Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta is exactly what your dinner table needs. Imagine succulent shrimp swimming in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce, studded with sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and paired perfectly with fresh, bright spinach and tender fettuccine or linguine.

This dish strikes the ideal balance between indulgence and freshness perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, casual dinner parties, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort. It’s one of those recipes that looks like it took hours but comes together in less than 30 minutes.

So, grab your skillet and pasta pot, because you’re about to whip up a restaurant-worthy meal right at home!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Pasta

• Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
• Full of flavor: Garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan create a rich, balanced sauce.
• Nutritious boost: Fresh spinach adds color, vitamins, and a slight earthiness.
• Impressive yet simple: Elegant enough for guests but effortless to make.
• Customizable spice: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or skip for milder flavors.

Ingredients Breakdown (Serves 4)

Pasta

• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta — long, silky strands that hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

Seafood

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined — juicy and tender, the star protein of this dish.

Vegetables & Flavorings

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped — intense, sweet, and tangy flavor bursts.
• 3 cups fresh spinach — adds freshness and vibrant color.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced — pungent and aromatic, the base of the sauce.

Dairy & Fats

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter — adds richness and depth.
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream — creates that luscious, velvety sauce.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese — salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil — for sautéing shrimp and flavor.

Seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste — essential seasoning to elevate every ingredient.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) — adds a subtle kick of heat if desired.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander or strainer for pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente — usually 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Shrimp

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

3. Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute — don’t let it burn!

4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Cream

Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1–2 minutes to release their flavor. Then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Melt in Parmesan and Season

Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and thickened slightly. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

6. Toss in Spinach & Shrimp

Add fresh spinach and cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Stir gently to wilt the spinach and warm the shrimp through.

7. Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

8. Serve Immediately

Plate the creamy shrimp pasta, and optionally garnish with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh pop of flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Swap shrimp for chicken or scallops if you want a different protein.
• Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for extra richness; just reduce the olive oil used in the skillet.
• Add mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for more veggie variety and texture.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream (sauce will be less rich).
• Boost flavor: Add a splash of white wine when adding the cream for a subtle acidity and depth.
• Make it spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish balances creamy richness from the heavy cream and butter with the sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the fresh, earthy brightness of spinach. Garlic and Parmesan add savory depth, while the shrimp provide a tender, juicy bite.

Drink Pairings

• Wine: A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and seafood.
• Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with lemon or a chilled cucumber mint lemonade refresh the palate.

Side Suggestions

• Simple arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness.
• Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping into the luscious sauce.
• Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans for a crisp veggie side.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving Estimate)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	~650 kcal	Rich, filling main course
Protein	35g	High protein from shrimp
Carbohydrates	60g	From pasta
Fat	32g	Heavy cream and butter
Fiber	4g	From spinach and tomatoes

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Cook pasta and shrimp ahead of time and store separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Prepare the sauce up to 1 day in advance; gently reheat and combine with pasta and shrimp before serving.
• If reheating leftovers, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent dryness.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw fully before cooking and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

Q2: What pasta works best?
Fettuccine and linguine are ideal because their shape holds the sauce well, but spaghetti or penne also work.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Q4: Can I make this dairy-free?
Try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives, though flavor and texture will vary.

Q5: How spicy is this dish?
It’s mild by default; add red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for no spice.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time	Notes
Cook pasta	8–10 minutes	Al dente
Sauté shrimp	4–5 minutes	Cook until pink
Make sauce	8–10 minutes	Garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, cream
Combine & toss pasta	2–3 minutes	Add spinach & shrimp
Total time:	~25–30 minutes	Quick and easy!

Serving Suggestions

Plate the pasta in wide shallow bowls for an elegant presentation, twirling the strands to show off the shrimp and spinach. Garnish with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. For a casual dinner, serve family-style straight from the skillet or pasta pot.

Pair with a crisp salad and your favorite crusty bread to soak up the luxurious sauce — you won’t want to leave a drop behind!

Recipe Variations

• Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta: Swap shrimp for grilled chicken breast for a heartier option.
• Creamy Veggie Pasta: Omit shrimp and add mushrooms, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a vegetarian delight.
• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: Add Cajun seasoning to the shrimp and finish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and cayenne for a spicy kick.

Ingredient Spotlight: Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are intensely flavorful little gems that add a sweet, tangy, and slightly chewy bite to dishes. They come either dry-packed or packed in oil — the latter is more tender and flavorful. When using dry-packed tomatoes, consider soaking them briefly in warm water or broth to soften before chopping.

They’re rich in umami and antioxidants, making them a fantastic addition to creamy sauces, salads, and pastas like this one. Store unopened jars in a cool, dark place and refrigerate after opening for maximum freshness.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcook shrimp! They cook quickly — watch for them to turn pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
• Use reserved pasta water: Adding a splash of starchy pasta water to your sauce helps it cling beautifully to noodles.
• Freshly grate Parmesan: It melts more smoothly than pre-grated and elevates the sauce texture.
• Low and slow cream simmer: Simmer the cream gently to prevent curdling and create a silky sauce.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shrimp and cream sauces don’t freeze well because the texture can become grainy and rubbery. If you want to prep in advance, freeze just the cooked pasta and thaw before tossing with freshly made sauce and shrimp.

When reheating, warm gently over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Dietary Notes
Calories	~650 kcal	Rich, satisfying meal
Protein	35g	High protein from shrimp
Carbohydrates	60g	Moderate carb from pasta
Fat	32g	From cream and butter
Fiber	4g	From spinach and tomatoes
Gluten-Free	No	Contains pasta (can use GF pasta)
Dairy-Free	No	Contains butter, cream, Parmesan
Vegetarian	No	Contains shrimp

Final Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers both elegance and comfort without hours in the kitchen, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta is a winner every time. The rich, garlicky cream sauce perfectly complements tender shrimp and fresh spinach, while the sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of savory sweetness that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.

It’s a flexible, crowd-pleasing meal that’s equally suited for a romantic dinner, a family weeknight, or impressing guests. With quick prep and simple ingredients, you can have a restaurant-quality pasta on your table in under 30 minutes.

Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to pair it with a crisp salad and some crusty bread for the ultimate indulgence.

Happy cooking and enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

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