This recipe can satisfy a number of meal occasions.
It’s quick and easy so you can prepare it for a weeknight dinner.
Yet it’s also perfect for casual entertaining as it is packed with flavor and a touch of heat from the Italian herbs and crushed red pepper.
Use jumbo shrimp if you want to make it impressive!
Ingredients:
4 oz. large shrimp
Pappardelle pasta
1 tbsp. chicken bouillon
1 tbsp. oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsps. unsalted butter
1 small onion chopped
1/2 tbsp. minced garlic
2-3 tbsps. tomato paste
1 tsp dry pepper flakes
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 handful fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup parmesan cheese
salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot, bring 2-3 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of chicken broth and a pinch of salt.
- Once boiling, add the pasta and stir. Cook according to package instructions (about 7-10 minutes).
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with oil, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and Cajun seasoning until well coated.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1 minute per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 3 minutes to eliminate the raw taste. If needed, add a tablespoon of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Add the red pepper flakes and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water (or chicken broth) and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- If using, add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat well.
- Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing them into the pasta and sauce.
- If desired, save some shrimp for garnishing when serving.
- Plate the pasta, garnishing with the reserved shrimp and additional Parmesan if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Spicy Creamy Shrimp Pasta!
