If you’re looking for a dinner that’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, this Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach recipe has you covered. Creamy, cheesy pasta with tender shrimp and fresh greens makes it a weeknight winner and a total crowd-pleaser. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the kind of meal that’s easy enough for a Tuesday but fancy enough for guests.
This dish combines al dente penne pasta, juicy shrimp, and vibrant spinach (or kale or arugula, if you’re feeling adventurous), all coated in melty mozzarella or Swiss cheese. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies without sacrificing flavor. If you loved our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, this seafood spin will have you hooked.
What is Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach?
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is a quick and comforting pasta dish that pairs the natural sweetness of shrimp with the rich creaminess of melted cheese and the earthiness of fresh greens. It’s like your favorite creamy shrimp pasta, but with an extra nutritional boost from spinach. And as they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach — especially when it’s full of cheesy pasta goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Dish
Creamy and Flavorful: The combo of melted cheese, shrimp, garlic, and herbs makes every bite taste restaurant-worthy.
One-Pan Simplicity: With minimal cleanup and simple steps, it’s perfect for busy nights.
Flexible Greens: Use spinach, kale, or arugula for different flavors and textures.
If you’re a fan of our Shrimp Alfredo or Baked Ziti with Spinach, this pasta blends the best of both worlds. Fast, cheesy, and full of flavor — what’s not to love?
How to Make Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach
Quick Overview
This dish cooks in less than 30 minutes and only uses a few key ingredients. Boil the pasta and shrimp together, then finish everything in a skillet with butter, oil, cheese, and fresh greens.
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, and garlic salt (to taste)
- 8 cups water
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook Pasta & Shrimp: Boil pasta according to package instructions. In the last 5 minutes, add shrimp to the water. Cook until shrimp turn pink. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Keep Warm: Set pasta and shrimp aside, keeping them warm.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet, melt butter and oil over medium heat.
- Toss Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Stir for 2 minutes.
- Add Greens: Add chopped spinach (or other greens) and cook until just wilted, about 1 minute. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to help steam the greens.
- Combine & Cheese: Add shrimp and sprinkle with cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts. Avoid overcooking.
- Final Touches: Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with dried cilantro if desired.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
What to Serve With Shrimp Pasta & Spinach
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Caesar or garden salad
- Roasted vegetables (e.g., zucchini, asparagus)
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but sides like bread or salad round it out into a full meal.
Top Tips for Perfect Shrimp Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Add it in the last few minutes of boiling pasta to keep it tender.
- Use Fresh Greens: Avoid frozen spinach to keep the texture light and fresh.
- Cheese Options: Mozzarella melts beautifully, but Swiss adds a nutty twist. Try both!
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving shrimp for too long.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cheese and shrimp can become rubbery when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes! Add it during the skillet step to warm through instead of boiling.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely. Fusilli, rotini, or bowties work well too.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Omit the shrimp and add mushrooms or chickpeas for a meatless version.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes — just adjust seasonings to keep it mild.
Conclusion
Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta & Spinach is the ultimate quick-fix dinner — creamy, garlicky, and loaded with protein and greens. It’s comfort food with a nutritious twist, perfect for weeknights, guests, or whenever you want a flavorful, satisfying meal without a ton of effort.
Ingredients
- 1 box penne pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups fresh chopped spinach, kale, or arugula
- 1 cup mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp salt, pepper, and garlic salt (to taste)
- 8 cups water
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
Instructions
- Boil pasta according to package directions. In the last 5 minutes, add shrimp. Cook until pink. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Set pasta and shrimp aside, keeping them warm.
- In a skillet, melt butter and oil over medium heat.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat and season with salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Stir for 2 minutes.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Add a splash of pasta water if needed.
- Add shrimp and sprinkle with cheese. Stir gently until cheese melts.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with dried cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time—just add in the skillet step to heat through. Mozzarella provides a creamy finish, while Swiss offers a nutty depth. Avoid frozen greens for best texture.