Few things in life are as soul-satisfying as a creamy pasta dish—especially when it features tender shrimp and gooey melted cheese. Enter: Garlic Shrimp Penne in Provolone Cream Sauce. It’s the perfect marriage of seafood richness, cheesy decadence, and garlicky bite, all wrapped around comforting penne noodles. This dish delivers serious restaurant vibes with weeknight-level effort.

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Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is one of those that feels fancy, but doesn’t require any culinary gymnastics. The garlic brings depth, the provolone melts into a luscious blanket of flavor, and the shrimp gives it that little something extra. It’s my go-to when I want to wow guests or treat myself to a dinner that feels indulgent without being fussy.

And honestly, anything that makes use of one skillet and still tastes like a creamy dream? I’m all in.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Ingredient Swaps and Notes

• Shrimp: You can swap in scallops or chicken if shrimp isn’t your thing.
• Provolone cheese: Mozzarella or a white cheddar can sub in here, but provolone offers a slightly smoky richness.
• Penne pasta: Any short pasta like rigatoni or farfalle will work just as well.
• Heavy cream: Half-and-half will lighten the sauce a bit but may thin it out.
• Parmesan: Pecorino Romano brings a sharper, saltier kick if you want to change things up.

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Boil penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté garlic
   In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Cook shrimp
   Add shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the sauce
   In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a light simmer and add shredded provolone. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add pasta and season
   Return the penne to the skillet and toss to coat in the cream sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish with shrimp
   Return shrimp to the skillet and gently fold them into the pasta. Let it all simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Serve hot
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

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Tips for Success

• Use fresh shrimp for best texture. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat dry thoroughly.
• Don’t overcook the garlic—you want it fragrant, not bitter.
• Stir cheese in gradually to avoid clumping.
• Reserve a little pasta water in case you want to thin out the sauce later.

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Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This pasta begs for bright sides and refreshing drinks. Here are some killer combos:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Toasted garlic bread or buttery ciabatta
• A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• Or serve it with a Blueberry Lemonade for a non-alcoholic contrast
• Planning a full spread? Start with our cheesy favorite: Beer Cheese Dip

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Storage and Leftover Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.
• Freezing not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed.

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More Recipes You’ll Love

• Classic Spaghetti with Homemade Sauce
• These Chicken Enchiladas Are My Go-To for Cozy Crowd-Pleasing Dinners
• This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
• This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter
• This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days

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Final Thoughts

Garlic Shrimp Penne in Provolone Cream Sauce is one of those meals that reminds you why cooking at home can be so rewarding. It’s luxurious, comforting, and surprisingly easy to pull off. With bold flavors, minimal cleanup, and total wow-factor, it deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Tried it? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Drop your thoughts in the comments and follow along for more cozy pasta recipes and seafood stunners.