Surf & Turf Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Surf & Turf Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, offering the perfect combination of land and sea. The grilled chicken provides savory richness, while the shrimp adds a touch of sweetness and elegance. The creamy tomato sauce ties everything together with its velvety texture and tangy flavor, making this dish both satisfying and luxurious. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne
• ½ cup grilled chicken strips
• ½ cup cooked shrimp
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Penne:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the tomato sauce, then stir in the Italian seasoning. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
3. Combine the Protein:
   • Add the grilled chicken strips and cooked shrimp to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Stir to coat the chicken and shrimp in the sauce, heating them through for about 2 minutes.
4. Add the Cream:
   • Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce for a creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine with Penne:
   • Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sauce, chicken, and shrimp. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the Surf & Turf Penne immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 2.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and shrimp and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
• Use Different Pasta: While penne is the perfect choice for this dish, you can use other pasta types like rigatoni, fusilli, or spaghetti.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before using.

Can I use store-bought tomato sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought tomato sauce, but for a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar or extra Italian seasoning to taste.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

To make the sauce even creamier, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the tomato sauce along with the parmesan.

How can I cook the chicken for this dish?

You can use leftover grilled chicken or quickly pan-sear fresh chicken breasts or thighs in olive oil until cooked through, then slice into strips.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pasta, shrimp, and chicken in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and reheat with the sauce when ready to serve.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas to the sauce for added flavor and color.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta.

Can I substitute the parmesan cheese?

Yes, if you don’t have parmesan, you can substitute with pecorino Romano or another hard cheese that grates well.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It typically takes 2-3 minutes per side to cook shrimp in a skillet.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Surf & Turf Penne with Creamy Tomato Sauce is a comforting yet elegant meal that combines the best of both land and sea. With juicy shrimp, savory grilled chicken, and creamy tomato sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. You’ll love how the flavors come together in every bite!

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