Tex-Mex Shrimp Rigatoni Extravaganza

Tex-Mex Shrimp Rigatoni Extravaganza

Description:
Tex-Mex Shrimp Rigatoni Extravaganza is a delightful fusion of Italian and Tex-Mex cuisines. This dish combines succulent shrimp, hearty rigatoni pasta, and a vibrant blend of spices and vegetables, creating an explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The creamy, spicy sauce binds all the elements together, making this a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and well combined.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice, if using.
9. Serve the Tex-Mex Shrimp Rigatoni Extravaganza hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

This Tex-Mex Shrimp Rigatoni Extravaganza is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The bold flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!