Cooking shrimp has always been one of my favorite kitchen rituals. Watching the shrimp turn from gray to bright pink, while garlic and olive oil sizzle, is a small moment of satisfaction. This Spicy Garlic Shrimp Pasta is simple but flavorful, giving the impression of a restaurant-quality meal even on a busy weeknight.
I first tried this combination by accident. I had leftover pasta, some shrimp, and chili flakes. Tossing everything together with garlic and butter created a dish that was unexpectedly delicious. The flavors blended perfectly — spicy, garlicky, and buttery. Since then, it has become a staple in my weekly rotation.
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti or linguine
- 300g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds brightness.
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Sauté the shrimp.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Sprinkle chili flakes over the shrimp as they cook.
3. Create the sauce.
Lower the heat and add the remaining butter. Toss in the cooked pasta along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Stir until the pasta is coated in the garlicky, buttery sauce.
4. Finish and serve.
Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley. If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the heat by using more or fewer chili flakes.
- Add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- For a creamier texture, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream after cooking the shrimp.
- Swap shrimp for chicken strips if you prefer a different protein.
Serving Ideas
Pair this pasta with:
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce
- A chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the spice