Looking for a dinner recipe that’s equal parts comforting and elegant? Say hello to the ultimate creamy Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach! This dish is a triple threat: it’s indulgent, packed with flavor, and surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or need a crowd-pleaser for a family meal, this recipe has you covered.

I still remember the first time I made this. It was a cozy Friday night, and I was determined to create something special without ordering takeout. The results? Let’s just say my family was ready to make it a weekly tradition. Now, I’m sharing it with you so you can experience the same culinary magic!

Why This Dish Will Win You Over

Picture this: perfectly al dente penne pasta swirled in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, dotted with vibrant spinach, and topped with juicy, garlicky shrimp. Every bite is a harmonious blend of comforting textures and bold flavors. Plus, it comes together in less time than you’d think!

Let’s Get Cooking: Starting with the Pasta and Shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

First things first, you’ll need to cook 12 ounces of penne pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. This is a little trick to flavor your pasta from the inside out.

Cook the penne according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Once done, drain it well and set it aside. Pro tip: Save a cup of the starchy pasta water. You’ll thank me later if you need to loosen the sauce!

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp Like a Pro

While the pasta is cooking, it’s shrimp time! Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once your skillet is hot, toss the shrimp in and let them sizzle. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn that irresistible shade of pink. Be careful not to overcook—shrimp can go from perfect to rubbery in the blink of an eye!

When they’re done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside. You’ll bring them back later for their star moment.

Secret Ingredient Spotlight: Spinach

I love sneaking greens into dishes wherever I can, and this recipe is no exception. Spinach not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness of the cheese sauce beautifully. In the next part, we’ll dive into creating that creamy, dreamy sauce that ties everything together. Stay tuned!

The Creamy Cheese Sauce: The Heart of the Dish

Alright, now that your pasta and shrimp are ready to go, it’s time to focus on the hero of this recipe—the creamy cheese sauce. Trust me, this is the kind of sauce that will have you scraping every last drop from the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

Using the same skillet where you cooked the shrimp (hello, flavor!), add a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Toss in three minced garlic cloves and let them sizzle for about a minute until fragrant. The smell of garlic cooking is always a sign that something delicious is on the horizon.

Next, add three cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir occasionally as the spinach wilts down, which should only take 2–3 minutes. It might look like a lot at first, but spinach has a magical way of shrinking as it cooks.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cheese Sauce

Here comes the fun part—making the sauce! Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Once the liquid is warm, it’s time to add the cheese. Gradually stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Let the cheese melt slowly, whisking as you go to ensure the sauce stays smooth and creamy. If you want a little kick, sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. They’re optional but highly recommended for a subtle hint of heat.

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the Parmesan adds saltiness, so go easy and taste as you season.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now that your sauce is silky perfection, it’s time to unite all the components. Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated in that luscious cheese sauce. Add the shrimp back into the mix, giving it a good stir so everything is evenly distributed.

Tips for Success

Don’t Rush the Cheese: Melt the cheese over low heat to avoid any graininess. A slow and steady approach guarantees a velvety sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of that reserved pasta water. It’s a handy trick to loosen things up without diluting the flavor.
Layer the Flavor: Sautéing the garlic and spinach in the same skillet used for the shrimp adds depth to the dish. Those leftover bits of shrimp flavor? Pure gold!

Variations to Make It Your Own

This recipe is a fantastic canvas for customization. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Add Veggies: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms along with the spinach for added texture and flavor.
Swap Proteins: Not a fan of shrimp? Chicken, scallops, or even Italian sausage make great alternatives.
Go Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach

Before you dive into your creamy pasta creation, let’s tackle some common questions. These tips will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this quickly by running them under cold water for a few minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.

2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Penne is a fantastic choice because its tubular shape holds the creamy sauce well. However, you can swap it for other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. If you’re feeling adventurous, try fresh pasta for an extra-special touch.

3. How can I make the dish lighter?

To lighten things up, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a plant-based cream alternative. You can also reduce the amount of cheese slightly or opt for lower-fat versions.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce may thicken and the shrimp can become overcooked when reheated. However, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately, store them in airtight containers, and combine them just before serving.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to avoid the cheese sauce separating.

6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the shrimp and add more veggies like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. You’ll still get all the creamy goodness without the seafood.

7. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. While it’s not freezer-friendly due to the creamy sauce, it’s easy to polish off in a day or two!

Conclusion: Time to Savor the Flavor

And there you have it—your new go-to pasta recipe for when you want something indulgent, flavorful, and just a little bit fancy! This Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach is a true showstopper that’s as comforting as it is impressive. With its creamy cheese sauce, succulent shrimp, and a pop of green from the spinach, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below with your thoughts, any variations you tried, or tips for making it even better. Better yet, snap a picture and share it on social media—tag me so I can see your masterpiece! Cooking is always better when it’s shared.