Shrimp And Spinach Alfredo Pasta

Name: Shrimp And Spinach Alfredo Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo Pasta for dinner; it never fails to impress. The rich, creamy sauce paired with succulent shrimp and fresh spinach creates a delightful harmony of flavors that beckons everyone to the table. From cooking the pasta to sautéing the shrimp, each step draws me in and fills my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or for entertaining guests, and it allows me to indulge in the wonderful taste of homemade Alfredo sauce.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:01:36.594Z

When I first attempted to make Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo Pasta, I was amazed at how easily the flavors came together. I opted for fettuccine pasta, as its shape holds the rich sauce beautifully, making every bite delightful. The key to this dish is to sauté the spinach with garlic just before adding it to the pasta, ensuring it retains its vibrant color and fresh taste.

To elevate the sauce, I always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts seamlessly, creating a creamy texture that's far superior to pre-packaged options. This simple swap transformed my pasta dish into a luxurious meal, and now it's a favorite in my household!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly
Succulent shrimp adds a delightful seafood twist
Fresh spinach provides color and nutrition, making it equally comforting and wholesome

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach for this Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo Pasta elevates the dish both in flavor and nutrition. Fresh spinach wilts quickly when cooked, adding a vibrant green color and a mild earthy taste that complements the rich Alfredo sauce beautifully. If you can’t find fresh spinach, consider using frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.

The shrimp should be large and fresh to achieve a satisfying texture. If you’re unable to get fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp will work well too. Just make sure to thaw them properly in the refrigerator before cooking. This allows for even cooking and prevents a rubbery texture. Remember, overcooking shrimp is a common pitfall; aim for that perfect pink and opaque finish for the best flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Alfredo Sauce

When making Alfredo sauce, the choice of heavy cream is crucial for achieving that desired creamy consistency. As you pour in the heavy cream, keep the heat to a gentle simmer; boiling can cause the sauce to separate. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt evenly and incorporate fully. This technique not only thickens the sauce but also enhances its flavor without any graininess.

If the sauce becomes too thick, don’t worry! Simply add the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the right consistency. This water, rich in starch from the pasta, will help to marry the sauce with the pasta, creating a silky finish. I love to taste as I go, adjusting the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a dash more Parmesan to get that perfect balance.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying this Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo Pasta, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, creating an even tastier meal when reheated. Just make sure to cool the pasta to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation.

When you reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can heat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish and stir at intervals to ensure even warming. This will help maintain the creamy texture and prevent the pasta from becoming dry.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Pasta

8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups fresh spinach
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Cook the Spinach

In the same skillet, add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Return the shrimp to the skillet.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mix until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Combine

Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired, and enjoy your delicious Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an even richer sauce, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo. Also, remember to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with the protein in this dish! While shrimp is a classic choice, you could substitute it with chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. If you're using chicken, cube the meat and ensure it's cooked thoroughly before adding in the spinach and sauce. Similarly, for a seafood lovers’ variation, adding scallops or lobster can take this dish to another level of indulgence.

For a different flavor profile, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for a hint of brightness and texture. These additions can elevate the dish and introduce new dimensions of flavor, making it even more exciting. Experimenting with herbs like basil or parsley can also offer a fresh finish, complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp and Spinach Alfredo Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy flavor without overwhelming it. Add some sliced avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats that enhance the meal's appeal.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, along with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese to give your dish a professional finish. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of pasta is best for Alfredo?

Fettuccine is traditional and great for Alfredo, but you can also use penne or spaghetti if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish lighter?

You can use a light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli, peas, or bell peppers would be excellent additions.