Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach

Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a delightful, creamy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It combines succulent shrimp, tender spinach, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s not overly heavy, and the flavors meld beautifully to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

 

 

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent, you’ve come to the right place. The combination of shrimp, spinach, and a luscious cheese sauce over penne pasta makes this dish irresistible. The fresh spinach adds a lovely touch of color and nutrients, making it not only delicious but also wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with others, this dish is sure to impress.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese

 

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet with the spinach and garlic. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well coated in the cheese sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cook Time:

• 20 minutes

Total Time:

• 35 minutes

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a delightful, creamy dish that brings together the best of both land and sea. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner at home, with flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table.