Pasta and shrimp are a match made in culinary heaven, especially when bathed in a luscious cream and wine sauce. This Pioneer Woman shrimp pasta recipe is a testament to that perfect pairing. My husband and I have returned to this comforting and rich dish time and again, and it consistently earns a spot as a favorite weeknight indulgence and an impressive meal for guests. It’s wonderfully straightforward and quick to prepare after a busy day, yet possesses an elegance that makes it equally fitting for a romantic dinner for two or a sophisticated dinner party.
True to the Pioneer Woman’s signature style, this shrimp pasta recipe leans towards the indulgent side with generous amounts of butter and cream. For those mindful of calories, the recipe can easily be adapted by reducing the butter and olive oil, and substituting half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative for the heavy cream, without sacrificing the essential flavors.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Shrimp Penne Recipe
The beauty of this Pioneer Woman shrimp pasta lies in its simplicity. The ingredient list is short and sweet, ensuring that the focus remains on the fresh flavors and creamy texture. The most involved step is preparing the shrimp – shelling and deveining – but even that is a quick task that sets the stage for a truly rewarding meal.
Sautéing Shrimp for Pioneer Woman Creamy Pasta
The cooking process begins by gently sautéing the shrimp. A touch of butter and olive oil in a skillet creates the perfect environment to cook the shrimp just until they turn a delicate opaque pink. It’s crucial not to overcook the shrimp at this stage, as they will continue to cook in the sauce later.
Cooling Cooked Shrimp for Pioneer Woman Pasta Dish
Once the shrimp are lightly cooked, they are removed from the heat to cool slightly. This step allows them to retain their tender texture and prevents them from becoming rubbery during the sauce preparation.
Preparing Shrimp for Pioneer Woman Penne Pasta
While the shrimp are cooling, you can prepare them for the final dish by removing the tails and chopping them into bite-sized pieces. This makes the shrimp easier to incorporate into the pasta and sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Sautéing Garlic and Onions for Pioneer Woman Shrimp Pasta Sauce
The foundation of the flavorful cream sauce is built by sautéing aromatics. In a large skillet, butter and olive oil melt together, creating a base for sautéing diced onions and minced garlic. These are cooked until softened and fragrant, releasing their essential flavors into the fat.
Adding White Wine to Pioneer Woman Shrimp Pasta Sauce
White wine is then added to the skillet, deglazing the pan and adding a layer of complexity to the sauce. The wine is allowed to evaporate slightly, concentrating its flavors and mellowing out its acidity. For those who prefer to avoid alcohol, low-sodium chicken broth makes an excellent substitute, maintaining the moisture and flavor profile.
Adding Tomato Sauce to Pioneer Woman Creamy Shrimp Pasta Sauce
Next, tomato sauce is stirred into the skillet, adding a touch of acidity and depth of flavor to the sauce. Plain tomato sauce is key here, allowing the other flavors to shine through without being overpowered by herbs or spices.
Adding Heavy Cream to Pioneer Woman Shrimp Pasta Sauce
The final touch of richness comes from the addition of heavy cream. As it’s stirred in, the sauce transforms into a velvety, luxurious coating that perfectly complements the shrimp and pasta. The heat is reduced to low, and the sauce is left to simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Adding Cooked Shrimp to Pioneer Woman Pasta Sauce
The chopped, cooked shrimp are then returned to the skillet, nestled into the creamy tomato sauce. They gently warm through, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and becoming even more succulent.
Adding Herbs to Pioneer Woman Shrimp Pasta
Fresh herbs, such as parsley and basil, are stirred in at the end, adding a bright, fresh note that balances the richness of the sauce. Salt and pepper are added to taste, ensuring the seasoning is perfectly balanced.
Mixing Pasta into Pioneer Woman Shrimp Pasta Sauce
Finally, the cooked penne pasta is added to the skillet and tossed with the creamy shrimp sauce until every strand is coated in deliciousness. The dish is ready to serve immediately, offering a comforting and elegant meal that’s sure to impress.
Pioneer Woman Shrimp Penne Pasta Ready to Serve
Enjoy this delightful Pioneer Woman shrimp pasta recipe – a creamy, dreamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create something truly extraordinary.
