Description
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of shrimp and cheese with the freshness of spinach and the comfort of penne pasta. This creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta dish is perfect for seafood lovers and is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for seafood enthusiasts, cheese lovers, and pasta aficionados. It’s perfect for families, including those with picky eaters, as the delicious combination of shrimp, cheese, and spinach is universally appealing. It’s also great for anyone looking for a quick yet indulgent meal that’s easy to prepare.
Why it’s Great
- Rich and Creamy: The creamy cheese sauce made with mozzarella and heavy cream is decadent and delicious.
- Nutritious Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a healthy element, bringing vitamins and minerals to the dish.
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding different cheeses, vegetables, or even substituting the shrimp with chicken or a plant-based protein.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Large sauté pan
- Small saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 1 box Penne pasta, cooked according to package directions
- 1 pound peeled shrimp, tails removed
- 3 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 3 tsp. olive oil
How to Make Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and spinach, and cook until the spinach is tender and wilted.
- Add Shrimp: Add the peeled shrimp to the sautéed spinach and cook until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes. Toss to combine.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp Mixture: Add the cooked penne pasta to the shrimp and spinach mixture. Toss until everything is well combined.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and add the shredded mozzarella, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Mix Everything Together: Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta, shrimp, and spinach mixture. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce needs loosening.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or fusilli.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
What other cheeses can I use?
You can experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely, just use gluten-free pasta and check that your other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the best of seafood, cheese, and vegetables. Its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and fresh spinach create a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for any night of the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich and delightful flavors, and savor every bite!
