If you’re searching for a dish that boldly combines heat, zest, and a touch of indulgence, the Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe will quickly become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. This pasta is a vibrant celebration of flavors, marrying the smoky, spicy Calabrian chili paste with the rich garlicky butter sauce that clings lovingly to tender shrimp and perfectly cooked linguine. It’s a perfect blend of comfort, kick, and freshness that makes weeknight cooking feel like a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. The creamy butter and garlic provide a luscious base, while Calabrian chili paste adds a fiery depth. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, and succulent shrimp bring in a satisfying protein element that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.
- 6 tablespoons salted butter: Softened butter creates a rich, silky sauce that beautifully coats the pasta and shrimp.
- 4-5 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic gives a pungent, aromatic punch that’s essential for that garlicky flavor.
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste: Adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of umami that rounds out the sauce.
- 1-3 tablespoons Calabrian pepper paste: This spicy, smoky chili paste delivers the iconic kick and depth central to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons parsley: Fresh parsley offers a pop of color and a bright herbaceous note.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Lemon zest infuses the sauce with fragrant citrus oils for freshness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances the richness with acid, lifting all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon EACH: black pepper and hot paprika: Enhances the spice and layers of flavor without overpowering.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Tender shrimp soak up the sauce and add proteins with a slight sweetness.
- 10 ounces linguine or fettuccine: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto every last bit of the sauce.
- Shaved parmesan, for serving: A final sprinkle of nutty, salty cheese to finish the dish with elegance.
How to Make Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your linguine or fettuccine until al dente according to package instructions—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a half cup of pasta water to help bring your sauce together later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Build the Sauce
In a large pan over medium heat, melt the softened butter. Add finely minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and lightly golden—this is the moment when the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma. Stir in the tomato paste and Calabrian chili paste, combining them well into the butter to develop a glossy, spicy sauce base.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Toss the shrimp into the flavorful sauce and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking preserves their tender texture while allowing them to soak up the garlicky, spicy flavors.
Step 4: Bring Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta back into the pan with the shrimp and sauce. Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing to loosen the sauce and get it to cling beautifully to every strand of pasta. Finish by stirring in lemon zest, lemon juice, freshly chopped parsley, black pepper, and hot paprika to create a balanced and aromatic dish.
How to Serve Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the pasta generously with shaved parmesan for a creamy, salty contrast to the spicy sauce. A few extra curls of fresh parsley or a light drizzle of good quality olive oil can elevate the look and flavor even further.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add crunch and freshness alongside the rich main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls topped with a whole grilled shrimp or a lemon wedge on the side. You might even consider adding toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled over for texture or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra punch of heat and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors might even meld more overnight, making for an easy next-day meal that’s just as tasty.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t ideal due to the shrimp and delicate sauce, which can lose texture upon thawing. However, if you choose to freeze, store the pasta and shrimp separately from the sauce for best results, and consume within one month.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from toughening. Add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce and toss until heated through for a delicious second helping.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine or fettuccine works beautifully to catch the sauce, spaghetti or even rigatoni can be great substitutes depending on your preference.
How spicy is the Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Calabrian chili paste you add. Start with a smaller amount if you prefer milder heat, and add more if you love a fiery dish.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the linguine or fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and this recipe remains just as delicious and satisfying.
Is Calabrian chili paste easy to find?
It has become widely available at well-stocked grocery stores, specialty Italian markets, or online. It’s definitely worth seeking out for this recipe as it imparts a unique smoky, spicy flavor.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this pasta?
Frozen shrimp works perfectly—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely in the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe is that rare kind of meal that feels special yet comes together quickly with ingredients you might already have on hand. It brings a perfect balance of bold flavors, comforting butteriness, and fresh brightness that will leave you and anyone you serve craving every last bite. Give it a try soon, and watch this become a new go-to whenever you want dinner to impress without the fuss.
Print
Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp is a vibrant, spicy Italian-inspired dish perfect for seafood lovers. Combining the heat of Calabrian chili paste with the richness of butter and fresh garlic, it delivers a bold flavor profile balanced by zesty lemon and parsley. Ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta is ideal for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Sauce and Flavorings
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- 1–3 tablespoons Calabrian pepper paste (adjust according to heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon hot paprika
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 10 ounces linguine or fettuccine pasta
- Shaved Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water for later use.
- Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the softened butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and Calabrian pepper paste, cooking for another minute to develop flavors.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with black pepper and hot paprika. Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on size.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary. Serve immediately topped with shaved Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Calabrian pepper paste based on your preferred spice level; start with 1 tablespoon if unsure.
- Reserve pasta water to help thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Shaved Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty finish, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or omit for a dairy-free option.
