Rich, garlicky, and bursting with flavor, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp with Spinach Pasta is a quick yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender shrimp, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes come together in a silky cream sauce that coats every bite of pasta beautifully.
🧾 Ingredients
8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
2 tbsp olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink.
Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook briefly.
Pour in cream and stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Simmer gently until slightly thickened.
4️⃣ Add Spinach & Cheese
Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
Add Parmesan and mix until creamy and smooth.
5️⃣ Combine Everything
Return shrimp to skillet.
Add cooked pasta and toss well.
Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
🌟 Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Pasta
Use shrimp size large or jumbo for juicy texture.
Don’t overcook shrimp — they should stay tender.
Swap cream for Greek yogurt + milk for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
🥗 Serving Ideas
Garlic bread or toasted baguette
Fresh arugula or Caesar salad
Lemon wedges for brightness