Surf & Turf Penne: A Rich, Creamy Pasta That Hits Every Note
What do you get when grilled chicken meets succulent shrimp, all tossed in a luscious tomato sauce? A pasta dish that feels gourmet but comes together in minutes. This Surf & Turf Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce brings together land and sea flavors in a garlicky, herbed base with a satisfying cheesy finish. It’s perfect for date nights, weeknight upgrades, or when you just want to treat yourself to something savory and indulgent.
Why I Love This Recipe
Pasta is always a win, but this one brings it up a notch with juicy chicken, tender shrimp, and a perfectly balanced tomato sauce. The Italian seasoning, garlic, and parmesan work together to build a flavor-packed dish that tastes like it simmered for hours—but really takes less than 30 minutes. It’s fancy-feeling without the fuss, and one of my go-to dinners when I want something satisfying and a little bit special.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup grilled chicken strips
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Protein Options: Swap shrimp for scallops or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Sauce Swap: A vodka sauce or creamy marinara adds a decadent touch.
- Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Protein: Stir in grilled chicken and shrimp, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together and stir in grated parmesan until creamy and well coated.
- Serve: Plate warm and garnish with extra parmesan or fresh basil, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: If starting with raw shrimp, sauté them just until pink and remove before continuing the sauce.
- Save Pasta Water: A splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen and enrich the sauce if needed.
- Serve Immediately: The creamy sauce is best served fresh while still hot and glossy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty pasta dish with:
- A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or Sheet Pan Quesadillas as a twist
- A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon
Storage & Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
More Flavorful Dinners to Try
Looking for more one-pan magic or crowd-pleasing comfort meals? Don’t miss these:
- Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
- Instant Pot Lasagna
- Chicken Enchiladas
Final Thoughts
This Surf & Turf Penne is a delicious way to bring elegance to your everyday meals. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be serving up bold flavor in no time.
If you whip this up, I’d love to see it! Share your plate and tag @chefmaniac to show off your creamy, dreamy pasta night. 🍅🦐🐓
