Discover the recipe for a delightful creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta that will become a staple in your family’s meal rotation. With just the right balance of creamy Alfredo sauce, succulent shrimp, and flavorful spices, this dish is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Cooking Time: 30 Minutes | Servings: 6
Learn how to create this mouthwatering dish step by step:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Shrimp:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Sauce:
- 3 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook the penne noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Mix salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika in a small bowl.
- Season both sides of the shrimp with the spice mixture.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Cook the shrimp for 1 minute on each side until pink with a touch of golden brown. Avoid overcooking. Remove the cooked shrimp and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add sun-dried tomatoes and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour half and half into the skillet and bring it to a boil.
- Add Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and well combined. Reduce heat to a simmer.
- Stir in chicken broth, dried basil, red pepper flakes, paprika, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Alfredo sauce. Mix until the pasta is fully coated.
- Gently add the cooked shrimp to the sauce and pasta mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta while hot.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and finely grated Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy the flavorsome delight with your loved ones!
FAQs (Based on “People Also Ask” Section)
Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta:
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh Shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Thaw the shrimp completely before cooking, and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Half and Half with Milk?
While half and half provide richness to the sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream for a similar result.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
Conclusion: Delight in Homemade Comfort Food
In conclusion, this creamy mozzarella shrimp pasta offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting and delicious meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a gourmet dish right in your kitchen. Treat your family to this delectable recipe and savor every bite of this culinary masterpiece!