Chili Garlic Pasta with Shrimp

Name: Chili Garlic Pasta with Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g spaghetti or linguine; 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 red chili peppers, chopped; 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

I love making Chili Garlic Pasta with Shrimp because it’s a quick and flavorful dish that never fails to impress. The combination of fresh garlic, spicy chili, and succulent shrimp creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Whenever I have friends over or need a delightful dinner option, this dish is my go-to. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights. Plus, the vibrant colors and delicious aroma will have everyone craving more before it even hits the table!

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:02:28.230Z

When I first discovered this recipe, I was captivated by how simple yet mouthwatering it is. The key to the dish is the careful balance of garlic and chili, which I learned to sauté just until fragrant before adding the shrimp. I like to keep the shrimp slightly undercooked while tossing it with the pasta to ensure it remains tender.

This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it's not only delicious but very adaptable. You can throw in your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level based on your preferences. It always comes out beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for any day of the week
Elevated with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness

Cooking Perfect Pasta

The key to achieving perfectly cooked pasta lies in the timing and the saltiness of the water. When bringing a large pot of water to a boil, don't skimp on the salt; it should taste like the ocean. This enhances the flavor of the spaghetti or linguine. Once you add the pasta, stir it occasionally to prevent sticking, and taste it a minute or two before the package instructions say it's done. You want it al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite but shouldn't be hard in the center.

When you drain the cooked pasta, make sure to reserve some pasta water. This starchy liquid is a great tool for adjusting the sauce's consistency later. If the dish seems too dry after combining with the shrimp, adding a splash of this water can transform the texture into a silky, cohesive sauce that clings beautifully to each strand.

Shrimp Sensation

Using fresh shrimp can elevate this dish, but if you opt for frozen shrimp, thaw them properly beforehand to maintain their texture. A quick way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. While cooking, watch for the color change; shrimp cook quickly—about 3-4 minutes is all they need to turn from gray to pink and opaque. Overcooking will lead to rubbery shrimp, so stay vigilant and remove them from the heat once they’re done.

Remember to season the shrimp well before cooking. Salt not only brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp but also enhances the flavors of the garlic and chili. If you like an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the chili peppers as they cook, which will intensify the heat without overpowering the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

200g spaghetti or linguine
200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 red chili peppers, chopped
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving

Make sure to have everything ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bring your dish to life:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chili peppers, cooking until fragrant but not browned.

Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Combine Everything

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Mix well.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your incredible Chili Garlic Pasta with Shrimp!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Chili Garlic Pasta with Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil and some reserved pasta water over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This will help revitalize the sauce, keeping the dish moist and flavorful.

If you plan to make the pasta ahead of time for meal prep, consider cooking the pasta and shrimp separately and storing them in the fridge. You can then combine them with the sauce while reheating, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort on busy nights.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Chili Garlic Pasta with Shrimp, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula or mixed green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. The salad's peppery notes will complement the dish's spicy flavors beautifully. A side of garlic bread can also add a lovely crunch and soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.

For a gourmet touch, finish the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of lemon zest, which will add a bright, aromatic layer to the rich flavors. Pair your meal with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to balance out the heat of the chili and elevate your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for shrimp?

You can use chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option!

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can easily be adjusted by adding more or fewer chilies according to your preference.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta when you're ready to eat.