Shrimp Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together juicy shrimp, al dente pasta, and a rich, garlicky tomato sauce. Light enough for a weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to serve guests, this recipe delivers classic Italian-style comfort with minimal effort.
Whether you’re craving seafood pasta or need a fast, satisfying meal, this dish comes together quickly and tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
- Fresh & Flavorful – Juicy shrimp in a savory tomato sauce
- Family-Friendly – Mild, comforting flavors
- Light Yet Satisfying – Perfect balance of pasta and protein
- Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples + fresh shrimp
- Customizable – Easy to make spicy or extra saucy
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1½ cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup pasta water (as needed)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
Boil pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain. - Cook Shrimp:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside. - Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. - Add Tomato Sauce:
Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes. - Combine:
Add shrimp back to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss gently, adding pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. - Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan if desired.
How to Serve
- Plating Tips: Twist pasta into bowls and top with shrimp and herbs
- Side Pairings: Garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables
- Leftover Uses: Reheat gently for lunch the next day
- Beverage Pairing: Sparkling water, lemonade, or white wine
Additional Tips
- Don’t overcook shrimp, they cook very fast
- Use high-quality tomato sauce for best flavor
- Add a splash of cream for a rosé-style sauce
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add more chili flakes or chili oil
- Creamy Twist: Stir in ¼ cup cream at the end
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach or cherry tomatoes
- Garlic Lovers: Add extra garlic or roasted garlic
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days
- Freeze: Not recommended (shrimp texture changes)
- Reheat: Stovetop with a splash of water or sauce
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Tongs or pasta spoon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of sauce?
Absolutely, crushed or diced tomatoes work well.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein and lighter than creamy pasta dishes.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well.
Conclusion
Shrimp Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a classic, flavorful meal that’s quick, comforting, and endlessly versatile. With tender shrimp, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.
