This creamy spicy shrimp pasta is the viral dinner recipe everyone is obsessed with and once you try it, you’ll see why. Juicy shrimp tossed in a rich, creamy sauce with just the right kick of heat turns this into the ultimate shrimp pasta recipe for busy nights. It’s perfect if you’re craving creamy shrimp pasta that feels indulgent but still comes together fast. Whether you need an easy shrimp dinner, a comforting pasta night favorite, or a quick shrimp meal packed with flavor, this dish delivers every time. If you love bold sauces and reliable shrimp recipes pasta, this one belongs in your weekly rotation.
table of contents
Time Breakdown
- 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, linguine, 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 cheese
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 or sauté pan
- Pasta pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Cook the pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain. - Season the shrimp
Toss shrimp with olive oil, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. - Cook the shrimp
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque 🍤 - Make the creamy sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in cream, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and lemon juice until smooth and glossy. - Combine & serve
Add pasta and shrimp to the sauce. Toss gently, adding pasta water as needed. Serve hot.
Pro Tips
- Reduce chili flakes for a milder spicy shrimp pasta
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber
- Leftovers reheat best with a splash of cream
- Great for both dinner and next-day lunch
Nutrition Table (Estimated)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 520 | 36g | 44g | 23g | 3g | 4g |
Disclaimer
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes. Please consult a nutrition professional for specific dietary needs.

Creamy Spicy Shrimp Pasta Everyone Is Making Right Now
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta until al dente.
- Season and cook shrimp.
- Prepare creamy sauce.
- Toss pasta and shrimp with sauce.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
This creamy spicy shrimp pasta proves that viral recipes can actually be worth the hype. It’s quick, comforting, and bold enough to feel restaurant-quality without the extra effort.
FAQs
Can I make this less spicy?
Yes, reduce or skip the chili flakes.
Is this an easy shrimp dinner?
Absolutely it’s beginner-friendly and ready in under 30 minutes.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.