Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach

Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach – A Creamy Delight

 

If you’re a fan of pasta, seafood, and creamy sauces, then Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a dish made just for you. This recipe combines succulent shrimp, tender spinach, and al dente penne pasta in a luscious and cheesy sauce that’s pure comfort in a bowl. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving seconds. So, let’s embark on a culinary journey and learn how to create this delightful pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• 5 oz fresh baby spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the Penne:
   • Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp:

2. Season the Shrimp:
   • In a bowl, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
3. Sauté the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Make the Sauce:

4. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
5. Add Spinach and Tomatoes:
   • Add the fresh baby spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
6. Stir in Heavy Cream:
   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
7. Add Parmesan Cheese:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Combine and Serve:

8. Combine All Elements:
   • Add the cooked penne pasta and sautéed shrimp back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to combine.
9. Final Seasoning:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
10. Garnish and Serve:
    • If desired, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Cook’s Notes:

• Variations: Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms.
• Cheese Blend: For an even creamier sauce, you can mix different types of cheese like mozzarella or Gruyère with the Parmesan.

Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a culinary masterpiece that combines the richness of creamy sauce with the delightful flavors of shrimp and spinach. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. So, grab your apron and enjoy the delightful journey of creating and savoring this delicious pasta recipe.