why make this recipe
This pasta is quick, tasty, and feels a bit fancy but is easy to make. It fits weeknight cooking and pairs well with other simple dishes like cheesy queso ground beef and rice for a full meal.
introduction
This Shrimp and Roasted Garlic Penne Pasta mixes roasted garlic and shrimp with pasta for a bright, tasty dish that you can make fast. You can read our site terms for how we present recipes and tips.
how to make Shrimp and Roasted Garlic Penne Pasta
Start by roasting the garlic and cooking the pasta. Then cook the shrimp briefly so it stays tender. Toss everything together with fresh parsley and tomatoes. For a fuller plate, pair it with a simple side like cheesy ground beef and rice.
Ingredients :
8 oz penne pasta, 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined, 1 head garlic, roasted, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, Salt and pepper to taste, Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions :
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the roasted garlic and sauté for a minute.
- Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked penne pasta and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Shrimp and Roasted Garlic Penne Pasta
Serve warm on plates or in a shallow bowl. Add extra Parmesan on top. A green salad or steamed vegetables go well with this pasta.
how to store Shrimp and Roasted Garlic Penne Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature within two hours. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.
tips to make Shrimp and Roasted Garlic Penne Pasta
- Do not overcook the shrimp; cook until just pink.
- Crush the roasted garlic into a paste before adding for even flavor.
- Save a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
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variation (if any)
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Use fettuccine or rigatoni instead of penne.
- Swap shrimp for cooked chicken if you prefer.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra water.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can cook the pasta and shrimp and store separately for up to one day, then toss and warm before serving. Try serving it with a hearty side like cheesy queso ground beef and rice if you want more food for guests.
Q: How do I roast garlic quickly?
A: Cut the top, drizzle with oil, wrap in foil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes until soft.

Shrimp and Roasted Garlic Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the roasted garlic and sauté for a minute.
- Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Toss in the cooked penne pasta and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.