If you're looking for a dish that brings together bold flavors, a little bit of heat, and the comforting allure of pasta, then Spicy Shrimp Pasta is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only quick and easy to whip up on a busy evening but also fancy enough to impress your dinner guests. The plump, juicy shrimp coated in a spicy, garlicky sauce paired with al dente pasta creates a mouthwatering combination that you’ll want to make over and over again.

Spicy Shrimp Pasta


Whether you like a hint of spice or crave a fiery kick in your meals, this dish can be tailored to suit your taste buds. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that keeps cleanup minimal. Get ready to indulge in the irresistible aromas of garlic, chili, and fresh herbs filling your kitchen as you cook up this restaurant-quality pasta at home.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this delectable Spicy Shrimp Pasta:

  • 12 ounces of spaghetti or fettuccine (or your pasta of choice)
  • 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (use less or more depending on your spice preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup dry white wine (optional, for added depth of flavor)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or use half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Pro Tip:

Make sure the shrimp is thawed (if frozen), dried thoroughly using paper towels, and seasoned lightly with salt and pepper before you start cooking. This small prep step enhances the shrimp’s flavor while cooking.

Instructions

Get your apron on, and let's bring this dish to life!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly golden. Be careful not to overcook them! Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. Lower the heat to medium, and pour the remaining tablespoon of olive oil into the skillet.
  2. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and paprika. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices.
  4. Deglaze the skillet with the white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Allow it to simmer and reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and thickened.

Step 4: Combine It All

  1. Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the sauce.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Finish with Flavor

  1. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and stir gently.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper, if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Plate the Spicy Shrimp Pasta in bowls or on a large serving platter.
  2. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley, and an optional drizzle of olive oil for a finishing touch.

The result? A visually stunning dish with the vibrant red sauce clinging to the pasta, chunks of juicy shrimp scattered throughout, and fresh herbs adding a pop of color!

Tips for Customization

Everyone’s taste is unique, so here are a few ideas to make this dish your own:

  1. Dial Down the Heat
    If you’re not a fan of spice, reduce the crushed red pepper flakes or omit them altogether. You’ll still have a flavorful pasta dish without the heat.

  2. Add Veggie Power
    Incorporate fresh spinach, asparagus, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients. Toss them into the skillet in Step 3, along with the tomatoes.

  3. Make It Dairy-Free
    Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a creamy plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.

  4. Change the Protein
    Don’t love shrimp? Try scallops, grilled chicken, or even tofu as a substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Shrimp Pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread to scoop up any extra sauce. A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette makes the perfect accompaniment to balance the richness of the dish. And don’t forget to pour yourself a crisp glass of white wine or sparkling water with lime to complete the meal.

This Spicy Shrimp Pasta will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation. It’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for weekends, with the perfect marriage of spice, creaminess, and fresh ingredients. Bon appétit!

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