Pasta dishes are beloved worldwide for their versatility, comfort, and the endless ways they can be transformed. For those who crave an extra kick, spicy pasta recipes offer the perfect combination of warmth and flavor.
That being said, these 15 spicy pasta recipes will set your taste buds ablaze.
1. Arrabbiata Penne
Arrabbiata Penne is the classic Italian dish that takes the simple charm of penne pasta and elevates it with a fiery tomato sauce.
The blend of fresh garlic, ripe tomatoes, and a healthy dose of red chili flakes brings a kick that lingers just right. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a balance of spice and tang.
2. Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Fra Diavolo, Italian for “Brother Devil,” is a seafood lover’s dream with a devilish twist. Juicy shrimp are sautéed with crushed red pepper, garlic, and white wine, then simmered in a zesty tomato sauce.
Serve it over linguine or spaghetti for a luxurious, spicy feast that teases the taste buds with each bite.
3. Chipotle Chicken Alfredo
Take a twist on the creamy Alfredo by introducing smoky chipotle peppers to the mix. Tender chicken breast slices are bathed in a luscious chipotle-infused cream sauce, creating a harmonious blend of heat and richness.
The gentle spice paired with the familiar flavors of garlic and Parmesan makes this dish uniquely bold yet comforting.
4. Spicy Pesto Rigatoni
This isn’t your average pesto. By incorporating jalapeños or serrano peppers into the traditional basil pesto mix, Spicy Pesto Rigatoni adds a delightful kick. The herbaceous, nutty flavors of basil and pine nuts contrast beautifully with the peppery heat, making every bite vibrant and bold.
5. Szechuan Spicy Spaghetti
Inspired by the fiery flavors of Szechuan cuisine, this spaghetti dish brings an unexpected Asian twist. The sauce combines garlic, ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and soy sauce for a distinctive mouth-numbing spiciness.
Finished with a drizzle of sesame oil and chopped green onions, it’s perfect for those who crave a cross-cultural culinary adventure.
6. Cajun Spiced Linguine with Sausage
Linguine gets a Southern-style upgrade with slices of smoky sausage and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. This dish is spiced up with paprika, cayenne, and a hint of thyme, offering a robust depth of flavor. Creamy yet spicy, it’s a dish that celebrates the marriage of Italian and Cajun traditions.
7. Calabrian Chili Spaghetti
Calabrian chilis bring an authentic, fiery heat to this spaghetti dish that is unmistakably Italian. The chilis are blended with garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes for a sauce that’s both spicy and slightly sweet. This pasta is perfect for those who want a taste of southern Italy’s bold, sun-soaked flavors.
8. Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Take comfort food to the next level with Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese. This dish melds the creaminess of traditional mac and cheese with the tangy, spicy punch of buffalo sauce. Shredded chicken adds heartiness, while a blue cheese topping finishes it with a signature tang.
9. Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Garlic butter and shrimp are a match made in heaven, but with an extra kick of red chili flakes, it’s elevated to a new level.
Tossed with spaghetti or fettuccine, the spicy garlic butter sauce coats each strand, while the shrimp adds a juicy, oceanic element. It’s simple yet decadent, perfect for a special dinner with a hint of heat.
10. Harissa Tomato Penne
The North African touch of harissa paste adds a smoky, deep spice to a rich tomato sauce in this penne dish. Balanced with garlic and roasted cherry tomatoes, the harissa brings a complex heat that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Serve with a dollop of ricotta or crumbled feta for a creamy contrast.
11. Spicy Lemon and Chili Linguine
Simple, fresh, and fiery, this linguine dish takes inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine. The zesty lemon sauce pairs perfectly with the heat of red chili flakes and fresh parsley. A touch of garlic and high-quality olive oil ties it all together, resulting in a pasta that’s light, bright, and packed with spice.
12. Fire-Roasted Red Pepper Fettuccine
This fettuccine boasts a vibrant sauce made from fire-roasted red peppers, garlic, and a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra punch.
Blended to a smooth, velvety texture, the sauce hugs each ribbon of pasta, delivering a slightly sweet, smoky heat. Top with grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper for the perfect finishing touch.
13. Spicy Vodka Rigatoni
A trendy favorite, spicy vodka rigatoni takes the rich, creamy flavor of a classic vodka sauce and adds a spicy twist. Crushed red pepper flakes bring heat to the tomato and cream blend, while a splash of vodka enhances the overall depth of the sauce.
Finished with basil and a shower of Pecorino Romano, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails.
14. Thai Spicy Peanut Noodles
Bringing the flavors of Thai street food to your kitchen, this spicy peanut noodle dish features spaghetti or linguine tossed in a sauce of peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, and a splash of lime juice.
The result is a creamy, nutty, and fiery pasta that’s irresistible. Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
15. Spicy Roasted Garlic and Tomato Fusilli
Roasted garlic takes center stage in this fusilli recipe, paired with a rich, spicy tomato sauce. The slow-roasted garlic adds a sweet depth that balances out the fiery kick of red chili. Twists of fusilli ensure the sauce clings to every bite, offering a flavor-packed forkful each time.
Leave a comment