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–+ servings

Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach

This comforting pasta recipe brings together tender shrimp, creamy cheese sauce, and fresh spinach in every bite. It’s cozy, indulgent, and ready in under 30 minutes — a true family favorite for weeknights or gatherings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food, Italian-Inspired, Seafood
Servings 4 people
Calories 610 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large sauté pan or skillet
  • Small Saucepan
  • Strainer
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 box penne pasta cooked al dente
  • 1 pound shrimp peeled, tails removed
  • 3 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella preferably freshly shredded
  • 3 tsp olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and sauté until just wilted.
  • Add the peeled shrimp to the skillet. Stir and cook until shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove from heat if needed to avoid overcooking.
  • In a separate saucepan, melt butter. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in mozzarella and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
  • Return the shrimp and spinach skillet to low heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to combine.
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
  • Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan, parsley, or a drizzle of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

Try adding red pepper flakes for heat, or stir in lemon zest for brightness. Pairs well with garlic bread, salad, or roasted veggies. Reheats beautifully — just add a splash of cream or broth when warming.

Nutrition

Calories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 580mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1350IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 3.2mg
Keyword Cheese, creamy, Pasta, Quick Meals, Shrimp, Spinach
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