Shrimp and Pasta Stew is a comforting, hearty dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender pasta, all simmered in a flavorful, savory broth. The stew is typically made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs like basil and oregano, creating a rich, aromatic base. The shrimp infuse the broth with their natural sweetness, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors, making it the perfect one-pot meal for a cozy dinner.
I first made Shrimp and Pasta Stew when I was craving something warming yet light. The combination of shrimp and pasta in a savory broth felt like the perfect balance. The sweetness of the shrimp pairs so well with the rich, herb-infused broth, while the pasta adds a comforting, filling element. It’s an easy dish to prepare and perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.
What I love most about this stew is how flexible it is. You can use different types of pasta, such as orzo or fusilli, and even add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and texture. A dash of red pepper flakes can give it a little kick, and a squeeze of lemon brightens the entire dish. Whether served as a light dinner or a hearty lunch, Shrimp and Pasta Stew is a delicious, satisfying meal that brings a touch of comfort to any occasion.
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Seafood lovers
- Cozy nights in
- Special occasions
- Comfort food enthusiasts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Shrimp and Pasta Stew will become your new go-to meal:
- Flavorful and Savory: The combination of shrimp, pasta, and a flavorful broth creates a delicious and well-rounded dish.
- Hearty and Filling: The pasta adds substance, while the shrimp provides a delicate seafood flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This stew comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Loaded with Fresh Ingredients: Tomatoes, garlic, and herbs make this stew light yet full of taste.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: A balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors ensures every bite is delicious.
- Customizable: You can adjust the amount of spice or add more vegetables to suit your taste.
- One-Pot Meal: The stew is easy to prepare and clean up afterward, all in one pot.
- Low-Calorie Option: Made with fresh ingredients, this stew is a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
- Impress Your Guests: It’s a dish that looks and tastes impressive, ideal for hosting dinner parties.
- Great Leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (small shapes like shells or elbows work best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient Highlights
- Shrimp: Provides a rich, sweet flavor that complements the broth perfectly.
- Diced Tomatoes: The base of the stew, offering tang and body to the dish.
- Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes bring complexity and warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Stew:
- Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Season the Stew: Add basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the stew and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Cooked Pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Shrimp and Pasta Stew:
- As a Main Course: Serve as a standalone dish for a complete meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh, light salad to balance the richness of the stew.
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- For a Casual Dinner Party: Perfect for serving at a casual gathering or seafood-themed dinner party.
- With Garlic Bread: The buttery crunch of garlic bread complements the soup-like texture of the stew.
- For Lunch: Reheat leftovers the next day for a quick and delicious lunch.
- Topped with Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top for added richness.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy, well-rounded meal.
- For a Romantic Dinner: Serve it with a glass of chilled white wine for a cozy, romantic meal.
- As a Family Dinner: A simple yet satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture of the stew. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Season the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or Old Bay seasoning before adding them to the stew for an extra burst of flavor.
- Sauté the Garlic: Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant before adding the liquids. This will release its natural sweetness and elevate the taste of your stew.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni, as they hold up better in stews and absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish your stew with fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme for a burst of freshness and color.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to make the stew heartier and more colorful.
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: Simmer the stew gently rather than boiling it to avoid overcooking the shrimp and pasta, ensuring a tender and flavorful dish.
- Use a Flavorful Broth: A rich seafood or chicken broth will infuse the stew with deep flavors. You can also make your own broth for an added layer of taste.
- Adjust Consistency: If the stew is too thick, add more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair the stew with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Shrimp and Pasta Stew: Increase the red pepper flakes and add a diced jalapeño for a fiery kick.
- Coconut Milk Version: Replace the broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist.
- Vegetarian Stew: Omit the shrimp and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and eggplant for a vegetarian version.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the stew for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream for a creamy texture.
- Tomato-Based Seafood Stew: Add clams, mussels, or other seafood to create a mixed seafood stew.
Special Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking and simmering the stew.
- Strainer or Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the stew and ensuring even cooking.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping vegetables and shrimp.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning and ingredient measurements.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen shrimp will work, but be sure to thaw them before adding them to the stew. - How long does this stew last in the fridge?
The stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, you can freeze the stew without the pasta for up to 1 month. Add fresh pasta when reheating. - What type of pasta works best?
Small shapes like shells, elbows, or penne are ideal for this stew. - Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors develop even more when it sits for a while, so it’s a great make-ahead dish. - Can I add other seafood to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add scallops, mussels, or clams to make a mixed seafood stew. - What can I use instead of shrimp?
You can substitute shrimp with chicken breast or fish fillets. - Is this stew gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make it a gluten-free dish. - How can I make the broth richer?
Add a splash of cream or a tablespoon of butter to enrich the broth.
Conclusion
This Shrimp and Pasta Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based broth. The stew is packed with fresh vegetables like onions, garlic, and bell peppers, creating a savory base for the shrimp and pasta to simmer in. With a touch of herbs and a little spice, it’s a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
The magic of this recipe lies in the depth of flavor created by simmering the shrimp and pasta in the rich broth. The shrimp infuses the broth with its natural sweetness, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a bit of heat, while fresh herbs like basil or parsley brighten the dish, balancing the rich, savory notes.
I’d love to see your Shrimp and Pasta Stew creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your flavorful, comforting stews. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any fun twists or toppings that made your stew uniquely yours!