Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclosure policy.
Shrimp and cheese—it’s a classic combination everyone can agree on. And when you combine that hearty duo with some cozy penne pasta and tangy spinach, the only thing left to do is dig in!
This creamy combination of flavors will leave your taste buds singing; just one bite and you’ll be hooked for life.
It’s sure to become a weekly favorite!
What type of cheese should I use for this recipe?
Shredded mozzarella is incredible for this recipe. It melts well and blends with the heavy cream beautifully. You could swap it for parmesan, gouda, or provolone as well.
What type of shrimp should I use?
You’ll need to use deveined, peeled, and tails-removed shrimp. It’s best to use medium – large-sized shrimp. The bite is better and adds more yummy flavor to the pasta.
How long should I cook the penne pasta?
You’ll need to follow the specific directions on the packaging to get the best results. It should be al dente and not overcooked, or it will become mushy.
What is the best way to prepare spinach for this recipe?
You’ll need to use fresh spinach for this recipe. Place it in a skillet along with some olive oil and minced garlic. Cook until it’s tender, and then continue with the rest of the recipe.
Ingredients:
- Penne pasta, cook as directed
- Peeled shrimp, tails removed.
- Chopped fresh spinach.
- Minced garlic
- Butter
- Heavy cream
- Shredded mozzarella.
- Olive oil.
How to make Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach:
Step 1. Prepare the penne pasta as to package directions.
Step 2. Set to the side.
Step 3. In a large saute pan drizzle olive oil add the spinach with the minced garlic.
Step 4. Cook until tender.
Step 5. Add the cooked shrimp to the spinach and toss to combine.
Step 6. Add the pasta to the shrimp mixture, and toss to combine.
Step 7. In a small saucepan add the heavy cream and bring to a boil.
Step 8. Add the mozzarella to the cream and stir until all of the cheese is melted.
Step 9. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
Step 10. Garnish and enjoy!
Pin this recipe now to remember it later
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
Ingredients
- 1 box Penne pasta, cook as directed
- 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.
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the penne pasta as to package directions.
- 2. Set to the side.
- 3. In a large saute pan drizzle olive oil add the spinach with the minced garlic.
- 4. Cook until tender.
- 5. Add the cooked shrimp to the spinach and toss to combine.
- 6. Add the pasta to the shrimp mixture, toss to combine.
- 7. In a small saucepan add the heavy cream and bring to a boil.
- 8. Add the mozzarella to the cream and stir until all of the cheese is melted.
- 9. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
- 10. Garnish and enjoy!
Nutrition
Follow me on Pinterest for daily delicious recipes!
Now, remember to save this recipe on Pinterest for later 🙂
How much cheese should I use?
You will need 1 cup of shredded cheese. You can add extra if you prefer more.
Should I thaw the shrimp before adding it to the recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen shrimp for this shrimp penne pasta. If using frozen, you will need to thaw it before cooking, or it will be rubbery. Thaw in the fridge overnight or run under cold water.
How do I know when the dish is done cooking?
The shrimp will be pink on both sides and translucent.
What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
- Mushrooms
- Tomatoes
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Jalapenos
Can I substitute another type of pasta for the penne?
- Rigatoni
- Ziti
- Linguine
- Spaghetti
What seasonings or spices should I use for this dish?
You can add more seasonings and pieces depending on your preferences. Chopped parsley or oregano are great options. Feel free to play with the flavors to see what you like best.
What type of pan should I use to cook this recipe?
You’ll need a large, nonstick skillet. You can also use cast iron if you want.
Should I cook the shrimp and pasta together or separately?
You should cook them separately. The pasta should be cooked separately by following the packaging directions.
How do I store leftovers of this dish?
Cool the cheese shrimp pasta & spinach, then place them in the fridge. It will last up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in advance. It’s always going to taste best when served right away, but it does make good leftovers too.
More Incredibly Shrimp Recipes
Steak and Shrimp Pesto Linguine – Everyone will rave about this showstopper.
Corn and Shrimp Fritters – These fritters are addictive!
Sausage and Shrimp Gumbo – Incredible flavors!
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp – Better than takeout!
Get new recipes weekly plus our FREE ebook!
