Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
A quick and delicious cheesy garlic shrimp pasta for busy weeknights that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine Choose your favorite pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined The star of the show!
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Because, garlic!
- 1 cup heavy cream For that luxurious creaminess
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese More cheese, please!
Greens and Seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach Or any green you'd like to use
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes Optional, for that little kick
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water, add spaghetti or fettuccine, and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Sauté Those Shrimp
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
Make the Sauce
- Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted to create a creamy sauce. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine Everything
- Add cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet, tossing to combine. If too thick, stir in reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Serve and Enjoy
- Plate and sprinkle more Parmesan on top if you're feeling indulgent. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your masterpiece!
Notes
If you didn't get fresh shrimp, frozen works perfectly too; just thaw it well before cooking. Swap spinach for fresh basil or another leafy green. For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy option.