This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with juicy shrimp, vibrant spinach, and rich sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy sauce, it’s an elegant yet easy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Serve it with your favorite pasta for a restaurant-quality dinner at home!
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
Total Time
- 30 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed or dry, rehydrated if needed)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 4 cups fresh spinach (or baby spinach), roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side , or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute , or until fragrant.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to infuse the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes , allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add the Spinach and Shrimp
- Stir in the fresh spinach, a handful at a time, until wilted. This should take about 2–3 minutes .
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Shrimp Prep: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess moisture.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften before chopping.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The combination of tender shrimp, creamy sauce, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a balanced and indulgent meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ready to whip up this cozy, creamy pasta dish? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort—it’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any night in!
