Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook shell pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2️⃣ Sear the Shrimp:
Season shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté the Mushrooms:
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter, then add garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are browned and fragrant.
4️⃣ Wilt the Spinach:
Add baby spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until just wilted.
5️⃣ Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6️⃣ Add the Cheese:
Stir in Parmesan until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
7️⃣ Combine & Toss:
Return cooked shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every bite in the garlicky cream sauce.
8️⃣ Finish & Serve:
Squeeze in a little lemon juice if desired for brightness, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm. Comfort food = delivered!
Pro Tips for Creamy Pasta Success:
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp only take a few minutes—remove them as soon as they’re opaque and curled.
- Sauce Too Thick? Add a splash of extra broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Cheese Melting Tip: Add Parmesan off the heat or on low so it melts smoothly without clumping.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Shells Pasta:
- One Skillet = Less Cleanup: All the flavor, fewer dishes.
- Seafood + Veggies + Cream? YES. The shrimp, mushrooms, and spinach are perfectly balanced in this rich sauce.
- Fast Yet Fancy: 30 minutes to restaurant-worthy results.
Nutrition Info (per serving, approx. 4 servings):
- Calories: 510
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQ – You’ve Got Questions:
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—just thaw fully and pat dry before cooking for the best sear.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Totally! Penne, rotini, or bow ties all work great with this creamy sauce.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prep everything ahead and reheat gently—add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Common Problems & Fixes:
Sauce separating?
Add the cheese slowly over low heat, and avoid high heat once it’s added.
Shrimp rubbery?
They were likely overcooked—pull them as soon as they turn opaque.
Pasta clumping?
Drizzle with olive oil after draining if it sits before being mixed in.
Flavor Variations to Try:
- Tuscan-Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and swap spinach for kale.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Protein Swap: Try scallops, salmon chunks, or even shredded rotisserie chicken!
For Cozy Dinners or Classy Nights In:
Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting friends, or treating yourself, this Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells brings gourmet comfort straight to your skillet. Elegant, simple, and wildly satisfying.
Made it?
Show off your creamy shrimp creation and tag us—we love seeing your kitchen magic!
