If you are craving a dish that packs a punch of flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes, this Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender shrimp cooked to perfection mingle with a luscious, creamy sauce infused with garlic, smoky paprika, and a fiery kick from red pepper flakes and cayenne. Twirling strands of linguine soak up every bit of this vibrant sauce, making each bite a harmonious blend of spice, creaminess, and fresh herbs. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises a satisfying, show-stopping plate that’s sure to impress and delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is delightfully straightforward with simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that each bring something essential to the dish, from texture and spice to richness and color. These pantry staples come together to create a meal that feels both comforting and exciting.
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti: Long pasta works best to capture the creamy sauce with every forkful.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, offering tender texture and a subtly sweet flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and shrimp evenly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic provides an irresistible aromatic base that enhances every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Brings heat to brighten the flavors—adjust to match your spice tolerance.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a deep, smoky undertone that elevates the spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For an extra touch of fiery bite that wakes up your palate.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Helps create the saucy base with moisture and subtle flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently creamy and smooth.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish that binds the sauce together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains a perfect bite without getting mushy. Drain the pasta but be sure to save about half a cup of the pasta cooking water to adjust your sauce later. This simple step will help your sauce cling beautifully to the noodles.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, just about a minute—don’t let it burn, as that would add bitterness. Then add the shrimp, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. As the shrimp cook, season them generously with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Once cooked through, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside to keep the skillet ready for the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, scrape up any delicious browned bits left from the shrimp; these bits pack incredible flavor. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavor. Then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit and coats your spoon deliciously.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with your creamy sauce, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together so the linguine or spaghetti is thoroughly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water little by little to loosen it to your desired consistency. This step ensures every strand is enveloped in that spicy, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a lovely burst of color and freshness right before serving. This final touch complements the spicy richness of the dish perfectly, inviting everyone to dig in and savor every bite straight from the skillet or plated elegantly.
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh parsley garnish is ideal for brightening the dish, but you can also get creative by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan to enhance the flavors and add a zingy contrast to the creamy heat.
Side Dishes
This Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables adds variety in texture and freshness that balances the richness of the sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side. Alternatively, place the pasta in a large serving bowl with the shrimp artfully arranged on top and garnish generously with parsley. This presentation is both rustic and inviting for sharing moments with friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor when reheated.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not recommended because the creamy sauce and pasta may separate or become watery during thawing. If you must freeze it, store only the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers and the pasta in its own bag, then thaw and combine gently when ready to eat.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to avoid overcooking the shrimp and to maintain the dish’s perfect texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that could dilute your sauce.
How spicy is this pasta dish?
This recipe has a moderate spiciness from the red pepper flakes and cayenne, but you can easily adjust the heat level by increasing or reducing those spices to suit your preference.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as lighter or dairy-free alternatives, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Long pastas like linguine or spaghetti work best because they twirl beautifully with the sauce, making every bite rich and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or artichokes and use vegetable broth. For vegan, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives along with the veggies for a delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe is one of those meals that effortlessly balances bold heat, creamy comfort, and fresh brightness in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy dinner for one, it’s an easy, impressive dish that deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with those spicy, garlicky shrimp wrapped in decadent sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
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Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Spicy Shrimp Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish ready in just 25 minutes. Tender linguine tossed with succulent shrimp cooked in a garlicky, smoky, and creamy sauce with a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this recipe balances spice and creaminess perfectly, ideal for a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked al dente, drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use, then set the pasta aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Season the shrimp with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, scrape up any browned bits left from cooking the shrimp. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sauce, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta and shrimp with the spicy creamy sauce. Use the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta and shrimp to serving plates or a large bowl. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to control the level of spiciness.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free if needed.
- Reserve pasta water to help emulsify and loosen the sauce for better texture.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with a vegetarian-friendly hard cheese to suit dietary needs.
