Shrimp Fajita Pasta Skillet

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the best of Tex-Mex and Italian cuisines, the Shrimp Fajita Pasta Skillet is here to wow your taste buds. This one-pan wonder blends succulent shrimp, colorful bell peppers, and a perfectly seasoned sauce all tossed with tender fettuccine or linguine pasta. It’s a meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party showstopper.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Shrimp Fajita Pasta Skillet deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation because of its incredible balance of textures and bold flavors. The shrimp are juicy and tender, the peppers add a fresh crunch, and the spices bring a smoky warmth that elevates the entire dish. Plus, it’s a skillet meal, meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your food. Whether you’re craving something comforting or want to impress guests without a fuss, this recipe hits all the marks. It’s also versatile enough to pair beautifully with other seafood dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta for a luxurious seafood feast.

Your Shopping Guide

• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta – Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up all the flavors.
• 1 lb large shrimp – Peeled and deveined; fresh or frozen works fine.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the shrimp and vegetables.
• 1 red bell pepper – Sliced thin for that sweet crunch.
• 1 green bell pepper – Adds a slightly earthy contrast.
• 1 onion – Sliced thin to caramelize lightly.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced fresh garlic is essential for depth.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder – For that smoky heat.
• 1 teaspoon cumin – Earthy and warm, it enhances the fajita flavors.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a mild sweetness and color.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, balancing the spices.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the sauce light but flavorful.
• 1 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar or a Mexican blend melts beautifully.
• Fresh cilantro – For garnish and a fresh herbal note.

Tools of the Trade

• Large skillet – Ideally non-stick or cast iron, perfect for sautéing and simmering.
• Large pot – To boil the pasta.
• Cutting board and sharp knife – For slicing peppers, onions, and prepping garlic.
• Colander – To drain the cooked pasta.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring and combining ingredients.
• Measuring spoons and cup – For precise seasoning and broth measurements.

The Method for Shrimp Fajita Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, half the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sprinkle with the remaining chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables and broth. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Add Shrimp and Garnish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to warm through. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro for color and brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tailor It to Your Diet

• Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese completely and add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
• Swap pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Adjust spice level: Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat, or reduce for mild palates.
• Vegetarian twist: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu cubes for a hearty, meat-free version.

If You’re Curious

This dish is inspired by the classic fajita flavors you love but reimagined with pasta for a comforting, hearty meal. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika brings a warm, smoky aroma that perfectly complements the sweetness of the bell peppers and the tender shrimp. Using chicken broth instead of cream keeps the sauce lighter but still flavorful, making it a balanced choice that won’t weigh you down.

• The choice of cheese is flexible; cheddar offers sharpness while a Mexican blend brings melty richness and a touch of spice.
• Fresh cilantro adds a pop of herbal brightness, which you can swap with parsley if preferred.
• For a fusion twist, try pairing this skillet with a side of Mexican street corn salad or your favorite salsa.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can make the Shrimp Fajita Pasta Skillet ahead of time by prepping the vegetables and seasoning the shrimp in advance. Store the prepped veggies and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook the pasta fresh to avoid mushiness.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. This dish does not freeze well due to the pasta texture, so fresh is best when enjoying this delicious skillet.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of seasoning if chicken broth is unavailable. The broth adds depth, so try to choose a flavorful liquid.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level is moderate thanks to the chili powder and paprika. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder or including a dash of cayenne pepper.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace shrimp with firm tofu or tempeh, use vegetable broth, and swap cheese for a vegan alternative to create a plant-based version of this skillet.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• For another seafood pasta delight, try the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Tortellini – packed with creamy, spicy flavor.
• Looking for something with a buttery garlic sauce? The Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a perfect quick fix.
• Throw together a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette to balance the richness of the skillet.
• Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and let’s dive into making this vibrant, comforting Shrimp Fajita Pasta Skillet. It’s a recipe that delivers big on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the colorful mix of fajita spices, tender shrimp, and cheesy pasta all in one skillet — dinner doesn’t get much better than this!

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