Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells

Save this recipe on:

Picture the creamiest garlic parmesan sauce wrapping around tender tortellini, earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and plump, juicy shrimp—all in one bite. That’s exactly what Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells delivers. It’s an elegant yet comforting dinner that looks gourmet but comes together quickly enough for a weeknight.

Every forkful is layered with rich textures and savory flavor. The mushrooms bring an umami warmth, the spinach offers freshness, and the shrimp adds a succulent bite. All of it swirls together in a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to each pasta shell. Whether you’re craving comfort or impressing guests, this dish brings it home.

---

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells?

While traditional stuffed shells could work, this recipe shines with fresh cheese tortellini. It holds the sauce well and complements the shrimp without overpowering it. If you’re looking for alternatives, try small shells or orecchiette for their scoop-like shape that catches the sauce and shrimp bits perfectly.

---

Ingredients for the Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells

Shrimp – Use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Their sweet, briny flavor is central to the dish.

Mushrooms – Baby bellas or cremini add earthy richness. They soak up the creamy sauce while providing a meaty bite.

Spinach – Fresh baby spinach wilts into the sauce, adding color, nutrients, and a subtle bitter note to balance the creaminess.

Cheese Tortellini – These plump pasta pockets offer a cheesy contrast and satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and sauce.

Heavy Cream – Forms the base of the luxurious sauce, blending everything together into a silky coating.

Garlic & Onion – These aromatics lay the flavorful foundation and balance the richness with savory depth.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce while keeping it smooth.

Olive Oil & Butter – Used to sauté the shrimp and vegetables, bringing in richness and golden flavor.

Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes) – Enhance and balance the flavors; red pepper adds a light kick without overpowering.

---

How To Make the Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and a bit of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another pat of butter. Sauté chopped onions and mushrooms until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, just 2-3 minutes. This adds a fresh layer and vibrant color to the sauce base.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the skillet. Bring to a light simmer and mix in grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Shrimp

Meanwhile, cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions. Drain and add to the skillet, then return the shrimp. Toss everything gently to coat in the sauce.

Step 6: Final Seasoning Touch

Finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for a minute before serving hot.

---

How to Serve and Store Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells

Serve this creamy dish straight from the skillet, garnished with extra parmesan and cracked pepper. For added flair, sprinkle with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the richness.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp Shells?

Garlic Bread

Its crispy edges and buttery flavor make it the ideal partner for soaking up leftover sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy Caesar salad cuts through the richness of the pasta and brings balance to your plate.

Roasted Asparagus

A simple side of roasted asparagus adds earthy depth and complements the shrimp beautifully.

Lemon Green Beans

Lightly blanched green beans with a lemon drizzle add freshness and color.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers offer a cool, bright contrast.

Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Baked zucchini slices with a cheesy crust add crunch and a low-carb flair.

Chilled White Wine

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the creamy seafood notes effortlessly.

---

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy shrimp pasta, you’ll definitely want to try these other indulgent meals:

• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a hearty vegetarian take.
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe when you’re craving ground beef comfort.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a simple one-pot option.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re in the mood for bold, beefy flavor.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a hearty twist on Alfredo.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add sun-dried tomatoes or skip the red pepper flakes? Did you swap the tortellini for shells?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome—let’s cook better, together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and more on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and find your next crave-worthy favorite!

---

Save this recipe on: