Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta

This smoky creamy Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta Recipe is made with plump shrimp, adobo sauce, and heavy cream, and ready in just 25 minutes. The magic happens when the spicy orange sauce perfectly coats the pan-seared seafood and noodles. I love making this on busy weeknights when I crave something with a real kick.

Why This Classic Works

I used to struggle with cream sauces splitting when I added acidic ingredients like lime juice. The trick I learned is lowering the heat completely before stirring in the dairy.

Using canned chipotle peppers in adobo gives you complete control over the heat level. I start with just two peppers, which provides a steady warmth without completely overwhelming the delicate shrimp.

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Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta Recipe Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

How To Make Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta Recipe

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook the penne in salted boiling water according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the shrimp, salt, and pepper, and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink.
3. Build the Flavor Base: Remove the shrimp, lower the heat to medium, and saute the minced garlic and chopped chipotle peppers for 1 minute.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
5. Combine and Serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cooked pasta, and shrimp, tossing well before finishing with lime juice and cilantro.

Recipe Tips

• Adjust the heat: Start with one chipotle pepper if you are sensitive to spice, as adobo sauce packs a punch.
• Save pasta water: Keep a splash of starchy pasta water to help thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the pan quickly so they remain tender and juicy.

What To Serve With Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Pasta

A crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cream sauce beautifully. You can also serve this with warm garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the spicy sauce.

How To Store

Keep leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring the cream sauce back together. I do not recommend freezing this dish because the dairy will separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use half and half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and has a higher risk of curdling. If you use half and half, keep the heat very low.

What kind of pasta works best?
Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine are excellent choices. You want a shape that holds thick cream sauces well.

Can I substitute chicken for shrimp?
Absolutely. Diced chicken breast works perfectly in this dish. Just ensure you cook it completely through before removing it from the pan.

Nutrition

• Calories: 580 kcal
• Total Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Cholesterol: 240 mg
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
• Protein: 34 g