🍤 Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells

📝 Description:

This comforting, creamy pasta dish brings together the succulence of shrimp, earthiness of mushrooms, freshness of spinach, and the silky luxury of a garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this one-skillet wonder is indulgent yet wholesome and ready in under 30 minutes!

🍽️ Ingredients:

• 12 oz shell pasta (or pasta of choice)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sear shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
4. Add mushrooms and cook 3–4 minutes until browned and tender.
5. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes).
6. Pour in cream and chicken broth, stir, and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in Parmesan and let the sauce thicken slightly (about 2–3 minutes).
8. Return the shrimp to the pan, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together. Add lemon juice if using.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot!

🧠 Notes:

• If using pre-cooked shrimp, add it at the very end to avoid overcooking.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

💡 Tips:

• Don’t overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery fast! Just until pink and firm.
• Stir Parmesan in gradually to avoid clumping.
• For deeper flavor, sauté mushrooms until they release and reabsorb their liquid.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Servings:

4 main dish servings
6 servings as a side

⚖️ Nutritional Info (Per Serving – based on 4 servings):

Approximate values:

• Calories: ~580 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbs: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700–800 mg

🌟 Benefits:

• Shrimp: High in lean protein, low in calories, rich in selenium and B12.
• Spinach: Full of iron, calcium, and antioxidants.
• Mushrooms: Add fiber, B-vitamins, and umami flavor.
• Garlic: Natural immune-booster and heart-healthy.
• Balanced meal: Carbs, protein, fat, and veggies in one dish.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Q: Can I substitute the shrimp?
A: Absolutely—try chicken, scallops, or tofu for different variations.

Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: Not ideal, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. Best to refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I add more veggies?
A: Yes! Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas are great additions.