If you’re craving a dish that brings fiery flavor, tender seafood, and comforting pasta all in one, the Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. This mouthwatering Italian-American classic offers perfectly cooked shrimp enveloped in a bold, spicy tomato sauce that clings to every strand of linguine. It’s a symphony of texture and taste that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Get ready to dive into a dish that combines heat, herbaceousness, and a touch of tang all in one warm, satisfying plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to a standout Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe lies in its straightforward yet vibrant ingredients. Each one has a purpose: shrimp provides juicy seafood sweetness, garlic and red pepper flakes add punch, and the blend of tomatoes with herbs creates a luscious sauce full of depth. Let’s break down everything you’ll want to have ready before you get cooking.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor in your dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéeing shrimp perfectly with a lovely golden finish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning both shrimp and sauce to bring out their natural flavors.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Used again to gently cook garlic and release all those delicious aromas.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a vibrant, pungent layer that brightens the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: The key for that signature spicy kick—adjust easily depending on how fiery you like it.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option): Adds acidity and depth, helping to develop the sauce’s complex flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes: The rich tomato base that makes the sauce hearty and satisfying.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and round out the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings classic Mediterranean earthiness to the mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Offers subtle sweet notes that complement the oregano and tomato.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: For that essential seasoning finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds fresh color and a mild herbaceous contrast at the end.
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving): A quick squeeze brightens every bite with fresh citrus zing.
- 12 oz linguine pasta: The perfect pasta shape to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
- Salt for the pasta water: Vital for seasoning the pasta from the inside out.
How to Make Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Shrimp
Start by seasoning your shrimp with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Heat the first 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick sear locks in their juicy texture. Once cooked, set them aside so they don’t overcook while you work on the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
With the shrimp resting, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet and warm it over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic turns golden and releases an irresistible aroma. This step builds the sauce’s spicy, garlicky foundation—just be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan with Wine or Broth
Pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping up those lovely browned bits stuck to the bottom—these add fantastic flavor depth. Let the liquid simmer and reduce slightly for about 2 to 3 minutes. This step infuses the sauce with brightness and complexity, elevating your dish beyond the ordinary.
Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce
Now it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, and basil to the pan. Stir them together and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a rich, hearty consistency. This simmering melds all ingredients into one flavorful, spicy tomato sauce that hugs your shrimp and pasta perfectly.
Step 5: Cook the Linguine
While the sauce is simmering, boil a large pot of salted water and cook the linguine according to the package instructions, typically 8 to 10 minutes for al dente. The salted water seasons the pasta beautifully from within, and cooking it to al dente ensures it has just the right bite to balance the tender shrimp and thick sauce.
Step 6: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Drain your linguine, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce, stirring to coat each piece in that spicy goodness. Let everything heat through for another 2 minutes. If your sauce feels too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will loosen it just right without losing flavor.
Step 7: Toss Pasta with Sauce and Shrimp
Finally, add the linguine directly to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Use tongs to toss everything together thoroughly so each strand of pasta is drenched in the zesty, slightly spicy tomato sauce. This step ensures you get that perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Divide the pasta into hearty bowls, then sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbal note. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over for a bright, citrusy contrast that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp sauce.
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a mild, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Lemon wedges are essential to add a vibrant zing at the table. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to provide refreshing balance. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a killer choice for mopping up that luscious sauce and making the meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in large shallow bowls so the aromas can flourish and guests can see all the vibrant colors. For a restaurant-style touch, add a few whole shrimp on top and a final gratinée of Parmesan under the broiler for a golden crust. You could also try portions in individual ramekins for a fun dinner party presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftovers to room temperature quickly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp will still hold their texture, and the sauce’s flavor will deepen overnight, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
While the sauce freezes well, shrimp can become rubbery after freezing and reheating. If you want to freeze the dish, store the sauce separately from the linguine and shrimp. Freeze the sauce for up to 3 months in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating works too, but do so in short increments to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to prevent excess water in the skillet, which might hinder a good sear and flavor development in your Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe.
How spicy is this dish? Can I make it milder?
The red pepper flakes give this recipe a nice medium heat, but you’re always in control—reduce the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder yet still flavorful sauce.
What can I substitute for linguine?
Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne will work perfectly as alternatives. Just aim for pasta that holds sauce well to enjoy every bit of the spicy tomato mixture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the shrimp and consider adding roasted or sautéed mushrooms and zucchini to keep that rich texture and depth in the sauce, maintaining the spirit of the Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?
Definitely. Substitute the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth to keep all the flavors without the alcohol, and your sauce will taste just as rich and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly special about the Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe that makes each meal feel a little festive. It’s bold, comforting, and full of personality—everything a dinner should be. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this vibrant dish is sure to impress and delight. So grab your favorite bottle of wine, fire up the stove, and let this recipe bring a burst of Italian flair and heat to your dinner table soon!
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Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine is a vibrant Italian-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a fiery tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, red pepper flakes, and fragrant herbs. Paired with perfectly al dente linguine, this recipe delivers a balanced blend of heat and flavor, garnished with fresh parsley and bright lemon wedges for an irresistible meal perfect for seafood lovers craving a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fra Diavolo Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pasta and Garnishes
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- Salt for the pasta water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the liquid to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavor.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Cook the Linguine: While the sauce simmers, cook the linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce and stir to coat. Let them heat through for another 2 minutes.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your preferred sauce consistency.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss well to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the flavorful, spicy sauce.
- Serve: Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side to add a fresh citrus burst to each bite.
Notes
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level; you can reduce or increase the amount.
- Using white wine enhances the depth of flavor, but chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute.
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick, which also helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
- For an even more intense garlic flavor, you can add an extra clove of garlic or use roasted garlic.
- This dish pairs excellently with a crisp white wine or a light, citrusy sparkling water.
