Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort with creamy spinach mushroom shrimp shells, a dish that effortlessly combines rich flavors and textures into every delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, following the package instructions—typically around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta, making sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
- Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear beautifully. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Toss in the sliced mushrooms, spreading them across the pan for a nice sear. Allow them to sauté for about 5–6 minutes until they become golden brown. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, letting the garlic infuse its aroma.
- Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Stir gently, watching as it reduces and wilts down within 2–3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the skillet to a gentle simmer. Stir the grated parmesan cheese into the sauce, allowing it to thicken for about 3–4 minutes. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired sauce consistency.
- Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly in the rich, creamy sauce. Taste and season with additional salt or pepper to suit your preference. Garnish with fresh-chopped parsley before serving immediately.
Notes
Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture, but frozen shrimp (thawed properly) works in a pinch. The key to a creamy sauce is not rushing the simmering step; allow the cream and cheese to meld without boiling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g