How do I keep the sauce light yet creamy?

Light cream cheese and chicken broth substitute heavier cream, giving a creamy texture without excess fat.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Thawed frozen shrimp works well; just pat dry before cooking for best texture and flavor absorption.

Is whole wheat pasta necessary?

Whole wheat pasta adds protein and fiber, but regular pasta is fine if preferred or on hand.

Will spinach wilt too much if added to hot pasta?

Adding spinach at the end allows it to gently wilt while retaining vibrant color and nutrients.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

Vegetable broth offers a similar lightness and flavor, making the dish suitable for pescatarian diets.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Featured in: Quick Snack Bites

Enjoy a comforting Italian-inspired dish with succulent shrimp, whole wheat pasta, and a garlic-infused creamy sauce. This lighter Alfredo variation uses cream cheese and chicken broth for a rich texture without excess heaviness, while baby spinach adds freshness and nutrition. The protein-packed dinner comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Each serving is balanced with high protein, moderate carbs, and healthy fats, offering a flavorful way to brighten up your table. Sauté shrimp and garlic, blend with cream cheese and broth, then toss everything with pasta and spinach for a satisfying meal.

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By Samantha Rivera

Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:20:00 GMT

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta features succulent shrimp tossed in a light, flavorful sauce. | fryzia.com

A protein-packed pasta with a garlicky, creamy sauce but lighter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying yet fresh.

I first tried this for a quick dinner after work and was surprised how flavorful it turned out with just a handful of staple ingredients.

Ingredients

Shrimp: 150g, peeled
Whole wheat pasta: 150g
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Light cream cheese: 2 tbsp
Chicken broth: ½ cup
Baby spinach: 1 cup

Instructions

Cook Pasta:: Prepare the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions.
Sauté Shrimp and Garlic:: In a pan, sauté shrimp and garlic until shrimp is pink.
Add Cheese & Broth:: Stir in light cream cheese and chicken broth until incorporated.
Toss & Serve:: Add cooked pasta and baby spinach, toss well and serve hot.

Dive into Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta with vibrant spinach and a creamy, garlicky blend. | fryzia.com

This was a meal both adults and kids enjoyed together, especially with fresh parmesan sprinkled on top.

Nutrition Information

Each serving provides 410 calories, 29g protein, 35g carbs, and 18g fat making it well-balanced for dinner.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Variations

Switch out shrimp for grilled chicken or add cherry tomatoes for more color and flavor.

Enjoy a bowl of Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. | fryzia.com

This pasta is perfect for a cozy evening at home or any time you crave light comfort food without heavy calories.

Recipe FAQ Section

→ How do I keep the sauce light yet creamy?: Light cream cheese and chicken broth substitute heavier cream, giving a creamy texture without excess fat.
→ Can I use frozen shrimp?: Thawed frozen shrimp works well; just pat dry before cooking for best texture and flavor absorption.
→ Is whole wheat pasta necessary?: Whole wheat pasta adds protein and fiber, but regular pasta is fine if preferred or on hand.
→ Will spinach wilt too much if added to hot pasta?: Adding spinach at the end allows it to gently wilt while retaining vibrant color and nutrients.
→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?: Vegetable broth offers a similar lightness and flavor, making the dish suitable for pescatarian diets.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp and pasta coated in creamy garlic sauce made lighter, paired with spinach for a vibrant meal.

Prep duration

10 min

Cook duration

15 min

Complete duration

25 min

Created by Samantha Rivera

Classification Quick Snack Bites

Complexity Level Medium

Heritage Italian-Inspired

Output 2 Portion Count

Dietary considerations None specified

Components

Main Ingredients

01 150g peeled shrimp

02 150g whole wheat pasta

03 2 garlic cloves, minced

04 2 tablespoons light cream cheese

05 120 milliliters chicken broth

06 1 cup baby spinach leaves

Preparation Steps

Phase 01

Prepare Pasta: Boil whole wheat pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Phase 02

Sauté Shrimp and Garlic: Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add peeled shrimp and minced garlic, cooking until shrimp turn opaque and lightly pink.

Phase 03

Combine Sauce Base: Reduce heat to low. Stir in light cream cheese and chicken broth, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Phase 04

Finish with Pasta and Spinach: Add drained pasta and baby spinach to the skillet, tossing until spinach is wilted and all components are evenly coated with sauce.

Necessary tools

Nonstick skillet
Large saucepan
Colander

Allergy information

Review all ingredients for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about any item.

Contains shellfish, dairy, and wheat.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are approximate and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.

Energy Value: 410
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein Content: 29 g