18 Spicy Shrimp Pasta Recipes with Rich Red Sauce

recipesforlife

April 8, 2025

Are you looking for a culinary thrill that will leave your taste buds doing the tango? Look no further than these 18 spicy shrimp pasta recipes with rich, bold, and mouth-watering red sauces! From classic spaghetti dishes to creative fusion flavors, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something fiery and adventurous or comforting and familiar, our collection of shrimp pasta recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.

With a medley of spicy ingredients like chipotle peppers, harissa, and cajun seasoning, these recipes will transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast, where the flavors are as bold as they are delicious. And with shrimp as the star of the show, you can’t go wrong! So grab your apron, get ready to ignite your taste buds, and dive into our collection of spicy shrimp pasta recipes below.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in Tomato Basil Sauce

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta in Tomato Basil Sauce
This mouthwatering pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich tomato basil sauce, all wrapped up in garlic butter goodness. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a large saucepan, combine tomato sauce, chopped basil, and remaining 1 tbsp butter. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter shrimp, and tomato basil sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Pasta

Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Pasta
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this spicy and savory shrimp pasta dish! Inspired by Italian cuisine, this recipe combines succulent shrimp, bold spices, and a hint of heat.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz linguine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in arrabbiata sauce and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked linguine with the spicy shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired). Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Creamy Tomato Shrimp Linguine

Creamy Tomato Shrimp Linguine
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy tomato shrimp linguine dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes), diced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz linguine pasta

Instructions:

1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in basil, salt, and pepper. Add cooked shrimp and toss with linguine pasta.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Roasted Red Pepper Shrimp Penne

Roasted Red Pepper Shrimp Penne
Roasted Red Pepper Shrimp Penne: A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with the sweetness of roasted red peppers.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced red peppers and minced garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Add cooked shrimp to the skillet with roasted peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta and shrimp mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
This spicy pasta dish combines succulent shrimp, flavorful sausage, and a kick of heat from Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pasta of your choice
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp to skillet; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage, and shrimp mixture. Toss with chicken broth and Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Fettuccine

Sun-Dried Tomato Shrimp Fettuccine
A flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a bed of al dente fettuccine.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine with the shrimp mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Angel Hair Pasta

Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Angel Hair Pasta
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a spicy tomato sauce and delicate angel hair pasta for a flavorful and quick dinner. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz angel hair pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes, white wine (if using), tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with shrimp and sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Tomato Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti

Tomato Garlic Shrimp Spaghetti
A flavorful and quick weeknight dinner option that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory taste of garlic and succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a delicious spaghetti dish.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with reserved pasta water, garlic shrimp mixture, salt, and pepper to combine. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Spicy Harissa Shrimp Pasta

Spicy Harissa Shrimp Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and spicy dish, packed with succulent shrimp and a hint of North African flair.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in harissa paste and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with shrimp mixture and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp Marinara with Whole Wheat Pasta

Shrimp Marinara with Whole Wheat Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the tanginess of marinara sauce, all wrapped up in a serving of whole wheat pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup whole wheat pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the shrimp. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water with the shrimp marinara mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Cherry Tomato and Shrimp Orzo in Red Sauce

Cherry Tomato and Shrimp Orzo in Red Sauce
This vibrant pasta dish combines succulent shrimp, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy orzo in a rich red sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz orzo
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and red sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked orzo with the tomato-shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Spicy Chipotle Shrimp Rigatoni

Spicy Chipotle Shrimp Rigatoni
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with succulent shrimp and al dente rigatoni, creating a spicy yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz (340g) rigatoni
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tsp (5ml) smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
7. Combine cooked rigatoni with the shrimp mixture and toss to coat.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp Puttanesca with Olives and Capers

Shrimp Puttanesca with Olives and Capers
This classic Italian dish combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of olives, capers, garlic, and tomatoes. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add olives, capers, and crushed tomatoes.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with the puttanesca sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Arrabbiata

Roasted Garlic Shrimp Penne Arrabbiata
A spicy and savory pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with the bold flavors of roasted garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of heat.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4-6 garlic cloves, separated into individual bulbs
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss garlic bulbs with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the shrimp and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to release their juices.
6. Stir in Arrabbiata sauce and roasted garlic bulbs. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Tomato Basil Shrimp Farfalle

Tomato Basil Shrimp Farfalle
In this recipe, succulent shrimp are paired with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the freshness of basil in a flavorful farfalle dish. This quick and easy meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz (340g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pint (280g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz (225g) farfalle pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked farfalle, shrimp, and tomato mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Spicy Calabrian Chili Shrimp Linguine

Spicy Calabrian Chili Shrimp Linguine
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy and savory Spicy Calabrian Chili Shrimp Linguine recipe, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a bold and aromatic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup Calabrian chili peppers, chopped
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and Calabrian chili peppers; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add white wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Toss cooked linguine with the spicy sauce and serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Shrimp and Mushroom Pappardelle in Tomato Cream Sauce

Shrimp and Mushroom Pappardelle in Tomato Cream Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of succulent shrimp, earthy mushrooms, and rich tomato cream sauce with tender pappardelle pasta.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato cream sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp and mushrooms in garlic over medium-high heat until pink and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add tomato cream sauce and stir to combine with the shrimp and mushroom mixture. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes

Fire-Roasted Tomato Shrimp Bucatini

Fire-Roasted Tomato Shrimp Bucatini
This recipe combines the smoky sweetness of fire-roasted tomatoes with succulent shrimp and a rich, creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a deliciously chewy bucatini.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz bucatini pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fire-roasted tomatoes (see note)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 8-10 minutes or until pink.
3. Cook bucatini according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, combine fire-roasted tomatoes and heavy cream. Simmer over medium heat until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add cooked shrimp to the tomato sauce and toss to coat.
6. Combine cooked bucatini with the shrimp-tomato mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 spicy shrimp pasta recipes featuring rich red sauces! From classic garlic butter and tomato basil to spicy Cajun and saucy harissa, there’s a dish for every heat level. These mouthwatering recipes combine succulent shrimp with bold flavors like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and chipotle chili. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy tomato or spicy puttanesca, these pasta dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

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