Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
If you’re looking to elevate your pasta game, this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach recipe is a must-try! It’s a delicious twist on the classic Alfredo, infused with the rich flavors of shrimp and cheese. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises to impress with its creamy, cheesy goodness and a hint of spice that can be tailored to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a delightful upgrade from traditional Alfredo. It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the perfect blend of shrimp, cheese, and spinach. Plus, it’s versatile—adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your family’s palate. It’s a hit even with kids, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Pan
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 box Penne Pasta
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 cups Fresh Chopped Spinach, Kale, or Arugula (do not use frozen)
- 1 cup Mozzarella or Swiss Cheese
- 3 Garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tsp Salt, Pepper & Garlic Salt
- 8 cups Water
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp to the boiling water. Cook until the shrimp are no longer pink. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Keep pasta and shrimp warm.
- In a pan, heat oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the pasta to the pan. Toss to coat and season with salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring often.
- Add the spinach to the pan and cook for 1 minute until wilted. You may add an additional 1/3 cup of water if necessary to steam the spinach.
- Finally, add the shrimp and cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts. Avoid overcooking. Adjust seasonings to taste. Garnish with dried cilantro if desired.
Tips for Success
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the dish if it becomes too thick.
- Taste the Alfredo sauce before adding salt, as it can be salty on its own.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or milk.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Swap penne for fettuccine or medium shells if you prefer different pasta shapes.
- Use roasted red bell peppers for added sweetness and color.
- Portobello mushrooms can be a great addition for an earthy flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is a good source of protein from shrimp and cheese, and it provides plenty of vitamins and minerals from the spinach. Adjust portions to fit dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen spinach? It’s best to use fresh spinach, kale, or arugula to avoid excess water and maintain the dish’s texture.
Is there a substitute for shrimp? Chicken or tofu can be used as a substitute for shrimp, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
How can I make it less spicy? Reduce the cayenne pepper to half or omit it entirely to suit your taste preference.
Conclusion
Ready to try this delicious Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach recipe? It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that will surely become a staple in your home. We can’t wait to hear how it turned out for you! Share your experiences and any creative twists you added in the comments below.