Name: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced; 1 cup spinach; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt & pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (to taste); Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

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If you love seafood dishes that bring a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinners, you’re going to adore this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spinach Recipe. It’s a beautifully rich, satisfying meal that combines tender shrimp with a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Best of all, it comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when you want something special without the fuss. This dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication and is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl on the bottom right is filled with peeled shrimp showing orange tails and light pinkish-white bodies. Above that, a bunch of bright green spring onions with white ends lies on the white marbled surface. To the left and above, there are small white bowls containing various ingredients: off-white flour, light yellow sesame seeds, chopped fresh light yellow garlic, red chili flakes, light yellow grated ginger, amber-colored liquid, dark brown soy sauce, a darker brown sauce, clear water, and off-white granulated powder. Two white eggs rest near the top left. A folded gray cloth is on the bottom left corner. The setting is clean and neat, with a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential for bringing out the bold, layered flavors in the dish. Each one adds a unique touch—whether it’s the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the creaminess of Parmesan, or the vibrant freshness of spinach—making every bite a delightful experience.

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Use fresh or thawed shrimp for tender, juicy bites that soak up the sauce perfectly.
2 tbsp olive oil: A good quality olive oil adds a fruity richness and is perfect for sautéing your garlic and tomatoes.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that irresistible aroma and flavor that sets this dish apart.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced: These add a concentrated sweetness and a chewy texture that elevates the sauce.
1 cup spinach: Fresh spinach brightens the dish with vibrant color and a mild, earthy taste.
1 cup heavy cream: This creates the velvety base of the sauce, balancing the savory and tangy elements beautifully.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan melts into the sauce giving it a nutty, salty depth that’s simply irresistible.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds warmth and complexity to the creamy sauce.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh basil: Add a little kick or a fresh herbal note if you like to customize your dish.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Start by warming your olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and let them sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic blooms with fragrance and the tomatoes soften just a bit. This step releases all those wonderful flavors right at the base of your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Next, add your shrimp to the pan. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning to season evenly. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes per side or until they turn opaque and pink. Once cooked, remove them from the pan to avoid overcooking—they’ll finish cooking later in the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir the mixture well as it simmers gently. This is where the magic happens, as the cheese melts and enriches the cream, turning it into a luscious sauce that brings the whole dish together.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Simmer

Throw in the fresh spinach and let it wilt slowly in the creamy sauce. The spinach adds a pleasing texture and a bright pop of color that balances the richness of the cream. Stir occasionally to help it blend in evenly.

Step 5: Return Shrimp and Finish

Finally, return the shrimp to the pan and stir gently to coat them in the sauce. Heat everything through for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly before you remove it from the heat. At this point, you can sprinkle on some fresh basil or red pepper flakes for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spinach Recipe

A white pan filled with a creamy sauce that covers cooked shrimp, scattered spinach leaves, and small red pepper pieces. The sauce is light beige and thick, covering all ingredients evenly. Small bubbles and slight browning indicate heat. A small white bowl of chopped green herbs is in the background on a white marbled surface, along with a spoon. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan add a lovely fresh and cheesy finish that complements the creamy sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle heat that lifts the flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Serve it over a bed of pasta for a classic option, or try it with fluffy rice or low-carb zucchini noodles for a lighter take. Crusty bread is also fantastic to mop up every last bit of that garlic and sun-dried tomato-infused cream sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, plate the shrimp atop creamy mashed potatoes or roasted polenta. You can also create a cozy bowl with sautéed kale or serve it alongside grilled asparagus to add a fresh, green crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and succulent shrimp.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spinach Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making for delicious next-day meals.

Freezing

While shrimp can sometimes become rubbery after freezing, if you plan ahead, this dish freezes reasonably well. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the creamy shrimp gently over low heat in a skillet. Avoid high heat to keep the shrimp tender and prevent the cream from breaking. You can add a small amount of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce. Dry shrimp sear better and result in more flavorful dishes.

Is it possible to make this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spinach Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a similar cheesy flavor. The dish will still be luscious and satisfying.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe itself is mild and creamy, but you can add red pepper flakes or fresh chili to introduce as much heat as you like. It’s very adaptable depending on your spice preference.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even bell peppers make great additions. Just sauté them with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to keep all the flavors cohesive.

What can I serve this dish with for a low-carb option?

Serve it over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or alongside a green salad for a delicious low-carb meal that still feels indulgent and full of flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spinach Recipe that makes any dinner feel like a treat. Its rich creaminess, vibrant colors, and quick prep time make it my absolute favorite for busy evenings when I want to impress without stress. I hope you’ll give it a try and fall in love with it just like I have—it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again!