Name: Calabrian Steak and Shrimp Bucatini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz bucatini pasta; 10 oz steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced; 10 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2–3 tbsp Calabrian chili paste or oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp); Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or basil (optional), for garnish

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Introduction

This Calabrian Steak and Shrimp Bucatini is a flavorful Italian-American dish that combines tender steak, succulent shrimp, and spicy Calabrian chili paste. It’s a perfect meal for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their pasta and want something impressive yet easy to make at home.

A white bowl filled with yellow spaghetti pasta topped with dark brown grilled steak slices and pink shrimp, sprinkled with small red chili pieces and green herbs. The noodles are glossy and slightly twisted, sitting beneath the meat and seafood which are arranged evenly on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz bucatini pasta
10 oz sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced
10 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2–3 tbsp Calabrian chili paste or oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the bucatini pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
Step 4: Stir in the Calabrian chili paste or oil along with the lemon juice. Cook for another minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Return the seared steak to the skillet with the shrimp. Add the cooked bucatini and toss everything together to combine well.
Step 6: Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a glossy sauce that coats the pasta. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer less heat, start with 1 tablespoon of Calabrian chili oil and adjust to your taste.
Using a high-quality Calabrian chili paste will enhance the flavor significantly.
This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh arugula salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. For best texture, avoid microwaving as it can overcook the shrimp and steak.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with spaghetti noodles mixed with grilled shrimp and pieces of steak, garnished with red chili flakes and small green herbs scattered on top. The pasta is light yellow and looks glossy, the shrimp are pink and slightly charred, and the steak pieces are dark brown with a juicy texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and warm lighting highlights the rich colors of the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while bucatini works best because of its shape and texture, you can substitute with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine if needed.

How spicy is Calabrian chili paste?

Calabrian chili paste has a moderate heat level with smoky and fruity undertones. You can adjust the amount used to suit your spice tolerance.