Best Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe for a Bold, Flavor-Packed Bite

Why Make This Recipe

If you love bold and spicy flavors, then this Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the dish for you. It’s a delightful combo of succulent shrimp, zesty garlic, and a punch of heat that makes every bite unforgettable. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also impressively flavorful, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, the mix of fresh ingredients ensures a tasty meal that is sure to please everyone at your table.

How to Make Best Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) (Choose fresh or frozen shrimp for succulent, juicy bites.)
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh garlic unleashes that signature bold flavor.)
  • 1 teaspoon Red chili flakes (Adjust these to dial up or down the perfect spicy kick.)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Use extra virgin for a rich base.)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (Adds silkiness and depth.)
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (A splash brightens and balances the spice.)
  • to taste Salt and black pepper (Essential seasonings that enhance every element.)
  • 8 ounces Spaghetti or linguine (Cook to al dente for the perfect bite.)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped) (A sprinkle adds vibrant color and freshness.)
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (Optional but highly recommended for a creamy finish.)

Directions: Cooking Instructions

  1. Begin by cooking the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente texture.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Toss in the raw shrimp and season with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
  5. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together until well combined.
  6. Drizzle lemon juice over the pasta and mix. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Best Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Serve this dish warm in bowls. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top gives a lovely touch, and offering extra parmesan cheese on the side allows everyone to customize their meal. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete dining experience.

How to Store Best Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to revive its texture.

Tips to Make Best Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Cook just until they turn pink.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili flakes or omit them entirely.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by substituting shrimp for chicken or your favorite vegetables, making it versatile while still packing a punch.

FAQs

  1. Can I use cooked shrimp for this recipe?

    • Yes, but be careful not to overheat them. Add them at the end to warm through.
  2. What can I use instead of spaghetti or linguine?

    • You can switch it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.
  3. How can I make this dish less spicy?

    • Simply reduce the amount of red chili flakes or use mild paprika instead for flavor without the heat.
Plate of spicy garlic shrimp pasta with herbs and red pepper flakes

Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta

A delightful combo of succulent shrimp, zesty garlic, and a punch of heat, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Seafood
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Seafood
  • 1 pound Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) Choose fresh or frozen shrimp for succulent, juicy bites.
Garlic and Spices
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic unleashes that signature bold flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Red chili flakes Adjust these to dial up or down the perfect spicy kick.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Essential seasonings that enhance every element.
Fats and Acids
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Use extra virgin for a rich base.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Adds silkiness and depth.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice A splash brightens and balances the spice.
Pasta
  • 8 ounces Spaghetti or linguine Cook to al dente for the perfect bite.
Garnishes
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped) A sprinkle adds vibrant color and freshness.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Optional but highly recommended for a creamy finish.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Begin by cooking the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente texture.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Toss in the raw shrimp and season with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything together until well combined.
  2. Drizzle lemon juice over the pasta and mix. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to revive its texture. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili flakes or omit them entirely.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating