If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavor yet comes together in just about 30 minutes, the Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe is going to become your new go-to weeknight winner. This pasta delivers a fantastic balance of spicy Calabrian pepper heat, zesty lemon brightness, and luscious garlicky butter sauce, all tossed with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked linguine. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light—just perfect when you want to impress without fussing over complicated cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build depth and character. From the rich butter that forms the creamy foundation, to the punchy Calabrian pepper paste that adds exciting heat, every component plays a crucial role in creating this unforgettable dish.
- Salted butter: 6 tablespoons, softened for an easy melt and rich flavor base.
- Garlic cloves: 4-5, finely minced to infuse the sauce with fragrant, savory warmth.
- Tomato paste: 2 teaspoons, providing a subtle tangy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Calabrian pepper paste: 1-3 tablespoons, the star spice delivering smoky, slightly spicy notes.
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped to offer a burst of herbal freshness and color.
- Lemon zest: From 1 lemon, adding a bright, citrusy aroma.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon, for that fresh, tangy kick that lifts the whole dish.
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground to enhance flavor complexity.
- Hot paprika: ¼ teaspoon, to complement the Calabrian chili with mild smoky heat.
- Shrimp: 1 lb, peeled and deveined, providing a tender, juicy protein element.
- Linguine or fettuccine: 10 ounces, the perfect pasta for swirling up all the luscious sauce.
- Shaved parmesan: For serving, lending a salty, creamy finish.
How to Make Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before heating things up, make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined, and garlic cloves are finely minced. Measure out your butter, Calabrian chili paste, and seasonings to keep the cooking flow smooth and easy. Having fresh parsley chopped and lemon zest ready will also speed up the process once the pasta is boiling.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your linguine or fettuccine to al dente according to package instructions. The pasta needs to hold its shape to carry the sauce perfectly without becoming mushy. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—around 2-3 minutes per side—to avoid any rubbery texture.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and Calabrian pepper paste into the buttery garlic mixture, letting it meld for another minute. The spicy, smoky paste deepens the flavor and gives the sauce its signature fiery kick. Then add lemon zest and juice to brighten the richness, balancing heat with citrusy freshness.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, coating each strand with the luscious sauce. If the mixture feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach your desired silky texture. Stir in chopped parsley for an added layer of fresh herbal notes.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Divide the pasta and shrimp among plates or bowls. Top generously with shaved parmesan for a salty, creamy contrast to the spicy pasta that will turn every forkful into a celebration.
How to Serve Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe, sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top for a vibrant green pop, and don’t shy away from an extra shave of parmesan. A few lemon wedges on the side add a fun, interactive tartness for guests who want more zing.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon complements the spicy, buttery notes perfectly. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve your Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe in shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to impress guests visually. Alternatively, toss in some toasted pine nuts or chili flakes for extra texture and punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftovers of this Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp and pasta together with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking and help maintain moisture.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not ideal because shrimp and pasta can get rubbery when thawed. However, if you do need to freeze it, separate the shrimp and sauce from the pasta, freeze them individually, and combine once reheated for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent the shrimp from overcooking. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the delicate shrimp and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine or fettuccine work wonderfully, you can use spaghetti, bucatini, or even penne if preferred. Just choose a pasta that holds sauce well.
How spicy is the Calabrian pepper paste?
Calabrian pepper paste has a moderate heat level with a smoky, fruity flavor. You can adjust the amount from 1 tablespoon to 3 tablespoons depending on your spice tolerance.
Can I make this recipe without seafood?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, chicken, or even tofu to make a vegetarian or different protein version.
Is it important to use salted butter?
Using salted butter adds seasoning and depth to the sauce, but if you only have unsalted butter, just be sure to adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.
What can I use if I can’t find Calabrian pepper paste?
If Calabrian pepper paste isn’t available, a mix of crushed red pepper flakes and smoked paprika can offer a similar, though not identical, flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the comforting, vibrant flavors of the Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe when you want a dish that feels special without hours in the kitchen. Give it a try for your next cozy dinner and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Trust me, once you experience the harmony of spicy, garlicky, lemony goodness with juicy shrimp twirling on tender pasta, you’ll be hooked!
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
A vibrant and flavorful Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp that combines the spicy kick of Calabrian pepper paste with the rich taste of butter, garlic, and lemon. Perfect for a quick and delicious 30-minute meal that balances heat and zest with succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked linguine.
Ingredients
Pasta and Shrimp
- 10 ounces linguine or fettuccine
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- 1–3 tablespoons Calabrian pepper paste (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon hot paprika
For Serving
- Shaved parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and build sauce base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add tomato and Calabrian chili paste: Stir in the tomato paste and Calabrian pepper paste, adjusting the amount of chili paste to your preferred spice level. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook the shrimp: Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with black pepper and hot paprika. Cook 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 combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.
- Finish with herbs and lemon: Stir in chopped parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything well to distribute flavors evenly.
- Serve: Plate the pasta topped with shaved parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust Calabrian pepper paste quantity according to desired spiciness. Start with 1 tablespoon for mild heat.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice to brighten the dish and complement the spicy and rich flavors.
- Reserved pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, making it silky and coating the pasta better.
- Ensure shrimp are fresh and properly deveined for the best taste and texture.
- Shaved parmesan adds a salty and nutty finish that balances the heat from the chilies.
