Spicy Creamy Shrimp and Spinach Pasta
Ingredients:
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning as needed.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce.
Add the cooked penne pasta and toss until well combined and evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 495 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
