Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Name: Spicy Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Isabella

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This Spicy Shrimp Pasta is an irresistible dish that combines succulent shrimp, garlic, and a rich, zesty sauce with just the right amount of heat. Perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy bold flavors, this pasta dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and creamy. The shrimp is tender and flavorful, while the rich sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds a luxurious texture that complements the heat from the spices. It’s quick to make, yet so satisfying, and it’s a great way to elevate a simple pasta dish into something extraordinary. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this spicy shrimp pasta is sure to impress.

Ingredients

8 oz linguine or spaghetti

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Season with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if necessary to adjust the sauce consistency.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, I love adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the dish. Just sauté them along with the garlic.

Spice Level: If you like more heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Swap the Protein: While shrimp is the star of this recipe, I’ve also made it with chicken, scallops, or even mussels—each brings a different flavor, but they all pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken slightly as it cools, so you can add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, I recommend warming the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little bit of pasta water or extra cream to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure the pasta doesn’t dry out.

Related Recipes:

Quick and Spicy Shrimp Soup

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. I personally enjoy using linguine or spaghetti for a light, delicate texture, but feel free to experiment!

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer less heat, I suggest reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. You can always add a bit of heat back later by adding a sprinkle of chili flakes to taste.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. I like to run them under cold water or let them sit in the fridge for a few hours to thaw before using them in the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time. For example, you can cook the pasta and shrimp separately and then combine them with the sauce when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Spicy Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of spicy shrimp, creamy sauce, and pasta makes for a comforting yet exciting dinner. Whether you’re craving something quick or want to impress guests, this dish is a perfect choice.

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