Looking for a pasta dinner that’s quick to make yet bursting with bold flavor? This Easy Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is your answer! Juicy shrimp, fragrant garlic, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes come together to create a dish that’s comforting, restaurant-worthy, and ready in just 20 minutes.
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners but also impressive enough for date nights or entertaining friends.
If you’re a fan of shrimp scampi, this recipe will feel like its fiery cousin—similar garlicky, lemony notes, but with a satisfying kick of spice. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Quick & fuss-free: From stovetop to table in just 20 minutes.
-
Better than takeout: Bold garlic, a hint of smoke from paprika, and the kick of chili flakes give this pasta layers of flavor you won’t find at a restaurant.
-
Versatile & customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or even go vegetarian with mushrooms or zucchini.
-
Family-friendly with a twist: Just the right balance of comfort and flair—simple enough for busy weeknights but elegant enough for special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish keeps it simple with pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients. Here’s what makes it shine:
-
Pasta: Spaghetti works beautifully because it twirls perfectly with the garlicky sauce, but linguine, fettuccine, or even penne can stand in.
-
Shrimp: Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp give the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw overnight and pat dry before cooking. Want a vegetarian version? Try sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a meaty bite.
-
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable for that punchy aroma and flavor. Pre-minced can be used in a pinch, but fresh makes all the difference.
-
Red Pepper Flakes: The star of the “spicy” element. Adjust to your heat tolerance, or replace with black pepper or paprika for milder spice.
-
Smoked Paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky depth to the dish.
-
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the sauce.
-
White Wine or Chicken Broth: White wine brings brightness and acidity, while broth makes a comforting alternative. A splash of lemon juice adds freshness if you skip the wine.
-
Lemon Juice: Balances the heat and adds zest to the sauce.
-
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the flavors.
-
Parsley: Fresh parsley gives the dish color and freshness.
-
Parmesan Cheese (optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan ties everything together with nutty richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for pasta perfection:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve a little pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Infuse the Oil with Garlic & Spice
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should release its aroma without turning brown.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
4. Build the Sauce
Deglaze the pan with white wine (or chicken broth) and fresh lemon juice. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
5. Toss with Pasta
Return the shrimp to the pan and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, letting the pasta soak up the garlicky, spicy sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too dry.
6. Garnish & Serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Cooking Perfect Shrimp
Shrimp cook incredibly fast, so it’s important not to overdo it. Here are a few pro tips:
-
Pat the shrimp dry before cooking to avoid steaming.
-
Cook over medium heat to maintain tenderness.
-
Shrimp are done when they curl into a loose “C” shape and turn pink. If they curl tightly into an “O,” they’re overcooked.
Recipe Variations
This spicy garlic shrimp pasta is versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment:
-
Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese for a velvety sauce.
-
Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
-
Extra Spicy: Use a fresh chili pepper instead of flakes, or add cayenne for more heat.
-
Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or chicken strips for a different twist.
What to Serve With Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
This pasta is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with simple sides can turn it into a complete feast:
-
A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
-
Warm garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.
-
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.
-
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the heat and garlic.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), here’s how to handle them:
-
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
-
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Avoid overheating, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is the kind of dish that proves you don’t need complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen to make something crave-worthy. With just a few fresh ingredients and 20 minutes, you’ll have a pasta dinner that’s equal parts bold, comforting, and satisfying.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.