Nora
Golden shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and tender pasta shells come together in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that feels indulgent yet comforting. This dish balances the freshness of spinach with the savory bite of mushrooms and the delicate sweetness of shrimp, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Every bite is coated in creamy goodness, and the shells catch just enough sauce to deliver bursts of flavor. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet light enough that you won’t feel weighed down—a true crowd-pleaser for seafood and pasta lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells
This recipe is quick to make, loaded with fresh ingredients, and perfect for busy nights. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta shells, while the shrimp adds a pop of protein without being too heavy. It’s a one-pan comfort food that looks elegant but takes less than 40 minutes to prepare.
What Kind of Shrimp Works Best?
For the best texture and flavor, use large raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined. They cook quickly and stay juicy without becoming rubbery. Frozen shrimp also works beautifully—just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking so they sear properly and enhance the cream sauce.
Ingredients for the Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells
Each ingredient in this dish plays an important role in creating a creamy, savory, and well-balanced pasta meal:
- Pasta shells – Their shape holds creamy sauce beautifully.
- Shrimp – Provides sweet, tender protein that pairs perfectly with creamy sauces.
- Mushrooms – Add earthy depth and umami flavor.
- Fresh spinach – Brings color, nutrients, and freshness to the richness.
- Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor.
- Heavy cream – The base of the creamy sauce, making it indulgent and velvety.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds salty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
- Olive oil & butter – For sautéing, giving layers of flavor.
- Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes – To balance and enhance all the flavors.
How To Make the Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Add shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and just cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Toss in mushrooms and sauté until golden. Stir in garlic, cooking until fragrant, then add spinach until just wilted.
Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the pasta shells and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with sauce. If the sauce is too thick, splash in reserved pasta water until silky.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.
Serving and Storing Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells
This recipe makes enough to feed about 4 people generously. Serve it hot for the best flavor and texture, but leftovers reheat surprisingly well.
For storage, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving shrimp too long so they stay tender.
What to Serve With Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells?
Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect side for soaking up extra sauce.
Simple Side Salad
A refreshing green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
Roasted Asparagus
Lightly roasted asparagus adds crunch and freshness.
Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
For a heartier side, crispy potatoes work beautifully.
Bruschetta
Tomato and basil bruschetta add brightness and contrast.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
A cozy starter that complements the pasta’s creaminess.
White Wine
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully.
Want More Pasta & Seafood Ideas?
If you loved these Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
- Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells – a comforting vegetarian classic.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna – layers of cheesy, garlicky seafood bliss.
- Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta – lighter, tangy, and full of flavor.
- Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas – a Mexican-inspired twist with creamy shrimp filling.
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta – if you love creamy sauces with bold garlic notes.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add more spice? Did you swap mushrooms for another veggie?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add shrimp, season lightly, and sauté 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add mushrooms and cook until golden. Stir in garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Return shrimp and pasta shells to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.
- Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Don’t overcook the shrimp; remove them as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.