Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp

Introduction

Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp is the kind of dish that captures your attention from the very first bite. The fiery heat of Calabrian chili peppers, combined with the rich, aromatic flavor of garlic, creates a sauce that’s bursting with boldness. Add in the succulent shrimp, perfectly seared to tender perfection, and you have a meal that’s as satisfying as it is full of flavor. The pasta soaks up the sauce beautifully, making every forkful a perfect balance of spice, garlic, and savory goodness.

The first time I made this dish, I couldn’t help but marvel at how easy it was to create such a showstopper. The Calabrian chilis brought just the right amount of heat, without overwhelming the other flavors, and the garlic added a delicious depth to the sauce. As the shrimp sizzled in the pan, the kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of garlic and chili, making me eager to dive in. Once everything came together in the pasta, it was clear this would quickly become a favorite in my recipe rotation.

What I love most about Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp is its versatility. It’s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, adding more or less chili depending on how much heat you like. Whether you serve it for a cozy night in or a dinner party with friends, this pasta will surely impress and leave everyone craving more.

Perfect for:

Turn your leftovers into tasty chef-like dishes with Duo Cover.

Get Duo Cover Today!

• Date nights
• Dinner parties
• Weeknight meals
• Spice lovers
• Seafood enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp Recipe

Here’s why Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp is a dish you’ll want to make again and again:

• Spicy and Flavorful: The Calabrian chili peppers bring a delightful heat that’s balanced perfectly by the richness of garlic, making each bite exciting and flavorful.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you want something special but don’t have much time to cook.
• Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: The shrimp are seared just right—tender and juicy with a slight crisp on the outside, adding texture to the dish.
• Garlicky Goodness: The garlic flavor is front and center, infusing the pasta with an aromatic richness that complements the heat of the chili.
• Customizable Heat Levels: You can adjust the amount of Calabrian chili to suit your personal spice tolerance, making this recipe as mild or as spicy as you like.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp:

• 12 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste (or more, depending on spice preference)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• ½ cup white wine (optional, or substitute with chicken broth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Calabrian Chili Paste: Known for its bold and smoky flavor, Calabrian chili paste is a key ingredient that adds heat and depth to the sauce. It’s often used in southern Italian cuisine and gives this pasta its signature kick.
• Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, making them the perfect addition to this fast recipe. Their natural sweetness balances the spiciness of the chili paste.
• Garlic: Garlic is the base of the sauce, infusing the pasta with a fragrant, savory flavor that enhances the entire dish.
• Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil helps to create a smooth, rich sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp:

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Cook the Shrimp:

2. Season the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Sear the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden.
5. Add the Chili Paste: Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the chili paste to infuse the oil.
6. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let the liquid simmer and reduce by half for 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Finish the Dish:

7. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta.
8. Add Shrimp and Lemon: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing well to combine.
9. Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili paste if desired.

Garnish and Serve:

10. Garnish: Sprinkle the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp

Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp is a bold and flavorful dish that can be served in various ways:

• With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple mixed green salad to balance the heat of the pasta and add freshness to the meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair it with garlic bread to scoop up the leftover sauce and enhance the garlic flavor.
• For a Family Meal: This pasta is perfect for a casual family dinner—just double the recipe to serve more people.
• For a Romantic Dinner: The spiciness and richness of the dish make it a great choice for a date night dinner. Serve in individual bowls for an elegant touch.
• With White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp and garlicky pasta.

Additional Tips for Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp

Here are some tips to make Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp perfect every time:

• Adjust the Spice: The Calabrian chili paste can be quite spicy, so feel free to adjust the amount to suit your heat preference. Add more for a fiery kick or less for a mild, flavorful dish.
• Cook Shrimp Quickly: Shrimp cook very fast, so be careful not to overcook them. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat.
• Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It helps to thin out the sauce and make it coat the pasta better.
• Lemon Zest: The zest adds a fragrant citrus aroma that enhances the overall flavor. Don’t skip this step—it’s essential for balancing the richness of the shrimp and pasta.

Recipe Variations for Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp

Here are 10 variations you can try for Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp:

• Spicy Tomato Version: Add crushed tomatoes to the sauce for a spicy tomato-based version of this dish.
• With Scallops: Swap the shrimp for scallops for a luxurious, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the chili.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian take on the dish.
• With Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the pasta for extra greens and a boost of nutrients.
• Lemon Garlic Version: Increase the lemon zest and juice for a more pronounced citrus flavor in the sauce.
• Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce to make it creamy and rich, balancing the spice.
• With Anchovies: Add anchovies to the sauce for an extra layer of umami flavor.
• With Zucchini: Toss in sautéed zucchini for extra texture and a light, fresh addition to the pasta.
• With Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a savory, smoky contrast to the shrimp and chili.
• With Peas: Stir in frozen peas for a pop of sweetness and color.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze the pasta and shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to bring back some moisture.
• Storage: Store leftover Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little olive oil or pasta water.

Special Equipment for Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp easier:

• Large Skillet: A large skillet is essential for sautéing the shrimp and making the sauce.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: A large pot with plenty of water is necessary for cooking the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Tongs: Use tongs to easily toss the pasta in the sauce without breaking it.
• Grater: A microplane grater works well for zesting the lemon and for grating Parmesan cheese.

FAQ Section for Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer—penne, linguine, or fettuccine all work great in this dish.
2. Can I substitute the shrimp with chicken?
   Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with grilled chicken breast or thighs for a hearty alternative.
3. Is there a substitute for Calabrian chili paste?
   If you can’t find Calabrian chili paste, you can use a combination of red pepper flakes and a bit of tomato paste for a similar heat and flavor.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While the pasta is best served fresh, you can make the sauce and shrimp ahead of time and toss them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
5. How do I make this dish milder?
   If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of Calabrian chili paste or omit the red pepper flakes.

Print

Conclusion

Garlicky Calabrian Chili Pasta with Shrimp is a dish that delivers bold, fiery flavors with just the right amount of heat. The combination of garlic, chili, and shrimp creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this pasta is quick, easy, and full of flavor. The best part? You can customize the heat to your liking, making it perfect for everyone at the table.

Give this recipe a try and experience the delicious heat and richness that come together in every bite! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram to show off your creation. I’d love to see how you spice things up! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!