Chipotle Shrimp Spaghetti – A Creamy, Smoky Delight

Préparation

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a creamy, smoky pasta dish that is full of flavour.

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. Reserve a small cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
2. Prepare the chipotle sauce: In a blender, combine the double cream, cream cheese, and chipotle peppers in adobo. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and homogeneous. Taste the sauce and adjust the amount of chipotle if you prefer more or less heat.
3. Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over a medium-high heat. Add the peeled and cleaned shrimp and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
4. Bring it all together: In the same skillet, pour in the blended chipotle sauce. Cook over a medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to gently simmer. Add the melting cheese of your choice and stir continuously until it has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine and finish: Add the cooked spaghetti and the reserved shrimp to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are well coated in the sauce. Cook for a further 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water or a little milk to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the chipotle shrimp spaghetti hot. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional cheese on top or garnish with fresh chopped coriander (cilantro) for a burst of colour and freshness.

Chef’s Tips and Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few suggestions to customise it to your taste.

The chipotle peppers are the key to this dish’s smoky flavour, but they also bring the heat. Start with 2 peppers if you are sensitive to spice, and add more if you like things fiery. You can also add a little of the adobo sauce from the can for extra smokiness without too much additional heat.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute the double cream with single cream or evaporated milk. Adding a splash of milk or chicken stock can also help to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. Remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as lighter creams may not carry the flavours as robustly.

While mozzarella and Manchego are excellent options for their melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Oaxaca cheese, or a mild cheddar. For a more intense flavour, try adding a handful of Parmesan or Grana Padano at the end.

To add some colour and texture, consider including sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Simply cook them along with the shrimp or add them to the sauce before combining with the pasta.

Storage and Reheating

This chipotle shrimp spaghetti is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over a low heat, adding a splash of milk or stock to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can cause the shrimp to become tough and the sauce to separate.