Creamy Lemon Pepper Shrimp Penne is a delightful fusion of zesty citrus, tender shrimp, and velvety pasta—all brought together in a luscious, creamy sauce. This dish perfectly balances the brightness of lemon with the mild heat of black pepper, creating a refreshing yet indulgent pasta experience.

Every bite offers a burst of flavor, from the juicy, seared shrimp to the rich sauce coating each strand of penne. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings, this dish proves that simple ingredients can yield restaurant-quality results.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together two of my favorite things: creamy pasta and fresh seafood. The tangy lemon juice cuts through the richness of the cream, giving the sauce a light, refreshing quality, while the cracked black pepper adds warmth and complexity.

The shrimp, when sautéed to perfection, are tender and juicy, creating a beautiful contrast to the al dente penne. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated dish that feels like a coastal Italian meal—vibrant, creamy, and full of life.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it captures the essence of freshness and indulgence in one bowl. The lemon and pepper combination awakens the palate, while the creamy sauce delivers pure comfort.

It’s a quick, one-pan meal that looks and tastes elegant enough for guests but is easy enough for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—perfect for anyone who loves a balance of zest, creaminess, and perfectly cooked shrimp.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 540 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• Salt, to taste

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach (optional, for added color and nutrition)

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
• Salt, for pasta water

For Garnish

• Extra grated Parmesan
• Lemon wedges
• Chopped parsley

Cooking Directions

1. Cook penne until al dente and set aside.
2. Sauté shrimp with lemon pepper seasoning until pink and slightly crisp.
3. Prepare a creamy lemon butter sauce with garlic, cream, and Parmesan.
4. Combine shrimp and pasta in the sauce.
5. Garnish and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with lemon pepper and a pinch of salt, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Butter Base
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Spinach
Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in spinach if using, allowing it to wilt for 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir gently to combine.

Step 7: Serve
Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

How to Serve

Serve Creamy Lemon Pepper Shrimp Penne hot, garnished with lemon wedges and freshly grated Parmesan. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For beverages, a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy citrus notes perfectly.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled lemon juice can taste artificial.
• Do not overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery.
• Add Parmesan gradually and off heat to prevent the sauce from curdling.
• Reserve pasta water—it helps adjust the sauce consistency.
• For extra richness, add a touch of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce.

Variations

• Spicy Lemon Shrimp Penne: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken Penne: Substitute shrimp with sliced chicken breast for a hearty variation.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit shrimp and add roasted vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus.
• Herb Twist: Add fresh basil, thyme, or dill for extra aromatic depth.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese slightly.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate after thawing. However, you can freeze cooked shrimp separately for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore texture. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can overcook the shrimp.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk (for blending sauce)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander
• Lemon zester or microplane

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but add them at the end of cooking just to warm through to prevent overcooking.

Q2: Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can use whole milk or half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner. Add extra Parmesan to thicken.

Q3: What kind of pasta works best?
Penne holds sauce well, but fettuccine, linguine, or rotini also work beautifully.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine just before serving.

Q5: How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Pepper Shrimp Penne is a stunning blend of creamy indulgence and citrusy freshness—a dish that feels elegant yet approachable. The lemon brightens the richness of the Alfredo-like sauce, while black pepper adds a subtle warmth that enhances the shrimp’s delicate sweetness. Perfect for dinner parties or simple weeknight meals, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort. Once you try it, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for when you crave a comforting, flavor-packed pasta dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.