Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Say hello to your next obsession: Spicy Shrimp Pasta! This dish is a knockout combination of tender shrimp, rich creamy sauce, and just the right amount of heat, all tangled up with perfectly cooked pasta. When I want something comforting yet a little bold, this is my hands-down go-to. It’s fast enough for any weeknight but always feels like an indulgent treat, ideal whenever you’re craving restaurant-level flavor at home.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the beauty of this Spicy Shrimp Pasta is how each simple ingredient shines, lending beautiful flavor, luscious texture, or even a little color pop to the plate. Gather these essentials and you’re halfway to pasta heaven—each part matters!

• Pasta (12 oz linguine or spaghetti): Choose your favorite long noodle to soak up all the creamy, spicy sauce.
• Shrimp (1 lb, large, peeled and deveined): Succulent shrimp cook fast and absorb all the flavors in the sauce.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds fruity richness and helps everything sauté beautifully.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The aromatic base—make sure it’s fresh for best flavor!
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon or to taste): The kickstarter for the dish’s heat; adjust for your spice level.
• Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends subtle smokiness and deep color to the shrimp.
• Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/2 cup): Deglazes the pan and builds layers of flavor into the sauce.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Key for a dreamy, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Gives you that salty, nutty finish and helps thicken the sauce.
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Freshness and brightness! Balances the richness in every forkful.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A sprinkle of green for flavor and a final fresh touch.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning all the way through.

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package directions just until al dente—this gives you that satisfying, chewy texture that won’t get mushy in the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about a half cup of the pasta water for later in case your sauce needs thinning out.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Let the shrimp sizzle for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate—they’ll make a glorious return soon!

Step 3: Build Flavor in the Pan

With all those tasty browned bits left in the skillet, toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (don’t let it burn!). Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up everything from the bottom of the pan, and let it simmer for 2 minutes. This step creates a deeply flavorful base for your Spicy Shrimp Pasta sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together and let it gently simmer until the sauce thickens just a bit. You’ll see it turn glossy and irresistible! Add a splash of reserved pasta water if you want the sauce a little looser.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss gently until every strand is coated in that lush sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan and pour in the lemon juice. Give it all a final toss, making sure everything is beautifully mingled. Scatter over the fresh parsley, and your Spicy Shrimp Pasta is officially ready to serve—hot and just begging to be devoured!

How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh parsley is a must—not just for color, but for a fragrant, herby lift. If you want to turn things up a notch, a squeeze of fresh lemon and extra grated Parmesan sprinkled over the top will make your Spicy Shrimp Pasta look and taste absolutely irresistible.

Side Dishes

Balance the richness by serving this pasta with a peppery arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or some simple steamed green beans. And don’t forget a hunk of crusty bread—you’ll want to mop up every last bit of that zesty, creamy sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, pile the Spicy Shrimp Pasta in a large shallow bowl, place the shrimp on top for maximum wow-factor, and finish with that signature parsley and lemon. You can also twirl the pasta into individual nests using a serving fork and spoon for a dinner party-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Spicy Shrimp Pasta cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to two days. The prawns and pasta will continue to absorb some sauce, but this pasta reheats beautifully if you add a splash of milk or water.

Freezing

While you can freeze creamy pasta dishes, the sauce might separate when thawed, and the shrimp will lose their signature tenderness. If you must, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to one month, but for best quality, enjoy your Spicy Shrimp Pasta fresh from the skillet.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the pasta gently over medium-low heat on the stove. Add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to revive the sauce, stirring often until heated through. Avoid microwaving the shrimp for too long as they can turn rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear instead of steam, locking in all that flavor for your Spicy Shrimp Pasta.

How spicy is Spicy Shrimp Pasta?

The heat level is totally adjustable—use less or more red pepper flakes depending on your preference. Start small; you can always add extra spice when serving!

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter dish, swap in half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less thick and rich. It’s still delicious and perfect for a lighter take on Spicy Shrimp Pasta.

Is there a non-alcoholic option instead of white wine?

Of course! Chicken broth is a fantastic substitute and keeps the depth of flavor in the sauce, so you don’t miss out on what makes Spicy Shrimp Pasta special.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely—just use your favorite gluten-free pasta brand, and double-check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Everything else in Spicy Shrimp Pasta is naturally gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Shrimp Pasta always brings a little joy to the table—fast, flavorful, and impossibly creamy with a spicy twist. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it your own, whether you want it fire-breathing hot or just a little tingly. Gather your favorite people and watch this dish disappear!

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