This Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a perfect balance of heat, richness, and zest. The succulent shrimp are coated in a creamy garlic butter sauce that’s infused with red chili flakes and smoked paprika, creating a delightful warmth. The cayenne pepper gives it an extra punch, while the squeeze of lemon adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the butter. The linguine or spaghetti absorbs all the spicy, garlicky goodness, making each bite a savory, comforting experience with just the right level of heat. Finished off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro, and optional Parmesan, this dish is as satisfying as it is bold, perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals.
Ingredients
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200g (7 oz) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your fave)
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250g (1/2 lb) shrimp, peeled & deveined
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3 tbsp butter (or 2 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp olive oil)
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1–2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for serious kick)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Juice of 1/2 lemon
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Fresh parsley or cilantro
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Grated Parmesan (optional)
Execution
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Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and save about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
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In a large pan, melt butter (and oil if using) over medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute.
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Add shrimp. Sprinkle paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and lightly seared (about 2–3 mins per side).
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Toss in the pasta, a splash of pasta water, and squeeze in lemon juice. Stir well to coat everything.
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Garnish with chopped herbs and Parmesan (if you’re into that kind of deliciousness).
Additional Tips
✔ Stir in a spoon of harissa, sriracha, or Calabrian chili paste if you’re brave.
✔ Want smoke? A few dashes of chipotle hot sauce adds fire and flavor.
✔ Finish with a pinch of chili powder or crushed dried chilis on top for presentation and punch.
Q&A About This Recipe
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.
Q: Is it really spicy?
A: It has a moderate to high heat level depending on how much chili flakes, paprika, and cayenne you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with ½ tsp of chili flakes and skip the cayenne.
Q: Can I make it creamy?
A: Yes! Add 2–3 tbsp of heavy cream or a spoon of cream cheese at the end for a creamy twist that balances out the spice.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are great because they hold the sauce well, but you can also use penne or angel hair if that’s what you have.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Reheat slowly in a pan, adding a bit of water or butter. Microwave works too, but it may dry out the shrimp slightly.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers pair well and add color and nutrition.
Q: Can I make it without shrimp?
A: Totally. Swap shrimp with chicken, tofu, or keep it simple as a spicy garlic butter pasta.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
1. Quick & Easy:
This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Packed with Flavor:
The combo of garlic, butter, lemon, and spices creates a rich, savory, and zesty sauce that coats every strand of pasta and juicy shrimp.
3. Restaurant-Quality at Home:
With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you get a dish that tastes like something off a fancy Italian menu—without the high price tag.
4. Customizable Heat:
Love spice? Add a kick with cayenne or hot sauce. Prefer mild? Dial back the chili flakes. It’s totally adjustable to your heat tolerance.
5. One-Pan Wonder:
Aside from boiling the pasta, everything happens in one pan—less mess, less cleanup.
6. Impress Without Stress:
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or someone else, this recipe looks and tastes impressive without being complicated.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~520 kcal
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Protein: ~30g
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Carbohydrates: ~45g
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Sugars: ~2g
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Fiber: ~2g
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Fat: ~25g
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Saturated Fat: ~12g
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Cholesterol: ~220mg
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Sodium: ~600mg
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Potassium: ~300mg
🔍 Notes:
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Values can vary based on the type of pasta, amount of butter, and any extras (like Parmesan).
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Using whole wheat pasta adds more fiber.
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Use less butter or switch to light butter for a lower-fat option.
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Add veggies like spinach or zucchini for more fiber and micronutrients.
Happy Cooking
Diana
