12 Shrimp Pasta Recipes That So Good, You’ll Skip Takeout Every Time

12 Shrimp Pasta Recipes That Are So Good, You’ll Skip Takeout Every Time – because nothing beats the satisfaction of a restaurant-quality seafood pasta made in your own kitchen. These foolproof recipes transform simple ingredients into extraordinary meals, combining plump, juicy shrimp with al dente pasta in creamy, garlicky, or zesty sauces that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. From quick 20-minute weeknight dinners to impressive date night dishes, we’ve curated shrimp pasta perfection for every occasion and craving.

Picture twirling your fork around tender linguine coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with succulent shrimp, or digging into a vibrant lemon garlic scampi that bursts with bright flavors. Whether you love classic Italian preparations, spicy Cajun kicks, or light and fresh Mediterranean-inspired dishes, these recipes deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. We’ve included pro tips for perfectly cooked shrimp every time, along with easy substitutions to make each dish your own. Get ready to fall in love with homemade pasta night all over again!

Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles

Shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is a fantastic twist on a classic dish. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp and vibrant, fresh zucchini for a light, healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. The garlic and lemon create a zesty sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp, while the zucchini noodles offer a satisfying yet low-carb alternative to pasta.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles will definitely make you skip takeout!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the noodles are slightly tender.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine

Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with perfectly cooked linguine, all enveloped in a rich and buttery garlic sauce. The flavors are simple yet comforting, making this meal a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, it’s pretty easy to whip up, so you won’t have to rely on takeout!

This dish shines with the freshness of garlic and the sweetness of shrimp, creating a wonderful balance that’s hard to resist. Serve it up with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce, and you have a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces linguine pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine: Add the remaining butter and cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss everything together, then squeeze lemon juice over the top and stir in fresh parsley.
4. Serve: Plate the linguine and shrimp, garnishing with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy with your favorite bread!

Lemon Basil Shrimp Spaghetti

Lemon Basil Shrimp Spaghetti is a refreshing and light dish that combines succulent shrimp with the bright flavors of lemon and fresh basil. It’s a quick meal that captures the essence of summer, making it perfect for any occasion. Tossed with spaghetti, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

The balance of zesty lemon and aromatic basil elevates the dish, while the shrimp add a protein boost that keeps everyone satisfied. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delightful pasta that’s sure to impress without taking up too much of your time!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Lemon and Basil: Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Add the cooked spaghetti and chopped basil, tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Plate the pasta and top with halved cherry tomatoes and additional basil if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Basil Shrimp Spaghetti!

Spicy Shrimp Penne Arrabbiata

If you’re craving a dish that packs a punch, Spicy Shrimp Penne Arrabbiata is the way to go. This pasta recipe features perfectly cooked shrimp tossed with penne in a spicy tomato sauce that will surely wake up your taste buds. It’s not just tasty; it’s also simple to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

The bold flavors from garlic and red pepper flakes combined with the sweetness of tomatoes create a delightful sauce that clings to the pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a fantastic alternative to takeout and will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Combine: Toss the cooked penne into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce, stirring until well combined.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Coconut Curry Shrimp Pasta

Coconut Curry Shrimp Pasta is a delightful fusion that brings together the creaminess of coconut milk and the warmth of curry spices. This dish offers a tropical twist, making it both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!

With succulent shrimp nestled in tender pasta, every bite is a burst of flavor. The coconut milk adds a rich, velvety texture, while the curry powder introduces an enticing hint of spice. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, and maybe even skipping takeout altogether!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the diced bell pepper and cook until softened.
3. Add Shrimp and Spices: Stir in the shrimp, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Combine with Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Add spinach and let it wilt in the sauce.
5. Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to combine all ingredients and coat the pasta with the curry sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy your Coconut Curry Shrimp Pasta!

Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Shrimp Alfredo with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a perfect choice! This creamy pasta dish combines succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes in a rich Alfredo sauce. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser any night of the week.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also simple to whip up. In about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying dinner without the hassle of takeout.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Add the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
5. Combine: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Add the cooked fettuccine and mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Alfredo!

Pesto Shrimp Pasta Salad

Pesto Shrimp Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of basil pesto with tender shrimp and al dente pasta. This salad is not only tasty but also super simple to whip up, making it a perfect option for a quick lunch or dinner. The juicy shrimp paired with the aromatic pesto creates a burst of flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.

The addition of cherry tomatoes and greens adds a pop of color and extra crunch, making this salad visually appealing as well. Ideal for summer gatherings or meal prep, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it warm or chilled, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups arugula or spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, sautéed shrimp, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Toss until well combined.
4. Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine is an exciting dish that marries the rich, flavorful taste of Cajun spices with tender shrimp and silky fettuccine. The cream sauce adds a luxurious touch, balancing the heat with a smooth finish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it comes together quickly, making it a go-to recipe for those busy days when you still want a delicious homemade meal.

This dish is all about layers of flavor. The Cajun seasoning provides a nice kick, while the fettuccine soaks up the creamy sauce for a comfortable, satisfying bite. You don’t have to be a culinary expert to whip this up; it’s simple enough for anyone to make, yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta Primavera

Shrimp and Asparagus Pasta Primavera is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the fresh flavors of spring vegetables and succulent shrimp. This meal is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a quick weekend treat.

The combination of tender asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked shrimp tossed with pasta creates a bright and satisfying meal. A hint of lemon adds a refreshing zesty touch, making every bite a burst of flavor. Enjoy this dish with a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra layer of deliciousness!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and asparagus, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the asparagus is tender. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Add the Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp, lemon juice, and zest. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine well. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

Buffalo Shrimp Pasta with Blue Cheese

This Buffalo Shrimp Pasta with Blue Cheese is an exciting twist on classic pasta dishes. It combines spicy buffalo sauce with tender shrimp and creamy blue cheese for a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Perfect for dinner during the week, it’s simple enough to whip up in no time while still being impressive enough for guests.

The blend of spice and creaminess makes every bite a delightful experience, and you’ll find yourself going back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy your pasta in a whole new way!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Celery sticks, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in the buffalo sauce and toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Cook for another minute.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together until well combined.
6. Serve the pasta topped with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onions. Garnish with celery sticks for a refreshing crunch.

Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta Bake

This Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the coast right to your dinner table. With tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and vibrant veggies, every bite is full of taste. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal or a cozy gathering with friends.

The combination of pasta, shrimp, and Mediterranean ingredients creates a comforting yet refreshing experience. You’ll love the burst of flavors from olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs, all baked to perfection. It’s a simple recipe that feels special, ensuring you’ll skip takeout every time!

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cups spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about a minute.
4. Add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, spinach, and olives, cooking until the spinach wilts.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, oregano, salt, pepper, and half of the feta cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining feta cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until heated through and slightly golden on top.
8. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and enjoy your Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta Bake!

Tomato and Basil Shrimp Orzo

This Tomato and Basil Shrimp Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of tomatoes and basil with succulent shrimp, all served over perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

With its bright colors and vibrant taste, this recipe is not only pleasing to the palate but incredibly easy to prepare. In about 30 minutes, you can whip up this tasty meal that everybody will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this wonderful dish!

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.
3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
4. Combine: Add the cooked orzo and fresh basil to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Plate the orzo and shrimp mixture, garnishing with extra basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Final Thoughts

Once you discover how effortless and rewarding it is to create shrimp pasta masterpieces at home, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for takeout. These recipes prove that with a few quality ingredients and simple techniques, you can whip up meals that taste like they came from your favorite Italian bistro. The versatility of shrimp pasta means there’s always a new flavor combination to try – creamy or light, spicy or mild, simple or sophisticated. So grab your skillet, stock up on fresh shrimp, and prepare to make pasta night the highlight of your week. Your taste buds (and wallet) will thank you!