Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce! In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that combines succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that packs a spicy punch. Whether you're looking to impress your dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is your ticket to an unforgettable dining adventure.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and half of the red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes and remaining red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and gently mix with pasta and sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Optional: sprinkle with additional red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Tips
- Shrimp Cooking Perfection: Pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure a beautiful golden sear. Overcooked shrimp can become tough, so watch them carefully - they're done when they turn pink and curl slightly.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, clingy sauce that coats every inch of your pasta.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance. Start with less and add more to taste - you can always increase the heat, but you can't take it away!
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh parsley for garnishing to add a bright, fresh flavor and a pop of color to your dish.
- Cream Sauce Tip: Add the cream slowly and simmer gently to prevent separation. If the sauce looks too thick, the reserved pasta water will help you achieve the perfect consistency.
- One-Pan Convenience: This recipe minimizes cleanup by using the same skillet for multiple steps, allowing the flavors to build and develop throughout the cooking process.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 220mg
