Chilis Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Craving something creamy and a little spicy? Chili’s Cajun Shrimp Pasta might be right up your alley.

With its delicious combination of shrimp, penne pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce, this dish brings the warmth of Cajun spices to your table.

When I prepare it, I always use fresh garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for that extra punch of flavor.

There’s a lot of flexibility with this one—not a fan of shrimp? Try substituting with grilled chicken!

How to Make Chilis Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz. Spaghetti
• 1 lb. Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup Pasta Water
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the spaghetti and let it cook until al dente, according to package instructions.

Drain the pasta and reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2:

Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.

In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Step 3:

Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4:

Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines into a creamy sauce.

Add salt and pepper to your taste.

Mix in the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.

Step 5:

Return the cooked shrimp and drained spaghetti to the skillet.

Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Perfect Pasta

Always salt your pasta water generously to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

This small step can make a noticeable difference in taste.

Sauce Consistency

Keep an eye on the sauce, as reducing it too much can cause it to become overly thick.

You can easily thin it with additional pasta water if necessary.

Customizing Spice

Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your personal spice preference.

This dish should please your palate with the right level of heat.

Freshness Factor

Using fresh shrimp rather than frozen will enhance the dish’s taste.

If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.

Garnish with Care

Don’t skip garnishing with fresh parsley!

It not only adds vibrant color but also complements the flavors perfectly.

What to Serve with Chili’s Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side that complements Chili’s Shrimp Pasta beautifully.

The buttery richness combined with a crispy texture makes it perfect for soaking up the Alfredo sauce.

Bake some fresh garlic bread or simply toast a baguette with garlic butter, and you’ve got a winning side dish.

Caesar Salad

A Caesar Salad adds a refreshing element to your meal, balancing the richness of the pasta.

Crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons create a texture contrast that pairs well with the shrimp.

Sprinkle some parmesan on top for an extra kick of flavor.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for something a bit different, roasted Brussels sprouts are a great choice.

Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until crispy, these sprouts bring an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the pasta.

Add a splash of balsamic glaze for a sweet-savory twist.

Mango Salsa

For those who enjoy a bit of a tropical flair, mango salsa can be a refreshing surprise on your plate.

The sweetness of mango combined with the slight heat of jalapeños brings a vibrant contrast to the creamy shrimp pasta.

Serve it on the side or even as a topping if you’re feeling adventurous.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is not only fun to eat but also a charming addition to your meal.

Brush it with some lime-chili butter, and grill until it slightly chars, enhancing its natural sweetness.

This unexpected side will certainly add some zest to your dinner table.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap the Shrimp

If you’re not in the mood for shrimp, you can substitute it with chicken or tofu.

Both options soak up flavors beautifully and maintain a similar cooking time.

Select boneless, skinless chicken breast or extra firm tofu for the best results.

Pasta Choices

Experiment with different types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or even whole grain if you prefer.

Each type offers a slightly different texture that changes the vibe of the dish.

Try spaghetti for a classic feel or penne for a more modern twist!

Spice Level Adjustments

To tailor the spice level, use more or less chili powder or flakes.

Some may prefer a hotter kick, while others may want a milder experience.

If you have young ones dining with you, choose a mild Cajun seasoning to start.

Veggie Add-Ins

Mix in vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to add nutrition and color.

These veggies complement the dish perfectly and can be sautéed alongside the shrimp.

Sometimes, a splash of green just makes the plate feel complete!

How to Store Leftover Chili’s Shrimp Pasta

When it comes to storing leftover Chili’s shrimp pasta, using an airtight container can work wonders.

Ensure the entire dish is completely cooled before transferring it to the container.

This practice prevents any moisture buildup, which can lead to unwanted sogginess.

Refrigeration is Key

Place the airtight container with the pasta into the fridge as soon as possible.

This helps maintain the freshness for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy it later.

Keep the shrimp pasta away from foods with strong odors to prevent flavor absorption.

Use Olive Oil

Adding a little olive oil can prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Toss the pasta gently to coat it with oil after placing it in the container.

This step will keep the leftover pasta smooth and ready for reheating.

Freezing for Longevity

If you’re planning to store the pasta for longer, freezing is an excellent option.

Separate the pasta and shrimp into individual freezer bags for easy thawing later.

Using freezer-safe bags or containers will give you satisfying results!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Shrimp

When preparing shrimp pasta, overcooking the shrimp can turn them tough and rubbery.

They cook quickly, usually in just a few minutes.

Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

Using Too Much Oil

Adding too much oil to the dish can make it greasy.

You want enough to create a nice coating, but not so much that it overwhelms the other flavors.

Aim to use enough oil to lightly sauté without saturating.

Burning the Garlic

Burning garlic is a common mishap that leads to a bitter taste.

Garlic cooks quickly, so keep a close eye and sauté it for less than a minute.

This ensures a fragrant, delightful aroma without the risk of bitterness.