There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it features juicy shrimp and vibrant spinach. This Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach recipe is one of those meals that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Ready in just under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a cozy dinner at home.
With the richness of cream and cheese, the slight bite of garlic and red pepper flakes, and the freshness of spinach, this dish brings together everything you love about a seafood pasta recipe—plus it’s all made in one pan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: A satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- One Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.
- Balanced & Creamy: A beautiful harmony of protein, veggies, and cheesy sauce.
- Versatile: Perfect for both summer and winter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta (cooked according to package instructions)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach, packed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, optional
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes depending on their size.
Step 3: Add the Spinach
Toss in the spinach with the shrimp. Stir gently until the leaves wilt and reduce in volume, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add in the cream cheese and Parmesan, whisking until smooth and melted. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together to coat in the creamy cheese sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the pasta in bowls, garnish with more Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately. A crisp green salad or garlic bread makes a great side.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Pasta
- Use large shrimp for a juicy bite. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Don’t skip the spinach—it adds a lovely earthy balance to the creamy sauce.
- Add lemon zest or juice for a bright touch that cuts through the richness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
Ingredient Substitution
- Pasta: You can use any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free cheese.
- Add-ins: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or sun-dried tomatoes add extra layers of flavor.
Make It a Meal
Serve this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
Storage and Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long to prevent rubberiness.
Why This Recipe Works Year-Round
This pasta is comforting enough for cold winter nights but light enough for a summer dinner. Shrimp and spinach keep it fresh and seasonal, while the cheesy sauce makes it a go-to comfort meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of creamy pasta and love shrimp, this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with protein and greens—all made with pantry staples in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a small family or planning a date night meal, this dish hits all the right notes.
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta cooked according to package instructions
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach packed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
- Start by boiling the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 3-4 minutes depending on their size.
Step 3: Add the Spinach
- Toss in the spinach with the shrimp. Stir gently until the leaves wilt and reduce in volume, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add in the cream cheese and Parmesan, whisking until smooth and melted. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Season
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together to coat in the creamy cheese sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate the pasta in bowls, garnish with more Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately. A crisp green salad or garlic bread makes a great side.
Leave a Comment