If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes with a touch of spice, this Creamy Sweet Chili Shrimp Pasta will be your new favorite! Combining succulent shrimp, linguine or fettuccine, and a unique, creamy sauce with sweet chili and sriracha, this recipe balances heat and sweetness for a deliciously addictive flavor. The addition of Parmesan adds a rich, savory element, while fresh cilantro adds brightness to this comforting dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, this pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

• While the pasta is cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir well to create a smooth sauce. Taste and adjust the sriracha if you want more heat.

4. Sauté the Garlic

• Using the same skillet you cooked the shrimp in, add the minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

5. Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Shrimp

• Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic. Pour the sweet chili mayo sauce over the pasta, tossing gently to coat. Add the cooked shrimp and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Season and Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
• Serve the pasta warm with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for anyone who wants a little extra.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This estimate is based on a serving size of 1/4 of the recipe:

• Calories: 670 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 1220mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta less spicy?

• Absolutely! Adjust the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether for a milder, sweet flavor. You can also add more mayonnaise to dilute the heat.

2. What other types of pasta can I use?

• Any long pasta like spaghetti, tagliatelle, or bucatini would work well in this recipe. For a twist, you could even try penne or fusilli for a different texture.

3. Can I substitute something for the mayonnaise?

• For a lighter sauce, try using Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of some or all of the mayonnaise. Note that these substitutions may alter the flavor slightly, adding a tangier note.

4. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

• Yes! Omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Ensure your mayonnaise is also dairy-free if using a specialty brand.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

• Absolutely. Sliced bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes would make delicious additions. Simply sauté them in the skillet after cooking the shrimp for added color and nutrition.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Sweet Chili Shrimp Pasta

1. Use Fresh or Quality Frozen Shrimp: Large shrimp with tails removed work best, as they’re easy to eat with the pasta. Thaw frozen shrimp before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
2. Cook Shrimp Just Until Done: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. They should be pink and slightly firm, taking only about 3-4 minutes total.
3. Adjust the Sauce Consistency: Using reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce while keeping it creamy. Add it slowly to avoid thinning the sauce too much.
4. Serve Immediately for Best Results: This pasta tastes best when freshly made. If reheating, add a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy texture.
5. Experiment with Garnishes: While cilantro adds a fresh element, you can also garnish with green onions, chives, or a pinch of crushed red pepper for added color and flavor.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration:

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp separate if possible to avoid overcooking when reheating.

Freezing: