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Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta
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Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort food that feels like a fancy restaurant dish but comes together in just 30 minutes.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 540kcal
Cost $18-$22

Ingredients

  • 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped (for garnish)
  • Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
  • Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
  • Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then stir in sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add Cheese & Spinach: Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Toss in spinach and let it wilt for a minute or two.
  • Combine Everything: Return shrimp to the pan, add cooked pasta, and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  • Finish & Serve: Add a squeeze of lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

  1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh (or thawed) large shrimp make a big flavor difference.
  2. Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Once they turn pink and curl, remove them quickly to keep them juicy.
  3. Control Creaminess: Add pasta water gradually to reach your perfect sauce texture.
  4. Grate Your Own Cheese: It melts better and enhances the creamy texture without clumping.