Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Spicy Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and indulgent dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce. This recipe features tender linguine coated in a rich blend of Cajun or Creole seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all brought together with a touch of heavy cream.

It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal that packs a punch. The addition of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, making this dish both delicious and visually appealing.

Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients:

1 lb uncooked linguine

1 lb unpeeled large raw shrimp

4 tablespoons butter or 4 tablespoons margarine

1 medium sweet onion, chopped

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon cajun seasoning or 1 tablespoon creole seasoning

1 cup heavy cream

1⁄2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dry crushed red pepper

1⁄3 cup chopped fresh parsley or 2 tablespoons dried parsley

Instructions:

Cook the Linguine: Prepare the linguine according to the package instructions. Keep it warm once cooked.

Prepare the Shrimp: Remove the shells and devein the shrimp. Set them aside for later.

Melt the Butter: Heat the butter or margarine in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes tender.

Add Seasoning: Stir in the Cajun or Creole seasoning and cook, stirring continuously, for 1 minute.

Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they are just beginning to turn pink.

Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked linguine, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper to the skillet. Stir gently until everything is well combined and heated through.

Finish with Parsley: Stir in the chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Spicy Shrimp Pasta!

Notes:

Shrimp Preparation: If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end of cooking to avoid overcooking. Cooked shrimp only need to be heated through.

Adjusting Spice Level: For a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun or Creole seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Conversely, for extra heat, increase the amounts to suit your taste.

Cream Substitution: You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream to reduce richness, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

Cheese Variation: Feel free to use other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano in place of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Cooking the Shrimp: Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.

Pasta Cooking: Ensure the linguine is cooked al dente (firm to the bite) to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.

Butter vs. Margarine: Both butter and margarine work well in this recipe, but butter will add a richer flavor.

Creaminess: If the sauce thickens too much after adding the cheese, you can loosen it with a little bit of pasta water or additional cream.

Garnish Options: Adding extra fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can enhance the dish’s freshness and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with other types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.

Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

What if I don’t like shrimp?

You can substitute shrimp with other proteins such as chicken, scallops, or even tofu.

Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best to cook and serve this dish fresh.

However, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta in advance.

Reheat gently and add fresh shrimp before serving.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of Cajun or Creole seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes.

You can also add a dash of hot sauce or fresh sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Yes, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter.

You can also use a light cheese alternative.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but be careful not to overcook them.

Add pre-cooked shrimp towards the end of cooking just to heat them through.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

You can use other hard cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a cheese blend.

Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Make sure to cook the cream on medium-low heat and avoid boiling it.

Stir frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy upon reheating.

It’s best enjoyed fresh.

However, you can freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when ready to eat.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or pasta water if the sauce is too thick.