Spicy Shrimp Spaghetti with Zucchini and Garlic Herb Butter

Get ready for a pasta dish that packs a punch! This spicy shrimp spaghetti combines succulent shrimp, fresh zucchini and a generous kick from chili pepper. The garlic herb butter and Parmesan cheese bring everything together into a rich, flavorful sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes. Adjust the chili pepper to your heat preference-use less for a mild version or add extra for those who love fire. Serve it piping hot for a satisfying meal that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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Ingredients

0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit ZucchiniView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

10 ounce ShrimpView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon Garlic Herb ButterView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

6 ounce SpaghettiView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit Chili PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

5 teaspoon (tsp) Olive OilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
2. While the pasta cooks, trim the ends of the zucchini and cut it into half-moons or small dice. Thinly slice the chili pepper (remove seeds for less heat).
3. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the zucchini and chili pepper slices. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender-crisp.
6. Reduce the heat to low and add the garlic herb butter to the skillet. Stir until melted, then return the shrimp to the pan. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss gently to incorporate. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly.

What can I substitute for garlic herb butter?

Mix 2 tablespoons of softened butter with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (like parsley or oregano).

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water.