# Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach: A Delicious Recipe
If you’re looking for a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese, shrimp, and spinach, look no further than Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests and is packed with protein and nutrients. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and some handy tips to make this dish a hit at your dinner table.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
For a perfect Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach, gather the following ingredients:
### Pasta:
– **Penne Pasta:** 12 ounces (about 340 grams)
### Protein:
– **Shrimp:** 1 pound (450 grams), peeled and deveined
– **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons
### Vegetables:
– **Fresh Spinach:** 3 cups, packed
– **Garlic:** 3 cloves, minced
– **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped
### Dairy:
– **Cream Cheese:** 8 ounces (about 225 grams)
– **Grated Parmesan Cheese:** 1 cup
– **Mozzarella Cheese:** 1 cup, shredded
### Seasonings:
– **Salt and Pepper:** to taste
– **Red Pepper Flakes:** optional, for a touch of heat
– **Italian Seasoning:** 1 teaspoon
### Garnish:
– **Fresh Basil or Parsley:** finely chopped, for serving
## Preparation Steps
### Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
1. **Boil Water:** In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. **Cook Penne:** Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Usually, this takes about 10-12 minutes.
3. **Drain:** Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
### Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp
1. **Heat Oil:** In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
2. **Sauté Shrimp:** Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
### Step 3: Making the Sauce
1. **Sauté Onions and Garlic:** In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add Spinach:** Gradually add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until it wilts down, which will take about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Introduce Cream Cheese:** Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts and combines with the vegetables.
4. **Add Cheese:** Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
### Step 4: Combine Everything
1. **Mix Ingredients:** Add the cooked penne pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp in the creamy cheese sauce.
2. **Season:** Add Italian seasoning, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Top with Mozzarella:** Before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and let it melt slightly for a few minutes over low heat.
## Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach immediately, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and color. Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to create a satisfying meal.
## Tips for the Best Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
– **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Opt for fresh spinach and medium-sized shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
– **Customize Your Cheese:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like feta or cheddar to enhance the flavor profile.
– **Make it a One-Pot Meal:** For easier cleanup, consider cooking the penne in the same skillet after the shrimp, then adding the vegetables and sauce directly into the pasta pot.
– **Prep Ahead:** You can prepare the sauce and chop vegetables in advance, making it easier to throw everything together on busy weeknights.
## Health Benefits of the Ingredients
This Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach recipe provides a variety of health benefits:
– **Shrimp:** A great source of lean protein, low in calories, and rich in essential nutrients like iodine, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
– **Spinach:** Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains antioxidants and iron, promoting good health.
– **Cheese:** Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance, while adding delicious flavors to the dish.
## Conclusion
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is an ideal meal for any occasion. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to please anyone at your dining table. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can prepare a satisfying dish that brings joy and nourishment to your family. Enjoy the culinary journey, and don’t hesitate to share this delightful recipe with others who may be looking for a new dinner option!