Spicy Pasta with Grilled Shrimp Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings a little kick to your dinner table, this Spicy Pasta with Grilled Shrimp Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines perfectly al dente pasta swimming in a creamy, tomato-based sauce infused with fresh herbs and a fiery blend of spices, all topped with smoky, tender grilled shrimp. Each bite bursts with layers of taste and texture, making it a dish worth sharing with family and friends on any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients, each contributing a unique element to the final creation—whether it’s the fresh herbs lending aroma, the spices adding heat, or the cream bringing lusciousness to the sauce.

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite shape like penne or linguine for the perfect base to soak up the sauce.
• 3/4 pound medium shrimp (thawed & peeled): Fresh or frozen works fine; just make sure they’re peeled for easy grilling and eating.
• 1 shallot (chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing and creating a smooth, rich texture.
• 1 (28 fluid ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): The hearty, tangy tomato base that blends beautifully with herbs and spices.
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped): Brings a bright, earthy note that balances the heat.
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped): Infuses the sauce with its signature fragrant sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A convenient blend that enhances the Italian vibe of the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is a non-negotiable flavor booster in this recipe.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds the spicy punch that defines this pasta’s character.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Rounds out the heat with a slightly smoky complexity.
• 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): To balance and enhance all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for the shrimp marinade to keep them juicy and flavorful.
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced): For the shrimp basting oil, heightening the savory aroma during grilling.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky warmth that complements the grill marks on the shrimp.

How to Make Spicy Pasta with Grilled Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Skewers

Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning and splintering during grilling. A quick trick is to wet a paper towel, wrap the skewers, and place them in the fridge while you prep the rest. This ensures your shrimp cook evenly and stay on the skewer like a pro.

Step 2: Make the Shrimp Basting Oil

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir this aromatic mixture well; it will be what gives the shrimp their signature smoky, garlicky glaze on the grill that is utterly irresistible.

Step 3: Thread the Shrimp on Skewers

Using the soaked skewers, thread the shrimp by piercing the top and bottom to create a natural C-shape. This keeps the shrimp secure for grilling and allows for easy flipping without losing any juicy goodness.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation for soaking in all the delicious sauce you’re about to make.

Step 5: Chop Fresh Herbs and Shallot

While the pasta cooks, finely chop the shallot, oregano, and basil. Fresh herbs truly elevate the flavor profile of this Spicy Pasta with Grilled Shrimp Recipe by bringing brightness and freshness to the rich sauce.

Step 6: Sauté the Shallot

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped shallot and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent, releasing a gentle sweetness that forms the sauce’s flavorful base.

Step 7: Build the Tomato Sauce

Add diced tomatoes (with their juices), oregano, basil, Italian seasoning, garlic, red pepper flakes, and chili powder to the skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for about five minutes, stirring often. This step melds all those wonderful spices and herbs into the tomatoes creating a vibrant, spicy sauce.

Step 8: Add Cream and Season

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to help it thicken beautifully until it coats the back of a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this creamy heat is the heart of the dish.

Step 9: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Drain the pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the warm sauce. Toss everything together gently so each strand is coated in that rich, spicy, and creamy tomato goodness. Keep the skillet on low heat and cover to keep warm while you grill the shrimp.

Step 10: Grill the Shrimp

Place the shrimp skewers on a hot grill and immediately baste the tops with your prepared basting oil. Grill for about 90 seconds on each side, basting again after flipping, until the shrimp turn opaque and have those mouthwatering grill marks. The garlic and smoked paprika glaze caramelizes to perfection here.

Step 11: Serve the Shrimp

Carefully remove shrimp from the skewers with a fork. You can either fold them into the pasta or arrange them artistically on top for a gorgeous presentation. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect contrast of spicy, creamy pasta and smoky, juicy grilled shrimp.

How to Serve Spicy Pasta with Grilled Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty creaminess that complements the spicy sauce. Chopped parsley or basil brings a pop of color and freshness. For those who love an extra kick, a dash more red pepper flakes on top is a fabulous idea.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to mop up all the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers are also welcome companions that add texture and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in shallow bowls garnished with grilled shrimp skewers laid across the top. Another idea is to split the shrimp off the skewers and arrange them in neat circles around a mound of pasta for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Spicy Pasta with Grilled Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the shrimp and pasta separate if you want to maintain the best texture, then combine and reheat before serving.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the creamy sauce and delicate shrimp texture. However, you can freeze the pasta (without shrimp) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of cream or water while reheating helps loosen the sauce and keeps it silky smooth.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or linguine works wonderfully, feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a gluten-free variety depending on your preference or dietary needs.

How spicy is this dish really?

The heat level is moderate and can be adjusted easily by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes and chili powder. It delivers a pleasant warmth without overpowering the other flavors.

What if I don’t have a grill to cook the shrimp?

No grill? No problem! You can sauté the shrimp in a hot skillet with a little oil and the same basting mixture for similar flavor, cooking just a few minutes until they’re pink and cooked through.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut milk can substitute cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. Adjust seasoning accordingly and watch the thickness.

Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great as long as it’s fully thawed and patted dry before threading and grilling. This prevents excess moisture which can hinder browning and flavor development.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Pasta with Grilled Shrimp Recipe is a fantastic way to bring bold flavors, comforting creaminess, and fresh ingredients to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you make it, it’s going to be a go-to favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. So grab your skewers and get ready for a delicious adventure!

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