Shrimp Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce (Easy Italian Recipe)

Name: Shrimp Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce (Easy Italian Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1/2 cup brandy (or white wine); 4 cups canned tomatoes or tomato purée; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); 1 lb spaghetti; Small bunch parsley, finely chopped; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Dash of red pepper flakes

BY Emily Parker September 28, 2025

Shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce served in a white bowl

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Looking for a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish? This shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce recipe is a quick Italian-inspired meal that brings together tender shrimp, rich tomato sauce, and a touch of cream for balance. Perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining, it’s a dish that proves simple ingredients can deliver bold, comforting flavors.

This recipe is also flexible — you can keep it classic with spaghetti, swap in linguine, or make it gluten-free. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to option when you want a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional dietary or medical advice.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

There are plenty of pasta recipes out there, but this shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce stands out for a few simple reasons:

Fast and easy: From stovetop to table in about 30 minutes.
Perfect balance of flavors: Sweet shrimp, savory garlic, and tangy tomato sauce with just a hint of cream for smoothness.
Restaurant quality at home: Elegant enough for date night, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight.
Customizable: Adjust spice with red pepper flakes, swap pasta shapes, or skip the cream for a lighter version.
Nutritious protein boost: Shrimp adds lean protein while keeping the dish light compared to heavy meat sauces.

This makes it a reliable recipe for both casual family meals and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce recipe, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients:

Shrimp (12 oz.) – Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined. Medium or large shrimp work best.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons) – For sautéing the shrimp and garlic.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped) – Adds bold aroma and flavor.
Brandy (½ cup) – For depth; you can substitute with white wine or chicken broth.
Canned tomatoes or tomato purée (4 cups) – Forms the base of the sauce.
Heavy cream (¼ cup) – Optional, but adds a silky texture.
Spaghetti (1 pound) – Classic choice, but you can swap with linguine, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta.
Fresh parsley (small bunch, finely chopped) – For a bright, fresh finish.
Salt and black pepper – To taste.
Red pepper flakes (dash) – For a gentle kick, or omit for a milder dish.

Ingredients for shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce displayed on a table

Ingredient tips:

If using frozen shrimp, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water.
For a dairy-free version, leave out the cream or use cashew cream.
Fresh tomatoes can be used in summer months, but canned tomatoes are more consistent year-round.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce with ease:

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink.
Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.

2. Make the Tomato Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
Pour in the brandy (or white wine) and let it simmer until reduced by half.
Stir in the tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Cook uncovered for 5–6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Add the cream, if using, and stir until fully incorporated.

Cooking shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce in a skillet

3. Combine with Pasta & Serve

While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
Add the shrimp back into the sauce and heat through for 1 minute.
Toss the drained pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky texture.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro tip: Always finish cooking pasta in the sauce for maximum flavor absorption.

ips for the Best Shrimp Spaghetti Tomato Sauce

Getting this dish just right is all about small details. Here are a few chef-style tips to make your shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce shine:

Choose the right shrimp size: Medium to large shrimp hold up well without overcooking.
Cook shrimp quickly: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery — 2 minutes per side is enough.
Use high-quality tomatoes: San Marzano or fire-roasted canned tomatoes give the richest flavor.
Don’t skip pasta water: The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the spaghetti.
Spice control: Add red pepper flakes early for mellow heat, or sprinkle on top at the end for a sharper kick.
Finish with fresh parsley: It balances the richness of the sauce with freshness.

These small adjustments can make the difference between a good pasta dish and an unforgettable one.

Substitutions & Variations

One of the best parts of this shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few easy swaps to suit your taste or dietary needs:

No alcohol version: Skip the brandy and use chicken broth or vegetable broth for depth.
Dairy-free option: Leave out the cream or replace it with cashew cream or unsweetened coconut cream for a rich texture.
Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or swap with rice noodles.
Different pasta shapes: Linguine, fettuccine, penne, or casarecce all work beautifully.
Extra veggies: Add spinach, zucchini ribbons, or roasted bell peppers for a heartier dish.
Seafood twist: Mix in scallops, clams, or mussels along with the shrimp for a seafood pasta medley.

These adjustments keep the recipe versatile — whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce pairs beautifully with simple sides that round out the meal without overpowering it. Here are some ideas:

Garlic bread or focaccia: Perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce.
Fresh green salad: A light side with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens balances the richness.
Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the shrimp.
Wine pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creamy tomato sauce.
For a heartier spread: Serve alongside antipasto or a classic Caprese salad.

With these additions, your shrimp spaghetti becomes part of a full Italian-style dinner experience.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers of this shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce, here’s how to keep them tasting their best:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery and lose flavor when thawed.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp will overcook quickly.

Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the tomato sauce up to 24 hours in advance, then cook the shrimp and pasta just before serving for the freshest taste.

More Delicious Pasta Recipes

If you enjoyed this shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce, you might also love these easy pasta dishes:

Try this cozy and rustic One Pot Casarecce Pasta for a hearty weeknight option.
Keep things ultra-simple with a quick 3 Ingredient One Pot Pasta, perfect for busy days.
For a creamy twist, check out the comforting Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

These recipes are just as approachable and satisfying, giving you more reasons to bring Italian flavors to your table.

Final Thoughts

This shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce is proof that simple ingredients can create a meal that feels both comforting and elegant. With juicy shrimp, a rich tomato base, and just a hint of cream, it’s a versatile recipe that works for weeknights or special occasions. Serve it with a crisp salad and garlic bread, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

Buon appetito!
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Shrimp Spaghetti Tomato Sauce FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking.

2. What can I substitute for brandy in the sauce?

White wine or chicken broth both work well if you don’t want to use brandy.

3. Can I make this without cream?

Absolutely. The sauce will be more tomato-forward, or you can use a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

4. How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook them for only 1–2 minutes per side, then remove from the pan until the sauce is ready. Add them back at the end to reheat gently.

5. What’s the best pasta shape for shrimp tomato sauce?

Spaghetti is classic, but linguine, fettuccine, or even penne all work beautifully.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the tomato sauce a day in advance, but cook the shrimp and pasta just before serving for best results.

7. What should I serve with shrimp spaghetti tomato sauce?

Garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.

Shrimp Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce (Easy Italian Recipe)

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need