Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta Recipe: A Rich, Flavor-Packed Dinner You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels luxurious but comes together in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta is your new go-to. Bursting with garlicky shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce, this recipe is the perfect combination of comfort food and elegance. The flavors are bold, the pasta is tender, and the sauce is indulgent without being overpowering. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this dish hits all the right notes, delivering restaurant-quality flavor from your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a time-saver and a crowd-pleaser. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while the shrimp add a delicate seafood flavor that pairs beautifully with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s versatile, freezer-friendly, and can be customized to suit your family’s taste. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.

Serving Size, Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium pot for pasta
• Tongs or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 12 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne work best)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, fresh parsley for garnish

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How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stir in Parmesan, and simmer until slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Add spinach and allow it to wilt. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or additional Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta

• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and continue to cook slightly when added back to the sauce.
• Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Use fresh Parmesan for the creamiest, most flavorful sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them rubbery.
• Adding spinach too early, which can make it soggy.
• Skipping seasoning layers; taste at every step to balance flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap shrimp for chicken or scallops for a different protein twist.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• Gluten-free pasta can be used to make this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions.

How to Store and Meal Prep

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Pasta can be prepped ahead of time and cooked shrimp added last minute for freshness.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for an appealing presentation.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, thaw completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Can I make this dairy-free? Substitute coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
• Can I freeze this dish? Creamy sauces can separate when frozen, so it’s best to freeze the components separately or enjoy fresh.
• Can I make this spicy? Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Related Post: Dumpling Lasagna
This Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Pasta is a weeknight hero and an entertaining staple, combining rich flavors with quick prep and minimal cleanup. With simple swaps and variations, it can suit any dietary preference or taste. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or looking to impress guests, this recipe delivers indulgence and elegance in every bite, making it a must-have addition to your recipe rotation.