After a long week of repetitive meals and takeout that just didn’t hit the spot, I found myself craving something vibrant and full of flavor. That’s when I decided to whip up Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti—a dish that brings the zest of the coast straight to your kitchen. The moment the sweet aroma of sautéing onions mingles with garlic and a hint of cayenne, I can almost hear the waves crashing.

This recipe is not just your average pasta dish; it’s a celebration of freshness and simplicity. With juicy shrimp nestled in a robust tomato sauce, every bite bursts with flavor, making it an irresistible option for family dinners or cozy nights in. Plus, it comes together in a breeze, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more around the table with loved ones.

If you ever thought homemade meals had to be complicated, think again! Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that’s sure to elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your taste buds.

Why is Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti so special?

Flavor Explosion: This dish combines juicy shrimp and rich tomato sauce for a deliciously balanced meal.

Quick & Easy: You can whip up this recipe in no time, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at any gathering, and watch your friends and family rave about it!

Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from shrimp and veggies, it’s a wholesome dinner you can feel good about.

Versatile: Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to round out your meal!

If you’re looking for more easy dinner ideas, check out our quick weeknight recipes.

Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti Ingredients

Get ready to savor the flavors with these delightful ingredients!

For the Sauce

Canola oil – This oil has a high smoke point, making it perfect for sautéing without burning.
Yellow onions – Finely diced, they create a sweet and savory base for the dish.
Kosher salt – Enhances the flavors while cooking down the onions.
Garlic clove – Minced for that aromatic touch that adds depth to the sauce.
Celery – Adds a subtle crunch and freshness to balance the richer ingredients.
Green bell pepper – Finely diced, it introduces a lovely color and flavor.
Canned tomato sauce – The star of the dish, providing a rich, tangy base that’s essential for Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti.
Sugar – Just a touch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes for a smoother taste.
Small or medium shrimp – Peeled and deveined, they soak up the flavors beautifully.
Cracked black pepper – Freshly cracked for a hit of spice and warmth.
Cayenne pepper – A pinch adds a delightful kick to the dish!
Hot sauce (Original Louisiana Hot Sauce) – For those who love an extra layer of heat.

For the Pasta

Spaghetti – Cooked al dente, this pasta brings it all together perfectly.

For Garnishing

Fresh flat-leaf parsley – Finely chopped, it adds a fresh, vibrant finish to your dish.
Green onion – Chopped for an added pop of flavor and color on top.
Grated Parmesan cheese – This cheesy goodness elevates your dish to new heights!

Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the cooking portion and create this delightful feast together!

How to Make Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti

Heat the Oil: Warm the canola oil in a large pot over medium heat. This helps to create the perfect base for your sauce with a smooth finish.
Sauté the Onions: Add the finely diced yellow onions and kosher salt. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Their sweetness will add a delightful flavor.
Add Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, bringing a medley of fresh aromas to your kitchen.
Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the canned tomato sauce and sprinkle in the sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Shrimp: Stir in the shrimp, cracked black pepper, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce. Cook until the shrimp are just pink and cooked through, around 3-5 minutes. They should be succulent and flavorful!
Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked spaghetti in the sauce until it’s well combined, ensuring every strand is coated in that delicious mixture. This should only take a minute or two.
Serve & Garnish: Dish out your Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti onto plates, garnishing with fresh parsley, chopped green onion, and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. It’s all about making it look as good as it tastes!

Optional: Serve with a slice of lemon for those who enjoy a zesty twist!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave for a quick meal.

Freezer: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers, for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain texture.

Reheating: Heat thoroughly in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if needed to prevent drying out. Enjoy your flavorful Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti!

Helpful Tricks for Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti

Choose Fresh Shrimp: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp is fine, but ensure it’s well-thawed and drained before cooking.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Watch the timing closely! Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overcooked. Aim for a light pink color to signal they’re done.
Balance the Sauce: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning and sugar to balance the acidity of the canned tomato sauce for the best flavor in your Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti.
Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Cook spaghetti until just al dente; it’ll finish cooking when tossed with the hot sauce, absorbing flavors without becoming mushy.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the garnish! Fresh parsley, green onions, and Parmesan add not only flavor but also a beautiful presentation to your dish.

Make Ahead Options

Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to savor its deliciousness on even the busiest nights! You can chop the vegetables (onions, celery, and bell pepper) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (steps 1-5) ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, just be sure to cool it completely before storing to avoid condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply warm the sauce on the stove, cook the spaghetti, and toss everything together, ensuring every bite is just as delightful as when freshly made!

Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dish truly your own!

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat that ignites your taste buds.
Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh basil or oregano towards the end for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish with garden-fresh flavors.
Lo-Cal Option: Substitute the spaghetti with zucchini noodles for a healthier, low-carb alternative, retaining the delightful flavors without the carbs.
Creamy Delight: Mix in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a richer, creamier version that adds a comforting touch.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in additional veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to boost nutrition while adding vibrant colors and textures.
Lemon Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens up the dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors and offering a refreshing finish.
Seafood Variety: Replace shrimp with a mix of seafood—like scallops or crab—for a luxurious seafood experience that feels like a special treat!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to ensure everyone can enjoy this dish, maintaining all the delicious flavors without compromise.

What to Serve with Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti?

A delightful meal is just a few dishes away, creating a dining experience that feels both special and satisfying.

Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up the rich tomato sauce. Its crispy edges combine beautifully with the pasta’s tender texture.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty shrimp spaghetti.
Roasted Asparagus: A touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper roasts asparagus to tender perfection, adding a bright and savory element to your table.
Lemon Wedges: Offering a zesty squeeze of citrus elevates the dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp and tomatoes.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine complements the flavors of the shrimp, bringing a crisp balance and enhancing the overall dining experience.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy coffee-flavored dessert. Its rich texture contrasts nicely with the bold flavors of the pasta, wrapping up your dinner perfectly.

Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose shrimp for Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, select fresh shrimp that smells mild and sweet, not fishy. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed properly and look firm and translucent with no dark spots. Medium to small shrimp work best as they cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully.

How should I store leftover Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if needed to keep it moist.

Can I freeze Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze it! Divide the spaghetti into portions and place them in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then warm it up on the stove, adding a bit of water or tomato sauce to keep it from drying out.

What should I do if my shrimp are overcooked?
If you’ve accidentally overcooked your shrimp and they are rubbery, there’s not much you can do to salvage them. However, for future reference, keep an eye on them during the cooking process. They should only take about 3-5 minutes in the hot sauce until just cooked through. Perfectly cooked shrimp will be tender and have a light pink color.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Very! Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti contains seafood, so it’s not suitable for those with shellfish allergies. While it’s generally a gluten-containing dish due to the pasta, you can substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.

How can I enhance or tweak the flavor profiles in Lucien’s Shrimp Spaghetti?
If you’re looking to spice things up, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables but before adding the tomato sauce. Allow it to cook off for a minute or two, and then proceed with the recipe. You can also customize the heat level by adjusting the cayenne pepper and hot sauce amounts based on your personal preference!