Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach

Introduction

If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious pasta dish, this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach is the perfect recipe! Juicy shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter, then tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and a rich, velvety cheese sauce infused with fresh spinach.

This dish is restaurant-quality but super easy to make at home! It’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup easy, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family with minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Rich & Creamy: A luscious cheese sauce coats every bite of pasta.
✅ Protein-Packed: Shrimp is lean, high in protein, and pairs perfectly with pasta.
✅ Nutritious: Spinach adds vitamins, minerals, and a pop of freshness.
✅ Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that both kids and adults will love!

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Ingredients (Measured in Grams)

For the Pasta & Shrimp:

• 250g penne pasta
• 300g shrimp (peeled & deveined)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (15g)
• 2 tbsp butter (30g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (10g)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp paprika (5g)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream (240g)
• ½ cup chicken broth (120g)
• 150g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (5g)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (3g)
• 1 cup fresh spinach (50g)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (8g) (optional, for thickening)

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Instructions: How to Make Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat.
4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Toss in the shrimp, season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
6. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

7. In the same pan, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer.
8. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth.
9. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt & pepper.
10. If needed, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and add it to the sauce to thicken.

Step 4: Combine Everything

11. Add fresh spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted.
12. Toss in the cooked pasta and shrimp, stirring well to coat everything in the cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

13. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
14. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy shrimp pasta!

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fats: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg

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Tips & Tricks for the Best Pasta

✅ Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor—if using frozen, thaw completely.
✅ For extra richness, add a splash of white wine when making the sauce.
✅ Want a lighter version? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk.
✅ Make it spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – This pasta stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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Serving Ideas

???? Pair with white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
???? Serve with a side salad for extra greens.
???? Enjoy with garlic bread to soak up the cheesy sauce!