Creamy Garlic Shrimp Penne Pasta

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb penne pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional, for heat
• salt and pepper, to taste
• fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping the pasta firm enough to hold the cream sauce.

2. 2

   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper, then sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through.

3. 3

   Remove the shrimp and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and let it warm gently.

4. 4

   Stir in the grated Parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth and lightly thickened. Add red pepper flakes if using for a soft touch of heat.

5. 5

   Return the penne and shrimp to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in the creamy sauce, then garnish with parsley and serve hot.