Peppered Shrimp Alfredo

Recipe View Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. (Total time: 8-10 minutes)

Recipe View While the pasta cooks, melt butter with olive oil in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add diced red bell pepper, mushrooms, and minced garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the peppers slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. (Total time: 8-11 minutes)

Recipe View Add the shrimp to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. (Total time: 3-4 minutes)

Recipe View Reduce heat to low. Stir in Alfredo sauce, Romano cheese, and heavy cream. Simmer gently, stirring constantly, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. (Total time: 3-5 minutes)

Recipe View Season the sauce with cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. (Total time: <1 minute)

Recipe View Add the drained penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Ensure the pasta is well-combined with the sauce. (Total time: 1-2 minutes)

Recipe View Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Romano cheese, if desired. (Total time: <1 minute)