Indulge in this luxurious Spinach and Mushroom Shrimp Alfredo Penne, where tender shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, and wilted spinach come together in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: A gourmet meal on your table in just 30 minutes.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Combines fresh spinach, mushrooms, and shrimp for a nutritious and flavorful dish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Creamy Alfredo sauce and Parmesan make this a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz penne pasta: Or your favorite pasta shape.
- 1 lb large shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and tails removed.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Divided for sautéing.
For the Vegetables:
- 3 cups fresh spinach: Chopped.
- 1 cup mushrooms: Sliced.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced.
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: For a silky base.
- 2 cups heavy cream: For rich, creamy texture.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a subtle warmth.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
- Sauté the mushrooms for about 5 minutes until softened and golden.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
- Remove the vegetables and set aside.
4. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, mushrooms, and spinach to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta and toppings are evenly coated.
- Add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, if the sauce needs thinning.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Pasta
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and mushrooms for maximum flavor and texture.
- Control the Heat: Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be tender and juicy.
- Reserve Pasta Water: It’s perfect for adjusting the consistency of your sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Spinach and Mushroom Shrimp Alfredo Penne with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the shrimp and add more mushrooms or other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Conclusion
Creamy, indulgent, and bursting with flavor, this Spinach and Mushroom Shrimp Alfredo Penne is a dish that turns any dinner into a special occasion. With its silky sauce, tender shrimp, and earthy vegetables, it’s a guaranteed hit for seafood and pasta lovers alike.
Bookmark this recipe for your next family dinner or impress your guests with a meal that looks and tastes like it came straight from a fine-dining restaurant!
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