Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season shrimp with half the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy. Season with remaining Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Add cooked penne, shrimp, and fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss gently until spinach wilts and everything is well coated in sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun