Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach

Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach is a delightful and creamy dish that combines tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and cheesy goodness with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.

Ingredients

• 1 box Penne pasta, cooked as directed
• 1 pound peeled shrimp, tails removed
• 3 cups chopped fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Spinach

1. Sauté the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peeled shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Spinach and Garlic:
   • In the same skillet, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
2. Add Cheese:
   • Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

1. Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Spinach:
   • Add the cooked penne pasta, sautéed shrimp, and wilted spinach to the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach hot, garnished with additional grated cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this creamy and delicious dish!

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are fully cooked but not overcooked to maintain their tender texture.
• Cheese: For a richer flavor, you can add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
• Pasta: Cook the pasta to al dente to ensure it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.

Variations

Spicy Shrimp Penne Pasta

• Add Spice:
  • Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne Pasta

• Add Lemon:
  • Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.

Veggie Shrimp Penne Pasta

• Add Vegetables:
  • Add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the spinach.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread:
  • Serve with garlic bread or a fresh baguette for a complete meal.
• Green Salad:
  • Pair with a green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Beverages

• Wine:
  • Enjoy with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• Sparkling Water:
  • Serve with sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, linguine, or rigatoni.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Store the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce separately in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as Parmesan, Gouda, or Fontina for a different flavor profile.

Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a delicious and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender shrimp, fresh spinach, and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this pasta dish is easy to make and always a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful meal with your family and friends!