Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti
If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances heat, zest, and the delicate sweetness of shrimp, then this Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti is exactly what your dinner table needs. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp swimming in a fiery, garlicky tomato sauce, tossed with al dente spaghetti, and finished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough to impress guests. Whether you’re a fan of bold Italian flavors or just love seafood pasta, this dish brings all the excitement to your plate.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a simple yet bold pasta dish like this. The Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti combines the vibrant flavors of crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes with the succulent texture of shrimp. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the garlic and fresh basil add an aromatic punch that keeps you coming back for more. I also love how versatile it is—you can easily adjust the spice level or swap the shrimp for other proteins to suit your mood.
Ingredient Checklist
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Before You Start: Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta – to cook the spaghetti perfectly.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the shrimp and sauce.
- Colander – to drain the pasta.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce.
- Knife and cutting board – to mince garlic and chop basil.
- Measuring spoons – to ensure the right spice balance.
Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water will help marry the sauce and pasta later.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in your skillet. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Arrabbiata Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds to release the aromas, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat every strand. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky texture.
Step 5: Add Shrimp and Fresh Basil
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top and give it one last toss. The basil adds a fresh, herbal brightness that perfectly complements the spicy tomato sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Divide the pasta among plates and finish each serving with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra touch, drizzle a little more olive oil or add a few fresh basil leaves on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredient Flex Options
- Shrimp alternatives: Swap shrimp for scallops, firm white fish, or even chicken breast strips if preferred.
- Spice level: Adjust red pepper flakes to your taste, or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes if you want a chunkier sauce, or tomato puree for a smoother texture.
- Herbs: Try adding fresh oregano or parsley along with or instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Behind the Recipe
This Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti is inspired by traditional Italian arrabbiata sauce, which is known for its spicy kick from red pepper flakes and the robust flavor of garlic and tomatoes. The addition of shrimp not only adds protein but also introduces a lovely sweetness that balances the heat. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity—using pantry staples yet delivering restaurant-quality flavor.
- The name “arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, referring to the spicy heat of the sauce.
- Using fresh basil at the end keeps the dish vibrant and aromatic.
- The reserved pasta water is a chef’s secret to silky, cohesive sauces.
Storage Pro Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the shrimp and pasta.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain texture.
- Fresh basil is best added fresh upon serving rather than reheating.
Handy Q&A
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp a day in advance, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. This keeps the pasta from getting soggy.
What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
You can use canned diced tomatoes and blend them slightly for a smoother texture or substitute tomato sauce, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
How spicy is this recipe?
The heat comes from the red pepper flakes, which is about medium spice. You can reduce or increase the amount to suit your heat preference.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Explore More
- For a creamy seafood pasta twist, try this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini.
- If you love bold flavors and rice bowls, don’t miss the Honey Sriracha Shrimp Rice Bowls.
- For a hearty, spicy rice skillet, check out the Cajun Shrimp Andouille Style Rice Skillet.
Before You Go
Ready to spice up your dinner routine? This Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its bold flavors and quick prep. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, it’s a dish that delivers both simplicity and sophistication in every bite.
Grab your ingredients, turn up the heat, and savor every mouthful of this fiery, flavorful pasta creation. And don’t forget to explore the other shrimp-packed recipes for even more delicious inspiration!
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Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in your skillet. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the sauce and toss well to coat. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick to create a silky texture.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently stir to combine. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top and toss once more.
- Divide the pasta among plates and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Optionally, drizzle a little more olive oil or add fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Swap shrimp for scallops, firm white fish, or chicken strips for variation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.
