Indulge in a delicious twist on a classic with this Shrimp Carbonara Recipe! Succulent shrimp and crispy bacon are tossed in a rich, creamy carbonara sauce, creating a perfect balance of savory flavors. This dish is a comforting and indulgent take on traditional pasta, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients For This Shrimp Carbonara Recipe
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Carbonara Sauce:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
For the Shrimp & Bacon:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions For This Shrimp Carbonara Recipe
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Carbonara Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), black pepper, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
4. Cook the Shrimp
Add olive oil and butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, then cook for about 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Combine Everything
Reduce the heat to low. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss with the bacon grease. Slowly pour in the carbonara sauce, stirring quickly to coat the pasta. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
6. Add Shrimp & Bacon
Toss in the cooked shrimp and crispy bacon, stirring gently to combine.
7. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy immediately!
Storage Tips For This Shrimp Carbonara Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water or cream to maintain the sauce’s texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce can separate upon thawing.
More Shrimp Recipes
If you love shrimp, check out our 50 Best Shrimp Recipes for more delicious ways to enjoy this versatile seafood!
Conclusion
This Shrimp Carbonara Recipe is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or impressing guests, this dish will surely be a hit. Give it a try, and let us know how you like it!
