Weight Watchers Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach
This dish brings together tender shrimp, whole-grain penne, wilted spinach, and a light, cheesy sauce for a satisfying, well-rounded meal. It feels indulgent with its creamy texture and melted cheese, but it’s made with healthier ingredients and smart portions to keep it Weight Watchers–friendly. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this pasta bake is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or even a meal-prepped lunch.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water to use later in the sauce if needed.
2. Cook the shrimp.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the spinach and garlic.
In the same skillet, add a splash of water or a touch more oil if needed. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the baby spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Remove from heat.
4. Make the cheese sauce.
In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Greek yogurt, and lemon zest if using. Stir in the Parmesan and half of the mozzarella cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture feels too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
5. Combine all components.
To the cheese mixture, add the cooked pasta, sautéed spinach, and cooked shrimp. Stir everything together until well coated. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish (around 9×13 inches).
6. Top and bake.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through. If desired, broil for the last 2 minutes to get a golden top.
7. Cool and serve.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve in neat portions.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it also pairs well with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables. A squeeze of fresh lemon over each serving can brighten the flavors, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds color and freshness without adding points.
Each serving is creamy, savory, and filled with tender shrimp and just the right amount of cheese to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
