Garlic Butter Shrimp Penne with Ranch Cheese Cream
After one bite at a family cookout, this creamy shrimp pasta earned a permanent spot on our dinner rotation.
IngredientsFor the Garlic Butter Shrimp
1½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the Ranch Cheese Penne
12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How to Make It
Cook the PenneBring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining for an easy pasta dinner, restaurant-style comfort food, and best homemade penne.
Sear the ShrimpToss the shrimp with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly caramelized. Add the garlic during the last minute for an easy seafood dinner, garlic butter shrimp, and quick weeknight meal.
Make the Ranch Cheese SauceIn the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan, cheddar, ranch seasoning, onion powder, and black pepper. Simmer until thick, creamy, and smooth for the best cheese sauce, creamy pasta recipe, and family favorite dinner.
Combine the PastaFold the cooked penne into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed until silky. Stir gently until every piece is coated for an easy gourmet meal, cheesy comfort food, and restaurant-quality pasta.
Plate & FinishArrange the creamy ranch cheese penne on a serving platter and top with the garlic butter shrimp. Sprinkle generously with fresh parsley and serve immediately for the ultimate shrimp pasta, crowd-pleasing dinner, and special occasion meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Serving: 4 people
Calories: ~790 per serving | Protein: ~42g per serving
