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Grilled Steak and Shrimp Penne Pasta Delight

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak and Shrimp:

  • Steak: Rub the steak with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak cooked more. Once grilled, remove from the heat and let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
  • Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from the heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Penne Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
  • Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

  • In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  • Add the butter, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 2 minutes. Add red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Dish:

  • Add the drained penne pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Gently fold in the grilled steak and shrimp, making sure the meat and seafood are evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

5. Serve and Garnish:

  • Divide the pasta mixture between serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil (if desired), and add extra grated Parmesan on top if you like your dish extra cheesy.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Steak and Shrimp Penne Pasta Delight

  1. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, date night, or a weekend gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It has a bit of everything—grilled steak, succulent shrimp, creamy pasta—all in one dish.
  2. Rich, Smoky, and Savory: The smoky flavors of the grilled steak and shrimp pair perfectly with the creamy sauce, making each bite a burst of rich, satisfying flavor.
  3. Protein-Packed: With both steak and shrimp, this dish is loaded with protein, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal.
  4. Versatile: While the recipe calls for penne, you can easily swap out the pasta for another variety, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti. You can also customize the sauce by adding herbs or other spices based on your preferences.
  5. Comforting yet Elegant: This recipe is the perfect balance of indulgence and sophistication. The creamy sauce and grilled protein make it feel luxurious, while the pasta keeps it comforting and familiar.

Tips for Making the Best Grilled Steak and Shrimp Penne Pasta

  • Choose the Right Steak: For this dish, tender cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work best. These cuts have great flavor and can be grilled quickly without becoming tough.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure not to overdo them. Once they’re pink and opaque, they’re done.
  • Make the Sauce Ahead of Time: You can make the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently before tossing with the pasta.
  • Customize the Heat: If you like a little extra spice, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce or drizzle the finished dish with a bit of hot sauce for a kick.
  • Rest the Steak: Let your grilled steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Pairing Suggestions

This Grilled Steak and Shrimp Penne Pasta Delight pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and drinks:

  • Side Salads: Serve with a crisp green salad or a Caesar salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
  • Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread or a loaf of crusty baguette is the perfect accompaniment for mopping up any extra creamy sauce.
  • Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, complements the grilled steak beautifully. If you prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works well with the shrimp and creamy pasta.

Conclusion

Grilled Steak and Shrimp Penne Pasta Delight is a mouthwatering dish that combines the best of both worlds—tender grilled steak, succulent shrimp, and creamy pasta—all in one satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to indulge in a comforting yet elegant dish, this recipe is sure to impress.

Its perfect balance of smoky, savory flavors with the richness of the creamy sauce makes it a meal that you’ll want to make over and over again. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to treat yourself (and your guests) to this incredible pasta dish!

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