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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I usually go for spaghetti or linguine. Both give a nice bite, but you can switch to penne or fettuccine if you like! Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the pasta type you choose.

Shrimp: For this dish, large shrimp are best, but if they’re not available, medium shrimp work too. If you’re looking for a non-seafood option, try using chicken strips seasoned in the same way!

Spices: Smoked paprika is key for that deep flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika works, but it won’t have the same smokiness. You can also play around with the cayenne based on your spice tolerance!

Heavy cream: This gives the sauce a creamy finish. If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream, but it might change the flavor a bit.

How Do I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Blackened?

Blackening shrimp gives them great flavor and a satisfying crunch. The trick is in the spices and cooking time.

• Start by patting the shrimp dry. This helps the seasonings stick and prevents steaming.
• Coat the shrimp lightly with olive oil before adding the spice mix. This ensures a better sear!
• When cooking, give the shrimp enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding them can lead to steaming instead of that nice char.
• Cook the shrimp quickly on medium-high heat, about 2 minutes per side until they look nice and blackened.

These tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality blackened shrimp right at home!

How to Make Blackened Shrimp Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta

For the Blackened Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for shrimp)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients and 20 minutes to cook everything. Quick and delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta—spaghetti or linguine—and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. It will be added to the sauce later.

2. Prepare the Blackening Spice:

In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This will be your flavorful blackening spice!

3. Season the Shrimp:

Take the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better. Toss the shrimp in olive oil, then coat them evenly with the blackening spice mix you just made. Make sure every shrimp is well covered!

4. Cook the Shrimp:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are blackened and fully cooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

5. Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. When it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, making sure it doesn’t burn. Then, slowly stir in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

6. Add Cream and Seasonings:

Next, pour in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the freshly chopped parsley. Stir well, and taste the sauce for seasoning, adjusting with salt and pepper as needed.

7. Combine Everything:

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it gently to coat the noodles. Then, return the blackened shrimp to the skillet and give everything a good mix.

8. Serve:

Your Blackened Shrimp Pasta is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat.

Enjoy your flavorful and spicy Blackened Shrimp Pasta!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to leave them in the fridge overnight, or you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. If you want a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens.

Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice mix to your spice preference. Additionally, adding more red pepper flakes when serving will kick up the heat. You might also include a dash of hot sauce in the sauce for extra spice!