Introduction
Some recipes just feel like a hug in a bowl—and this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Spinach Rigatoni with Creamy Burratais exactly that. Juicy, garlicky shrimp tossed with tender pasta and fresh spinach, all crowned with creamy burrata that melts beautifully into every bite.
This dish is elegant enough for date night but simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner. From the seared shrimp to the burst of lemon zest and fresh basil, every forkful is layered with flavor and comfort.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes this one of my go-to recipes is its effortless elegance. It brings together rich, buttery shrimp with bright spinach and the indulgent creaminess of burrata. One skillet, one pot, and dinner is ready in less than 30 minutes. Plus, it feels fancy without the fuss.
If you love Italian-inspired meals with a modern twist, this is a must-try.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta 🍝
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined 🍤
- 2 tbsp butter 🧈
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 2 cups fresh spinach 🌿
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
- Salt and black pepper, to taste 🧂🌑
For the Topping:
- 1 ball burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish 🌿
- Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish 🍋
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp. You can also sub in scallops or chunks of salmon.
- Burrata: If unavailable, use fresh mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta.
- Spinach: Kale or arugula make great substitutes for a heartier green.
- Pasta: Rigatoni holds sauce beautifully, but penne, shells, or tagliatelle work too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic & Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add shrimp, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp is pink and fully cooked.
3. Add Spinach
Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
Turn off heat to prevent overcooking.
4. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked rigatoni to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in that garlic butter goodness.
5. Plate & Garnish
Transfer to a serving bowl or individual plates.
Top with a generous ball of creamy burrata.
Sprinkle with lemon zest and fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and brightness.
Serve immediately while the burrata melts into the warm pasta—pure perfection!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: They only need a couple of minutes per side.
- Use high-quality burrata: It makes all the difference in texture and flavor.
- Zest before you slice: Always zest your lemon before cutting it open—it’s easier and more flavorful.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with:
- A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling lemonade
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up every last drop
- A side salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Complete the table with these complementary recipes:
- This Baked Brie Appetizer – warm, gooey, and indulgent
- This Blueberry Lemonade – light, bright, and refreshing
- This Instant Pot Lasagna – for a pasta lover’s feast
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – the ultimate dessert finale
Storage & Leftovers
- Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Leftover idea: Turn into a cold pasta salad with a little olive oil and lemon juice the next day.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this rich, satisfying meal, check out:
- These Chicken Enchiladas – warm, cheesy comfort food
- This Baked Brie Appetizer – perfect for impressing guests before the main course
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp & Spinach Rigatoni with Burrata is one of those dishes that tastes like it took hours to make—but really comes together in less than 30 minutes. It’s rich, vibrant, and comforting all at once. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy night in or your next dinner party, it’s guaranteed to wow.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac on social or leave a comment below—I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Follow along for more fast-yet-fancy recipes that make everyday meals unforgettable.
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