Pin it A creamy flavorful pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp sun-dried tomatoes spinach and a garlicky Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a cozy Italian-inspired dinner.
The first time I made this Tuscan garlic shrimp pasta for my family they could not believe it was homemade. The aroma of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes simmering in cream filled our kitchen and brought everyone running to the table craving a taste.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp peeled and deveined
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or linguine
- Baby spinach: 2 cups (60 g)
- Sun-dried tomatoes: 1/2 cup (60 g) sliced packed in oil drained
- Yellow onion: 1 small finely chopped
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (28 g)
- Garlic: 5 cloves minced
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp optional
- Dried Italian herbs: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: chopped for garnish
- Additional grated Parmesan: for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water then drain and set aside.
- Sauté shrimp:
- While the pasta cooks heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp season with salt and pepper and cook for 2 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- Make the sauce base:
- In the same skillet add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the onion for 2 3 minutes until translucent then add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and broth:
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add cream and cheese:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream Parmesan Italian herbs and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add spinach:
- Add the spinach and stir until wilted.
- Combine shrimp and pasta:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss to coat everything in the sauce adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Finish and serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Pin it Everyone loves when this pasta makes its way into our dinner routine. My kids like to help sprinkle the Parmesan while my partner pours a crisp glass of white wine for us to enjoy alongside.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Tuscan shrimp pasta with a crisp salad and rustic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.
Ingredient Swaps
For a lighter version substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Gluten-free diners can use their favorite gluten-free pasta—just double-check that all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop adding a splash of cream or pasta water to keep the sauce silky.
Pin it This comforting pasta is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and make it your own with your favorite seasonal greens and pastas.
Common Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine or linguine hold the creamy sauce well and complement the shrimp's texture beautifully.
- → Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half can be used for a lighter, less rich sauce without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cook shrimp over medium-high heat just until pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side to keep them tender.
- → Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Dried Italian herbs are part of the sauce and add depth; fresh parsley is used as a garnish for brightness.
- → Is there a way to adjust spice level?
Yes, crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be added to taste for mild heat.