If you’re craving something vibrant, bold, and downright irresistible, the Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe is your new go-to dish. This pasta packs a punch with the spicy richness of Calabrian pepper paste perfectly balanced by buttery garlic and fresh lemon notes. Tender shrimp swim in a luscious, slightly spicy sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of linguine, making each bite an exciting flavor adventure. Whether you’re impressing friends or indulging on a cozy night in, this recipe brings warmth, zest, and a touch of Italian flair right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this dish is all in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Every component adds something special—glorious butter for richness, punchy garlic, fiery Calabrian chili for heat, and fresh lemon to brighten. These ingredients combine to create a sauce that’s richly layered but easy to whip up on any busy night.
- Salted butter, 6 tablespoons: Provides a silky, creamy base that carries all the flavors beautifully.
- Garlic, 4-5 cloves: Adds a fragrant pungency that’s essential to this dish’s garlicky soul.
- Tomato paste, 2 teaspoons: Delivers depth and a subtle sweetness that amplifies the chili’s heat.
- Calabrian pepper paste, 1-3 tablespoons: The star ingredient, it brings smoky, spicy complexity; adjust based on your heat preference.
- Parsley, 2 tablespoons: Freshness and a pop of green color to lighten the rich sauce.
- Lemon zest, from 1 lemon: Offers bright citrus notes that cut through the richness wonderfully.
- Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Adds a tangy finish to balance the spice and butter.
- Black pepper, ¼ teaspoon: A subtle layer of spice that complements the chili.
- Hot paprika, ¼ teaspoon: Enhances the smoky heat and adds warmth.
- Shrimp, 1 lb peeled and deveined: Tender, juicy protein that absorbs the sauce’s bold flavors.
- Linguine or fettuccine, 10 ounces: Perfect pasta shapes that catch the sauce beautifully.
- Shaved parmesan, for serving: A nutty, salty crowning touch to finish the dish with elegance.
How to Make Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your linguine or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserving a cup of pasta water before draining is a crucial step since the starchy water will help you marry the sauce to the noodles perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Butter
In a large skillet, melt the softened butter over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes. This step infuses the butter with garlicky goodness that forms the heart of your sauce, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and Calabrian pepper paste, mixing well to combine. Let it cook for another minute to deepen the flavors. Then sprinkle in black pepper and hot paprika. The combination of these spices with the chili paste creates a rich, smoky heat that’s complex but not overpowering.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp directly to the sauce, stirring so they’re evenly coated. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and curl up. The shrimp should remain tender and juicy, soaking up that vibrant, spicy butter sauce.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Finish
Add the drained pasta into the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together over low heat until the sauce thickens slightly and clings beautifully to the noodles. Stir in chopped parsley for a fresh burst of herbal brightness. Adjust seasoning with salt and extra chili paste if you love more heat.
How to Serve Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
The ultimate way to elevate this dish is with a generous sprinkle of shaved parmesan. The cheese melts lightly atop the warm pasta, adding a creamy, nutty contrast to the spicy sauce. For extra flair, finish with a handful of fresh parsley or even a drizzle of good olive oil to keep things glossy and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines as a star entrée but pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A crunchy Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is ideal for soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe family-style in a large, shallow bowl so everyone can dig in. You might even top individual servings with a soft poached egg for an extra layer of indulgence. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers to impress guests with color and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2 days to keep the shrimp tender and flavors vibrant. Avoid letting it sit at room temperature for too long as seafood is best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
Due to the delicate texture of shrimp and the creamy butter sauce, freezing this pasta isn’t recommended. The shrimp can become rubbery after thawing, and the sauce might separate. Instead, enjoy this dish fresh or store leftovers refrigerated for short-term enjoyment.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can toughen the shrimp and unevenly warm the pasta. Slow, gentle reheating preserves that silky sauce and juicy shrimp texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine or fettuccine work wonderfully because they hold the sauce well, feel free to use spaghetti, bucatini, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. The key is pasta that can catch the sauce effectively.
What if I don’t have Calabrian pepper paste?
If you can’t find Calabrian pepper paste, a good-quality chili paste with a smoky, slightly sweet flavor can work. You might also try mixing chili flakes with a touch of tomato paste and smoked paprika to mimic the taste, though the distinct Calabrian flavor is hard to replicate exactly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Skip the shrimp and amp up the veggies, perhaps with roasted mushrooms or sautéed zucchini. You might also add toasted pine nuts or crispy chickpeas for some protein and crunch while still enjoying all the spicy, garlicky flavors.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends largely on how much Calabrian pepper paste you use. Starting with 1 tablespoon provides a mild warmth, but if you love spice, going up to 3 tablespoons will bring a satisfying kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Can this dish be prepared in under 30 minutes?
Yes! With just 10 minutes prep time and 20 minutes cooking, the Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner. The process is straightforward, and the results taste like you spent much longer in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe is a true flavor bomb that never fails to delight. It’s bold without being complicated, making it a fantastic choice to spice up any weeknight or special gathering. I highly encourage you to try this dish soon—you’ll love how the spicy, garlicky sauce melds with tender shrimp and pasta for a meal that feels both cozy and adventurous. Trust me, it’s destined to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
