Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta (the perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy sauce); 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined); 3 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the shrimp and garlic, adds depth of flavor); 4 cloves garlic (minced, the star aromatic that infuses the sauce with boldness); 1 cup heavy cream (creates the luscious, silky base of the sauce); 1 cup chicken broth (adds savory depth and thins out the cream just enough); 1 lemon (zested and juiced, brightens and balances the richness perfectly); 1 teaspoon salt (essential for seasoning throughout); 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (adds a subtle kick); 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for a fresh, herbal finish); Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional but highly recommended for that extra umami punch)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a pasta dish that marries bright, zesty lemon with the rich silkiness of cream and the bold punch of garlic. Enter this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne—a dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Tender shrimp cooked to perfection, enveloped in a luscious lemon-garlic cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly al dente penne pasta. It hits all the right notes: fresh, indulgent, and downright delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne is one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes. The lemon zest and juice add a bright, refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce, which keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. Plus, shrimp cooks so quickly and pairs beautifully with pasta, making it a perfect protein choice. Whether you’re craving something cozy but light or want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe fits the bill. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can swap out the pasta shape or easily add more veggies to customize it your way.

What Goes In

8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch.
3 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the shrimp and garlic, adds depth of flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced – the star aromatic that infuses the sauce with boldness.
1 cup heavy cream – creates the luscious, silky base of the sauce.
1 cup chicken broth – adds savory depth and thins out the cream just enough.
1 lemon, zested and juiced – brightens and balances the richness perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt – essential for seasoning throughout.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle kick.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – for a fresh, herbal finish.
Parmesan cheese, for serving – optional but highly recommended for that extra umami punch.

Equipment Breakdown

Large pot – to cook the penne pasta to al dente perfection.
Large skillet or sauté pan – to sear the shrimp and gently simmer the sauce.
Microplane or fine grater – for zesting the lemon evenly.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
Colander – to drain the pasta once it’s cooked.

The Method for Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown). Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the shrimp for extra flavor.

Step 4: Add Cream and Lemon

Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add the lemon zest and juice, then season the sauce with salt and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy lemon garlic sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley and Parmesan

Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Fit It to Your Goals

For a lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
Boost the veggies: Add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus during the sauce step for extra nutrition.
Make it spicy: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
Swap the protein: Replace shrimp with grilled chicken breast or tofu for a different twist.
Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free penne to keep this dish accessible for all diets.

Missteps & Fixes

If your shrimp turns rubbery, likely it was overcooked. To avoid this, cook shrimp just until pink and opaque, then remove immediately.
If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a little longer to reduce and thicken.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it up.
If the garlic burns and tastes bitter, start over with fresh garlic and keep the heat medium or lower.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as this can make the shrimp tough and the sauce separate.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan, which can prevent proper searing.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne is ideal because its tube shape holds onto the creamy sauce well, but you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for topping.

How can I make this recipe more filling?

Adding vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or peas boosts volume and nutrients. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a more substantial meal.

Don’t Miss These

Try the Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo for another luxurious shrimp pasta option bursting with flavors.
If you love lemony cream sauces, the Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a fantastic alternative with tender chicken.
For a tomato-based creamy twist, check out the Creamy Tomato Parmesan Penne, which is equally comforting and delicious.

Bring It to the Table

Serve this Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a perfect accompaniment. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special date night, this dish delivers rich, vibrant flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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