Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta

This Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish that brings together succulent shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant pesto sauce. It’s a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that comes together in no time, perfect for weeknight dinners or an elegant meal to impress guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of shrimp, mushrooms, and pesto creates a delicious harmony of tastes.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite pasta or add more vegetables.
• Comforting and satisfying: Creamy, rich, and filling without being heavy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Fresh mushrooms, sliced
• Pasta of your choice (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work well)
• Pesto sauce
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic, minced
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and browned.
4. Reduce the heat and stir in the pesto sauce and heavy cream. Cook until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened. If needed, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly combined.
6. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or tofu.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based pesto, coconut cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese.
• Gluten-free: Replace traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta.
• Extra vegetables: Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating to maintain their texture.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne are excellent choices, but any pasta that holds the sauce well will work.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half, coconut milk, or cashew cream are good alternatives.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The sauce can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to cook the pasta and shrimp fresh for optimal texture.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free pesto and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly for a quick and easy meal.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Avoid overcooking the shrimp; cook just until they turn pink and opaque.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, a handful of Parmesan cheese whisked into the sauce can enhance its creaminess and flavor.

What mushrooms work best?

Cremini, button, or baby bella mushrooms are great choices for this recipe.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s possible to freeze, the texture of the cream sauce and shrimp might change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Conclusion

This Pesto Shrimp Mushroom Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that combines gourmet flavors with simplicity. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy preparation and versatile options, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

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