Creamy Spicy Shrimp Pasta Everyone Is Making Right Now

This creamy spicy shrimp pasta is the viral dinner recipe everyone can’t stop talking about. Juicy shrimp tossed in a rich, creamy sauce with just the right kick of spice make this the ultimate shrimp pasta recipe for busy nights. It’s perfect if you’re craving creamy shrimp pasta that feels indulgent but comes together quickly. Whether you’re searching for easy shrimp pasta, a satisfying shrimp pasta dinner, or a quick shrimp dinner that still feels special, this dish delivers. Packed with protein, it also works as a high protein shrimp pasta you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation of go-to shrimp recipes pasta.

table of contents
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 3–4

Ingredients List

Shrimp

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Pasta & Sauce

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or basil
  • Extra Parmesan

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta
    Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
  2. Season the shrimp
    Toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook the shrimp
    Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque 🍤
  4. Make the sauce
    In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Stir in cream, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and lemon juice until smooth and glossy.
  5. Combine & serve
    Add pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss gently, adding pasta water if needed. Serve hot.

Pro Tips

  • Adjust spice level with more or less chili flakes
  • Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber
  • Add spinach for a veggie boost
  • Leftovers reheat best with a splash of cream
  • Great for meal prep up to 2 days

Nutrition Table (Estimated)

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
1 plate52038g45g22g3g4g

Disclaimer

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes. Always consult a nutrition professional for specific dietary needs.

zinaba word

Creamy Spicy Shrimp Pasta Everyone Is Making Right Now

This creamy spicy shrimp pasta is bold, comforting, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Pasta
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
  • butter
  • garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • chili flakes
  • salt, pepper, paprika or preferred spices

Equipment

  • large pot for boiling pasta
  • skillet or sauté pan for shrimp and sauce
  • colander for draining pasta
  • wooden spoon or tongs

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta until al dente.
  2. Season and cook shrimp.
  3. Prepare creamy sauce.
  4. Toss pasta and shrimp with sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 36gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 240mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 210mgIron: 2.6mg

Notes

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Conclusion

This creamy spicy shrimp pasta proves that viral recipes can actually live up to the hype. It’s quick, flavorful, and comforting the kind of dinner you’ll crave again and again.

FAQs

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes, reduce or skip the chili flakes.

Is this recipe high in protein?

Absolutely shrimp adds plenty of lean protein.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.