Indulge in the irresistible comfort of Spicy Shrimp Pasta with Cream Sauce, a dish that masterfully balances indulgent creaminess with a kick of spice. Succulent shrimp, perfectly seared for a tender bite, are paired with al dente penne or fettuccine and enveloped in a dreamy garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. The addition of crushed red pepper flakes lends just the right amount of heat, while fresh cherry tomatoes and parsley brighten the dish with bursts of flavor and color. Ready in just 40 minutes, this restaurant-quality meal is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve this creamy, spicy pasta creation with crusty bread and a crisp side salad for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Calories |
3010 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 205.0 g | 263% | |
| Saturated Fat | 108.1 g | 540% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1388 mg | 463% | |
| Sodium | 3541 mg | 154% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 117.7 g | 43% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.9 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.0 g | ||
| Protein | 163.3 g | 327% | |
| Vitamin D | 20.3 mcg | 101% | |
| Calcium | 1137 mg | 87% | |
| Iron | 6.1 mg | 34% | |
| Potassium | 1807 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.