Easy Spicy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Pasta dinners are always a favourite because they bring comfort, flavour, and satisfaction to the table, but when you add shrimp and chipotle, the dish transforms into something truly irresistible. This spicy chipotle shrimp pasta combines tender shrimp, smoky chipotle peppers, and a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. It strikes a balance between heat, creaminess, and rich flavours that make it a standout recipe for any night of the week.
Whether you are planning a cozy family dinner or looking for an impressive yet easy meal to serve to guests, this recipe delivers both taste and simplicity. The best part is how quickly it comes together, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With fresh shrimp, hearty pasta, and a spicy kick, this dish promises to become a new favourite in your recipe collection.
Why You Need This Recipe
This recipe is perfect if you enjoy bold flavours without complicated cooking. Shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, making the dish quick and effortless, while chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add depth and a smoky spiciness that sets it apart from regular pasta. It is also versatile, as you can adjust the spice level and choose your favourite pasta shape to match your preference.
Another reason to love this recipe is its balance of nutrition and indulgence. Shrimp is a lean source of protein, while the pasta provides energy and the creamy sauce adds just the right amount of richness. With fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime, the flavors brighten even more, making this recipe one you will want to cook again and again.
Ingredients
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a bold and creamy pasta dish. Below is a detailed ingredient table along with approximate calorie counts per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 1 pound | 400 |
| Pasta (penne or spaghetti) | 12 ounces | 600 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Chipotle peppers in adobo | 2 tablespoons | 40 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup | 200 |
| Lime juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
| Fresh cilantro (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | 0 |
Total Calories (approx): 2300
Calories per serving (4 servings): 575
How to Prepare
Start by cooking the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining, as this can be used later to loosen the sauce. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, stir in the chipotle peppers and heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy. Toss in the cooked pasta and coat it well with the sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan, add a splash of lime juice, and season with salt and pepper. If the sauce feels too thick, mix in some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect consistency. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Pro Tips
When preparing this spicy chipotle shrimp pasta, always aim for fresh shrimp whenever possible since it provides the best flavor and texture, though thawed frozen shrimp can also work well. The spice level can be adjusted easily by increasing or reducing the amount of chipotle peppers, which makes the recipe adaptable to everyone’s taste. Saving a little pasta water before draining is essential because it helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Adding a small pat of butter toward the end enriches the sauce with a smooth finish, while a squeeze of fresh lime brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess beautifully.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
This spicy chipotle shrimp pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also an excellent side to soak up the creamy sauce. For toppings, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, extra cilantro, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take the flavours to another level. A refreshing glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the smoky and spicy notes perfectly.
Conclusion
Easy spicy chipotle shrimp pasta is a bold, flavourful dish that combines creamy, smoky, and spicy flavours in every bite. It is quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for special occasions. With tender shrimp, rich sauce, and customizable spice levels, this recipe is one that will satisfy pasta lovers and spice enthusiasts alike. Add it to your recipe rotation, and you will always have a delicious meal to look forward to.
