If you’re craving a meal that combines cheesy goodness with seafood flair, you’ve come to the right place. My Cheesy Shrimp Spinach Penne will satisfy your taste buds without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is rich in flavor and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing your guests. Let’s dive into the ingredients and start cooking an unforgettable pasta dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Extras
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Gather these ingredients to create a dish that is both cheesy and satisfying. The penne pasta forms the base, giving you a hearty bite. Shrimp adds protein and a touch of sweetness. Fresh spinach brightens the dish with color and nutrients.
Heavy cream brings richness, while mozzarella and Parmesan create that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave. Garlic adds flavor, and paprika gives warmth. Salt and pepper enhance everything, and fresh basil makes a lovely finish. Each ingredient plays its part in making this dish truly special.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
First, I fill a large pot with water and add a good amount of salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Once the water boils, I toss in the penne. Following the package instructions ensures the pasta cooks just right. After cooking, I drain the pasta and let it sit while I prepare the rest.
Sautéing the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season, and cook until pink.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat. I then add minced garlic, which fills the kitchen with a lovely aroma. After about a minute, I add the shrimp. I sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over them. I cook the shrimp until they turn a bright pink color. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, I remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet and simmer.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Next, I pour heavy cream into the same skillet. I bring it to a gentle simmer. The cream will thicken and become rich. I then stir in both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. With a little stirring, the cheese melts into the cream, creating a smooth, cheesy sauce. I taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
Combining Ingredients
- Add cooked penne, shrimp, and spinach into the skillet.
- Toss until spinach wilts and everything is coated.
Now, I add the cooked penne, sautéed shrimp, and chopped spinach into the cheese sauce. I gently toss everything together. The heat wilts the spinach quickly, and the sauce coats the pasta and shrimp evenly.
Serving the Dish
- Let sit to thicken before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
After mixing, I remove the skillet from the heat. I let the dish sit for a couple of minutes. This helps it thicken up nicely. Just before serving, I garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves. The bright green adds a beautiful touch and a fresh flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To get the best flavor in Cheesy Shrimp Spinach Penne, start with high-quality shrimp. Fresh shrimp makes a big difference. Use sweet paprika for a deeper taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. For a zesty kick, try adding lemon juice or zest. This brightens the dish and enhances the shrimp flavor.
Cooking Techniques
To cook shrimp perfectly, heat the oil but do not overcook. Shrimp only need about 3-4 minutes. They should turn pink and firm up. Remove them from the heat as soon as they finish cooking. For pasta, avoid sogginess by cooking it al dente. This means it should be firm in the center. When draining, do not rinse the pasta. This keeps the starch on the surface, helping the sauce stick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad. A light Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta. For a fun twist, serve with garlic bread. Pair this dish with a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. It balances the creaminess and enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
Variations
Ingredients Swaps
You can easily change the penne pasta. Whole grain or gluten-free penne works great. Both options keep the dish tasty while adding a healthy twist. You can also swap out the spinach for other veggies. Try broccoli, kale, or bell peppers. These changes add different flavors and textures.
Cheese Alternatives
If you want to change the cheese, there are many options. You can use sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. Fontina cheese adds creaminess and a touch of nuttiness. For a dairy-free choice, try vegan cheese made from nuts or soy. These can melt well and give a nice flavor without dairy.
Protein Choices
You can swap shrimp for chicken or mushrooms. Chicken adds heartiness, while mushrooms bring an earthy taste. If you love seafood, mix in scallops or crab. Both give a fresh twist to the dish. These choices let you customize the meal to fit your taste.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your Cheesy Shrimp Spinach Penne fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the pasta in airtight containers. This helps keep out air and moisture. Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids. They work best for keeping your dish tasty.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, aim to keep the flavors just right. The best method is using a skillet. Heat on low and add a splash of cream or broth. This helps bring back the creaminess. Stir gently to mix everything. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the dish. If you must use it, heat in short bursts and stir in between.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Shrimp Spinach Penne! First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. To reheat frozen pasta dishes, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in a skillet with a little cream or broth. This will revive the sauce and keep it flavorful.
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use a few options to replace heavy cream in this dish. Here are some alternatives:
- Milk and butter: Mix 3/4 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of melted butter.
- Greek yogurt: Use 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt for a thicker sauce.
- Coconut milk: One cup of full-fat coconut milk works well for a dairy-free option.
These lighter options help keep the dish creamy without too many calories. For non-dairy choices, almond milk or soy milk can be used, but they might change the flavor a bit.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp! Here are some tips:
- Thaw the shrimp: Place frozen shrimp in cold water for 15-20 minutes to thaw quickly.
- Cooking: Cook them just like fresh shrimp. They will turn pink when done.
When using frozen shrimp, check for any added sauces or seasonings. This helps you control the flavors in your dish.
How long does it take to make Cheesy Shrimp Spinach Penne?
Making this dish is quick and easy. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Prep time: About 10 minutes to chop veggies and thaw shrimp.
- Cooking time: Around 20 minutes for boiling pasta and making the sauce.
In total, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You can have a tasty meal ready in no time!
This blog post gave you a simple way to make Cheesy Shrimp Spinach Penne. We covered the key ingredients needed, from shrimp to cheeses. I shared how to cook the dish step-by-step and offered tips to enhance the flavor. You also learned about fun variations and how to store leftovers.
Remember, cooking is an adventure. Feel free to try new ingredients and techniques. Enjoy every bite of your tasty creation!
