This Blackened Shrimp Pasta is a tasty dish that mixes bold spices with juicy shrimp and creamy pasta. It’s quick, filling, and totally satisfying!
I love how the shrimp gets a nice char while cooking, adding great flavor. Pair it with a simple salad, and you have a dinner that feels special without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I prefer spaghetti for its nice texture, but linguine works well too. For a gluten-free option, try using rice noodles or lentil pasta.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here, but if they aren’t available, any size will do. Use cooked shrimp if you’re short on time, just watch the cooking time closely.
Spices: The spice mix is key for that blackened flavor. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the spices; you can use Cajun seasoning as a quick substitute.
Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch at the end. If you don’t have any, fresh basil or even arugula can lend a great flavor twist.
Butter vs. Olive Oil: While I used olive oil, you could replace part of the olive oil with butter for a richer flavor if you prefer.
How Can I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Blackened?
Getting that blackened look and flavor means using high heat and not overcrowding the pan. Here’s how to do it right:
- Dry the shrimp thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning. This helps them caramelize better.
- Preheat your skillet until it’s hot—this is key! If it’s not hot enough, the shrimp will steam instead of blackening.
- Cook in batches if necessary. Give shrimp enough space to cook evenly. If the pan is crowded, they’ll release moisture and won’t get that nice blackened crust.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp and don’t overcook them. They take just 2-3 minutes per side. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
How to Make Blackened Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional, for sauce)
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blackened Shrimp Pasta takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and the shrimp, and then about 15 minutes putting everything together in the skillet. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside for now.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This flavorful spice mix will give your shrimp that lovely blackened coating!
3. Season the Shrimp:
Take a paper towel and pat the shrimp dry to remove any excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the prepared spice mixture until all the shrimp are evenly coated. This is where the flavor begins!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they become blackened and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
5. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them now and cook for another 2-3 minutes to create a light sauce.
6. Add Liquid to the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth or white wine, if you’re using it, and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as they add lots of flavor. Allow the sauce to reduce slightly for a richer taste.
7. Combine the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it gently to coat in the sauce. If you find that the pasta looks dry, you can add some of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Mix in the Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through. This step is all about mixing those delicious flavors together!
9. Finish with Freshness:
Stir in the chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you want to, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Blackened Shrimp Pasta is ready to be served! Dish it out onto plates and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges on the side for some zesty flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by running them under cold water in a sealed bag for about 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! If you like it spicier, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper in the spice mix. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or sliced fresh jalapeños when cooking the shrimp for an extra kick.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help refresh the pasta and prevent it from drying out.
What Should I Serve with Blackened Shrimp Pasta?
This dish is great on its own, but you could serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. Garlic bread or a light white wine also pairs nicely with the flavors of the shrimp pasta!
