Shrimp and Spinach Fettuccine with Garlic Cream

Shrimp and Spinach Fettuccine with Garlic Cream is a luxurious pasta dish that brings the comfort of Italian-inspired cooking straight to your table. It features tender fettuccine noodles coated in a silky garlic cream sauce, studded with juicy shrimp and fresh spinach. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, freshness, and delicate seafood flavor.

This dish feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make — perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The aroma of garlic and butter mingling with shrimp and cream is absolutely mouthwatering.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly balances richness and freshness. The creamy sauce feels indulgent, but the spinach and shrimp lighten it beautifully. It’s one of those dishes that make you feel like you’re dining at a seaside Italian bistro — comforting yet elegant.

I also love how quick it is to make — in under 30 minutes, you have a satisfying, gourmet meal with layers of flavor. The shrimp cook quickly and soak up the garlic cream, while the spinach adds both nutrition and color.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because:

• It’s quick and easy, yet looks and tastes sophisticated.
• The flavor combination of shrimp, garlic, and cream is irresistible.
• It’s nutrient-balanced — rich in protein, iron, and vitamins.
• It’s restaurant-quality but made with simple home ingredients.
• The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the fettuccine, giving each bite depth and comfort.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approx. 480 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook the fettuccine until al dente.
2. Sauté garlic in butter and oil, then add shrimp until pink.
3. Pour in cream, milk, and seasoning, simmering until thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan and spinach until wilted.
5. Toss pasta with sauce and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

• Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
• Remove the shrimp and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Cream Sauce

• In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and milk.
• Stir in Italian seasoning, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Spinach

• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
• Add the spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

• Return the shrimp to the pan, then add the cooked fettuccine.
• Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
• Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
• Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and adjust seasoning.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
• Serve hot and creamy!

How to Serve

• Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side green salad.
• Pair with white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay) for a restaurant-style dinner.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan and a few chili flakes for extra flavor.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the shrimp — they should turn pink and curl slightly.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• If the sauce gets too thick, loosen it with a little pasta water.
• For extra richness, add a teaspoon of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce.
• Always serve the pasta warm — creamy sauces tend to thicken as they cool.

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Alfredo: Add more chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Skip the cream and use olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers.
• Seafood Mix: Add scallops or crab meat for a luxurious twist.
• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular pasta with your preferred alternative.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
• Freezing: Not ideal, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed. However, if necessary, freeze for up to 1 month and reheat slowly while whisking to restore texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or pasta fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the sauce.

Q2: Can I substitute cream with milk?
You can use half-and-half or milk plus a tablespoon of cream cheese for thickness.

Q3: Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

Q4: How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low when adding cream and avoid boiling after adding cheese.

Q5: What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Fettuccine is ideal for creamy sauces, but you can also use linguine or tagliatelle.

Conclusion

The Shrimp and Spinach Fettuccine with Garlic Cream is a creamy, indulgent dish that strikes the perfect harmony between richness and freshness. The tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and silky cream sauce create an unforgettable flavor experience.

It’s quick enough for a weekday meal but elegant enough for a date night. Once you make it, you’ll see why this pasta dish is a timeless favorite — comforting, elegant, and absolutely satisfying.