Pasta con camarones, or shrimp pasta, is one of those dishes that can instantly transport you to a cozy coastal kitchen. With tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and a sauce that’s bursting with flavor—this meal comes together beautifully and is perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s great for busy evenings.
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Flavorful and Satisfying – Packed with garlic, spices, and juicy shrimp.
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Customizable – Choose your pasta, spice level, and even creaminess.
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Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress guests with a gourmet-style meal made in your own kitchen.
Ingredients List
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12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
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1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
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3 tbsp olive oil
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4 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 small onion (finely chopped)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
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1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
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1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamy version)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Salt and pepper to taste
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
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Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pasta con Camarones
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 2 minutes. Add red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Deglaze
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes. Deglaze the pan with white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any bits from the bottom.
Step 5: Build the Creamy or Light Sauce
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For a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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For a lighter version, skip the cream and use more broth or reserved pasta water.
Add Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and stir to blend the flavors.
Step 6: Toss Everything Together
Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is well-coated. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
Fresh vs. Frozen
Frozen shrimp work perfectly if you don’t have access to fresh seafood. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Tail-On vs. Tail-Off
Tail-on shrimp add a nice presentation, but tail-off is more convenient for eating. Choose based on your preference.
Best Pasta Types for This Dish
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Long noodles like fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti allow the sauce to cling well.
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Short pastas like penne or rigatoni work if you want more bite and texture.
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Gluten-free options like brown rice pasta can be used if needed.
Optional Add-Ins for Variety
Vegetables
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Spinach or kale
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Bell peppers
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Zucchini
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Mushrooms
Cheese
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Mozzarella for extra meltiness
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Goat cheese for a tangy twist
Herbs & Spices
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Basil or thyme for added depth
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Smoked paprika for warmth
Creamy vs. Non-Creamy Versions
Both versions of pasta con camarones are delicious. The creamy option is indulgent, while the lighter version lets the shrimp shine more clearly.
How to Make It Spicy
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add:
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Extra red pepper flakes
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A pinch of cayenne
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A drizzle of chili oil at the end
Perfect Pairings
Side Dishes
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Garlic bread
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Caesar salad
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Grilled asparagus
Wine
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A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
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Rosé or Pinot Grigio for lighter versions
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
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Avoid microwave if possible, to preserve shrimp texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep the shrimp, chop the veggies, and even cook the pasta ahead of time. Store each component separately and assemble when ready to serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking shrimp – They become rubbery if cooked too long.
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Not salting the pasta water – This is essential for flavor.
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Using too much cream – It can overpower the delicate shrimp flavor.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end just to warm them through, so they don’t become rubbery.
What’s the best way to make it dairy-free?
Skip the cream and cheese. Use more broth or a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture.
Can I substitute chicken?
Absolutely. Sliced chicken breast or even tofu works well in place of shrimp.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth and cheese are gluten-free.
Can I freeze pasta con camarones?
It’s not ideal due to the shrimp and creamy sauce, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Conclusion
Pasta con camarones is a standout recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you keep it light or go rich and creamy, it’s a dish that never disappoints. With fresh shrimp, aromatic garlic, and your favorite pasta, you can make restaurant-quality seafood pasta at home—again and again.