Description
This creamy Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach blends tender shrimp, penne pasta, and fresh spinach with a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with friends, this dish is both indulgent and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 box penne pasta
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 cups fresh chopped spinach
- 1 cup mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp pepper
- 2 tsp garlic salt
- 8 cups water
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
Instructions
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Cook Pasta and Shrimp: Boil water in a large pot. Cook penne pasta as per package instructions. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add shrimp. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Keep warm.
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Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, heat oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with garlic oil. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Cook for 2 minutes.
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Add Spinach and Cheese: Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed. Add shrimp and cheese, stirring gently until cheese melts and everything is combined.
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Serve: Adjust seasoning, garnish with herbs if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to maintain tenderness.
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture.
- If reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 30g