Craving something that’s packed with bold, fiery flavor and a touch of elegance? Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine is just what you need. This dish combines tender, succulent shrimp with a spicy, garlicky tomato sauce that’s just the right level of heat—perfectly balanced with al dente linguine. It’s rich, comforting, and a little bit sassy, thanks to the kick of red pepper flakes and crushed tomatoes. Whether you’re impressing guests at a dinner party or treating yourself to something special, this dish will definitely hit the spot. Get ready to dive into a pasta that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying!
Why You’ll Love Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine
1. A Flavor Explosion:
The spicy, garlicky sauce combines the perfect amount of heat with the savory flavors of shrimp and fresh tomatoes. You won’t be able to get enough of this robust, mouthwatering sauce.
2. Quick and Easy:
Despite its fancy name, this dish is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.
3. Perfect for Seafood Lovers:
If you love seafood, this dish is a must-try. The shrimp are juicy and tender, soaking up all the spicy sauce, while the linguine provides a nice base to carry all the flavors.
4. Customizable Heat:
Not a fan of too much spice? No problem! You can easily adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference, making it as mild or fiery as you like.
5. Impressive Yet Simple:
This dish looks and tastes impressive, making it perfect for date night, family dinners, or whenever you want to serve something that feels like a treat without all the hassle.

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Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious, spicy seafood pasta:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz linguine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make a restaurant-quality spicy shrimp pasta at home:
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the linguine according to the package instructions, until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits left from the shrimp. Let the wine cook down for about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine the Shrimp and Pasta
Return the shrimp to the skillet, along with any juices they released. Stir in the chopped basil and cook for an additional 2 minutes to reheat the shrimp and allow the flavors to combine. Add the cooked linguine to the pan, tossing everything together. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Final Touches
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of brightness. Give everything a final toss, and then taste for seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Enjoy the bold flavors and perfectly cooked shrimp with every bite!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 490
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 220mg
Sodium: 850mg
Total Carbohydrates: 49g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 35g
Vitamin A: 15% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 20% of the Daily Value
Calcium: 8% of the Daily Value
Iron: 15% of the Daily Value
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine
This dish is hearty on its own, but there are a few perfect pairings to elevate your meal:
1. Garlic Bread:
A crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes the perfect side to mop up any extra sauce. Who can resist the combo of garlic, butter, and pasta?
2. Green Salad:
Serve with a light, refreshing salad to balance out the heat of the dish. A simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette works beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables:
Pair it with roasted veggies like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli for an extra boost of color and nutrients.
4. White Wine:
A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the seafood and spiciness of the dish perfectly. A nice glass of wine will elevate the experience even more!
Additional Tips
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes, or use mild Italian sausage instead of shrimp.
- Make It Gluten-Free: You can swap out the linguine for a gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for more texture and flavor.
- Meal Prep: You can cook the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, then simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A1: Yes, frozen shrimp work just fine! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly run them under cold water.
Q2: What if I don’t have white wine?
A2: If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth is a great substitute. You could also use a splash of lemon juice for some acidity.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A3: You can prepare the sauce and shrimp ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh. Once you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and toss with the pasta.
Q4: Is this dish spicy?
A4: It has a kick! You can control the spice by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
Q5: Can I use another type of pasta?
A5: Yes! You can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other type of pasta you prefer. Just cook it according to package instructions.
Q6: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A6: To make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the shrimp with roasted vegetables or tofu for a satisfying alternative.
Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q8: Can I freeze this dish?
A8: It’s best to freeze the sauce and shrimp separately from the pasta. You can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months and then reheat it when ready to serve.
Q9: How do I reheat the pasta without it getting dry?
A9: Reheat the pasta in a skillet with a little reserved pasta water or a splash of broth to bring back moisture and keep it from drying out.
Q10: Can I make this dish milder for kids?
A10: Absolutely! Use fewer red pepper flakes or skip them entirely for a kid-friendly version of the dish.
Conclusion
Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine is a bold and flavorful dish that combines the heat of spicy tomato sauce with the sweetness of succulent shrimp. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to impress anyone who loves a bit of spice in their meals. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or indulging in a special dinner, this dish will elevate your meal with vibrant, zesty flavors. So, gather your ingredients, cook it up, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Linguine is a bold and vibrant dish that brings the heat! Succulent shrimp are simmered in a fiery, garlicky tomato sauce with a hint of wine, then served over linguine for the perfect Italian meal. It’s a deliciously spicy twist on a classic seafood pasta dish.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
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1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option)
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1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1/4 cup tomato paste
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1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/2 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Linguine:
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12 oz linguine pasta
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Salt for the pasta water
Instructions
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For the Shrimp:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
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Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
For the Sauce:
2. Make the Sauce:
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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 (be careful not to burn the garlic).
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Add the white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
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Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
For the Linguine:
3. Cook the Linguine:
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While the sauce simmers, cook the linguine in salted water according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente pasta.
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Drain the linguine, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Combine and Serve:
4. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
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Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce and stir to coat. Let the shrimp heat through for an additional 2 minutes.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
5. Toss Pasta:
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Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta is fully coated with the spicy sauce.
6. Serve:
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Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of fresh citrus.
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Notes
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Adjusting Spice Level: You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to make the dish as spicy or mild as you like. If you want it extra hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce.
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Non-Alcoholic Version: Use chicken broth instead of white wine for a non-alcoholic alternative that still has a rich, savory flavor.
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Add Veggies: You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 170mg