this Creamy Lemon Pasta that’s equally refreshing.
• If you want to spice things up, the Penne Arrabbiata is a fiery delight.
• For a classic shrimp pasta with a garlicky twist, check out the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

See You at the Table

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne is a dish that brings sunshine to your dinner plate and smiles to your table. Its perfect balance of creamy texture and zesty brightness makes every bite a joy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner but elegant enough for special occasions. Grab your ingredients, follow along, and enjoy a pasta experience that’s fresh, flavorful, and downright delicious.

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