Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach is a delightful dish that brings together the best of creamy and savory flavors in a simple yet elegant recipe. The creamy sauce, rich with Parmesan and mozzarella, envelops the tender penne pasta and succulent shrimp, creating a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.
Ideal for both busy weeknights and more special occasions, this dish is easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal after a long day or a crowd-pleaser to share with friends and family, this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach offers a well-rounded option that’s as easy to love as it is to make.
Ingredients Overview
- Penne Pasta: The sturdy, tubular shape of penne pasta makes it an ideal choice for this dish, allowing each piece to hold onto the creamy sauce. Its firm texture when cooked al dente also provides a satisfying bite, complementing the softness of the shrimp and the smoothness of the sauce.
- Shrimp: Known for its delicate sweetness and slight brininess, shrimp adds a succulent protein element that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces. The quick-cooking shrimp also bring a touch of elegance to the dish, elevating it from simple pasta to something special.
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté the shrimp, olive oil enhances the flavor of the seafood and adds a hint of richness without overpowering the dish. Its high smoking point makes it perfect for lightly browning the shrimp to perfection.
- Garlic: Garlic provides an aromatic foundation for the dish, infusing the sauce with a warm, savory flavor that complements the shrimp and cheese. Its gentle sauté in the olive oil also enhances its natural sweetness, making it a perfect match for the rich, creamy sauce.
- Spinach: The fresh spinach offers a burst of green, introducing both color and nutrients. Its slightly earthy flavor balances the dish, adding a light contrast to the richness of the cream and cheese.
- Heavy Cream: As the base of the sauce, heavy cream delivers the desired rich and silky texture that brings all the flavors together. It provides the creamy body needed to coat the pasta and shrimp, creating a cohesive and luxurious sauce.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming the creaminess. It also helps to lighten the sauce slightly, making it less dense while still maintaining a rich taste.
- Parmesan and Mozzarella: Parmesan contributes a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce, while mozzarella melts smoothly, giving the sauce a stretchy, cheesy texture. Together, they create a perfectly balanced cheesy base.
- Red Pepper Flakes: An optional addition, red pepper flakes provide a hint of heat that cuts through the creaminess, adding a subtle kick to the dish. It’s an ideal way to customize the dish for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
- Parsley: A finishing touch of fresh parsley adds a vibrant garnish, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor. Its bright, slightly peppery taste brings a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy sauce, making each bite feel lighter and more balanced.
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
To start, cook the penne pasta until al dente, meaning the pasta should be firm to the bite, which allows it to hold up well when tossed with the creamy sauce. Boil a large pot of salted water, as this will infuse the pasta with flavor from the beginning. A general rule is to use about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water. Carefully follow package instructions for cooking time, but begin tasting a minute or two before the recommended time. For the best texture, aim to finish cooking the pasta around the same time the sauce is ready, allowing you to immediately combine them for optimal consistency.
Step 2: Sautéing the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, it’s time to prepare the shrimp. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm without smoking. Add the shrimp in a single layer, avoiding crowding the pan, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know the shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque; avoid cooking beyond this point, as shrimp can quickly become rubbery when overdone. For even cooking, flip each shrimp once it starts to pinken on the underside. After they’re cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside, as leaving them in the pan could lead to overcooking while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3: Cooking Garlic and Spinach
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute over medium heat, just until it becomes fragrant. Stir it gently to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can develop a bitter taste that could overpower the dish. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the chopped spinach gradually, a handful at a time, allowing it to wilt slightly before adding more. This helps avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking. The spinach will reduce in size as it cooks, becoming soft and vibrant green, and it adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor to the dish while providing beneficial vitamins and minerals.
Step 4: Preparing the Cheese Sauce
Creating a smooth, creamy cheese sauce is the heart of this recipe. Begin by adding the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet with the garlic and spinach, stirring gently to combine. Set the skillet to medium-low heat and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, which will thicken the cream without curdling it. Avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the cream to separate.
Once the mixture is warm and slightly thickened, gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring consistently to ensure they melt evenly. Adding the cheeses slowly is key to achieving a smooth consistency without lumps. Stir constantly to fully incorporate the cheeses, creating a rich and velvety texture. Season the sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired, adjusting these seasonings to taste.
A common pitfall in cheese sauces is overheating, which can lead to a grainy or curdled texture, especially with cheese like Parmesan that has a lower melting point. Keeping the heat low and stirring constantly helps prevent this, ensuring a glossy, creamy sauce that will beautifully coat the pasta and shrimp.
Step 5: Combining Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
With the sauce ready, add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing them gently to ensure every piece is coated in the creamy cheese mixture. This step is essential for allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce seems too thick, use a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Start by adding a tablespoon at a time, as pasta water contains starch that can help bind the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta. Toss everything together for a minute or two over low heat, just until the pasta and shrimp are warmed through and fully coated with sauce.
Step 6: Serving and Garnishing
To serve, transfer the creamy pasta and shrimp to a large bowl or individual plates. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley, which adds a burst of color and a light, fresh flavor that complements the dish’s richness. For a complete meal, consider pairing this dish with garlic bread or a simple green salad, providing a balance to the creamy texture and hearty flavors. Serve hot, and enjoy the delicious, cheesy goodness of this comforting yet elegant pasta dish.
Cooking Tips
To make the most of this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach, consider a few helpful tips. First, if the sauce is too thick, you can adjust its consistency by adding a small amount of reserved pasta water, which contains starch to help bind the sauce and make it smoother. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. Though these alternatives may make the sauce less creamy, they will still deliver a delicious, lighter result.
When it comes to the cheese, using freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella from blocks rather than pre-shredded options can make a big difference. Fresh cheese melts more smoothly, giving the sauce a creamier texture, while pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can lead to a grainy consistency. Pre-grating these cheeses before starting the recipe ensures they’re ready to add in small increments, helping to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth, velvety finish.
Variations
For those interested in putting a personal spin on the dish, there are plenty of ingredient variations to explore.
- Pasta Options: While penne works wonderfully, other types of pasta like fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle also pair well with the creamy sauce. Fettuccine offers a more luxurious texture, while rigatoni and farfalle provide additional surface area for the sauce to cling to.
- Seafood Substitutes: If shrimp isn’t available or preferred, you can replace it with other seafood options like scallops or crab. Scallops add a slightly sweet, tender flavor, while crab offers a rich and unique taste that complements the cheesy sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian alternative, omit the shrimp and add hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers. Mushrooms add a meaty texture, and bell peppers bring a sweet, slightly crisp element, making the dish just as satisfying without the seafood.
- Additional Vegetables: To add extra color, nutrients, and texture, consider incorporating vegetables like broccoli, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus. Broccoli provides a nice crunch and absorbs the sauce well, cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity, and asparagus introduces a tender-crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese.
These variations not only offer new flavors and textures but also make it easy to customize this pasta dish to suit different dietary needs or preferences, making it a flexible choice for any meal.
Nutritional Breakdown
This Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach is a well-rounded dish offering protein, vitamins, and minerals in each serving. Shrimp provides a substantial amount of lean protein, which helps support muscle repair and keeps you feeling satisfied. Spinach, a leafy green rich in essential nutrients, adds iron, vitamins A and C, and fiber, contributing to overall wellness and immune support. Cheese, particularly Parmesan and mozzarella, is an excellent source of calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
For those looking to reduce the calorie count, consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, and using less cheese or opting for a lower-fat cheese alternative. Portion size is also key; serving this pasta with a side salad or vegetables can provide a filling, nutritious meal while allowing for a moderate portion of the creamy pasta to be enjoyed.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
Shrimp: Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without consuming excess fat. It also provides key nutrients like selenium, which supports thyroid function and has antioxidant properties, along with vitamin B12 and phosphorus, which contribute to energy and bone health.
Spinach: Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green packed with iron, essential for red blood cell production, and vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function, skin health, and vision. Additionally, spinach offers dietary fiber that aids digestion and can help with maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic has been used for centuries for its potential health benefits. It contains compounds like allicin, which have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that may help fend off infections and reduce inflammation. Garlic is also thought to promote cardiovascular health by supporting healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health by improving cholesterol levels. These fats also provide a stable energy source and are associated with reduced inflammation in the body. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which protects cells from damage and supports skin and hair health.
Together, these ingredients contribute not only to the rich flavors of the dish but also offer a variety of health benefits, making this pasta both delicious and nourishing.
FAQs
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Answer: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, regular milk, or even a mixture of milk and a bit of melted butter for a lighter option. These alternatives will give the sauce a similar texture, though it may be slightly less rich.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency, as it may thicken when cooled.
What other cheese works well in this recipe?
Answer: For a different flavor profile, try using Fontina or Gruyère. Both melt well and add a slightly nutty, rich flavor that complements the shrimp and spinach.
Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Answer: Absolutely. Substitute the regular penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as those made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas, for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Answer: Yes, frozen shrimp works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to achieve the best texture and ensure even cooking.
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach
Description
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish with tender shrimp and fresh spinach, perfect for a quick and comforting meal. This rich sauce pairs perfectly with penne, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
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
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Cook Garlic and Spinach:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped spinach, cooking until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
4️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
Add heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet with spinach and garlic, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Gradually stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
5️⃣ Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss until the pasta and shrimp are fully coated in the cheesy sauce.
6️⃣ Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the Creaminess: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water or additional chicken broth.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color.