Creamy Shrimp & Spinach Ravioli
A luxurious and flavorful dish featuring tender ravioli, juicy shrimp, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1 package (9-12 oz) cheese or seafood ravioli
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp butter.
- Sauté the garlic and mushrooms for about 3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until wilted.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked ravioli and shrimp back into the skillet, gently tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp & Spinach Ravioli
✅ Use Fresh Ravioli: Fresh or refrigerated ravioli have a better texture than frozen ones.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked.
✅ Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If it gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.
✅ Add a Citrus Touch: A squeeze of lemon enhances the flavors.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450-550
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbs: ~40g
- Fat: ~25g
- Fiber: ~3g
(Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands and portion size.)
Benefits of This Dish
💪 High in Protein: Shrimp and cheese-filled ravioli provide essential amino acids.
🥗 Rich in Nutrients: Spinach adds vitamins A, C, and iron.
🔥 Good for Metabolism: Garlic and red pepper flakes help boost circulation.
🧀 Creamy & Comforting: The Parmesan sauce makes it a satisfying meal.
Q&A Section
❓ Can I use frozen shrimp?
✔️ Yes! Just thaw them before cooking and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the sauce.
❓ What can I use instead of heavy cream?
✔️ Half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little butter can be a lighter alternative.
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✔️ Yes! You can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance. Reheat gently before serving to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
❓ How do I make it vegetarian?
✔️ Skip the shrimp and use sautéed zucchini or extra mushrooms.
Would you like any variations or substitutions for dietary preferences? 😊