When it comes to pasta dishes that combine comfort, flavor, and a touch of luxury, few recipes hit the sweet spot like Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine. This fiery twist on a timeless Italian-American classic brings together juicy shrimp, a garlicky butter-and-wine sauce, and a bold kick of chili heat—all wrapped around silky linguine. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, a date-night indulgence, or a dish to impress at a family gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes.
In this article, you’ll discover not just the recipe itself but also its origins, variations, and expert tips to help you cook restaurant-quality shrimp scampi at home.
What is Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine?
At its core, shrimp scampi with linguine is a dish where succulent shrimp are quickly sautéed in butter, garlic, and white wine, then tossed with pasta. Adding a spicy twist means elevating this traditional preparation with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or sambal oelek to bring fiery depth. The result? A bold, mouthwatering plate that balances buttery richness, citrus brightness, and satisfying heat.
Unlike heavy cream-based seafood pastas, spicy shrimp scampi is light yet decadent, allowing each flavor to shine without overpowering the natural sweetness of shrimp.
The Origin of Shrimp Scampi
The word “scampi” originally referred to a type of small lobster, also known as langoustines, commonly enjoyed in Italy. When Italian immigrants arrived in America, they swapped the scarce langoustine for shrimp, a more readily available seafood, but kept the garlicky butter preparation.
Over time, shrimp scampi with linguine became a beloved Italian-American staple, appearing on restaurant menus across the U.S. Its adaptability made it even more popular—cooks could make it mild, spicy, creamy, or even tomato-based depending on preference.
The spicy version we’re making today is an evolution that caters to modern palates that crave bold flavors while respecting the traditional base of garlic, butter, wine, and seafood.
Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s break down the essential ingredients and why they matter. For 4 servings, here’s exactly what you’ll need:
Pasta & Shrimp
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400 g linguine – Traditional long pasta that absorbs sauce beautifully.
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1 tbsp kosher salt – For seasoning the pasta water.
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500 g large shrimp, peeled & deveined – Fresh or frozen shrimp work; just ensure they’re deveined.
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Salt & black pepper to taste – Simple but necessary seasoning.
Sauce Base
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3 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness and depth.
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3 tbsp unsalted butter – Classic scampi indulgence.
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4 garlic cloves, minced – Essential aromatic backbone.
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2 shallots, finely diced – Sweet, delicate onion flavor.
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½ tsp red pepper flakes – For heat; adjust to taste.
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional) – Adds smokiness and depth.
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½ cup dry white wine – Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or any crisp white wine.
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Juice of 1 lemon – Fresh acidity to brighten the dish.
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Zest of ½ lemon – Extra citrus punch.
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¼ cup chopped fresh parsley – For freshness and garnish.
Optional Heat Boost
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1 tsp sambal oelek or chili garlic sauce – For those who love extra fire.
Step-by-Step Directions for Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
Cooking spicy shrimp scampi with linguine doesn’t require advanced culinary skills, but timing is everything. Here’s a foolproof method:
1. Cook the Linguine
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Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
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Add 1 tbsp kosher salt—this ensures the pasta itself is flavorful.
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Cook 400 g linguine until al dente, usually 8–10 minutes.
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Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later. This starchy liquid helps emulsify the sauce.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
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Heat 3 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add shallots and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden (about 2 minutes).
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Stir in red pepper flakes and paprika, releasing their smoky aroma.
3. Cook the Shrimp
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Pat shrimp dry, season with salt and pepper.
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Add to the skillet in a single layer.
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Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side.
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Remove shrimp and set aside to avoid overcooking.
4. Build the Sauce
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Deglaze the skillet with ½ cup white wine and the juice of 1 lemon. Scrape up browned bits for flavor.
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Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
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Add remaining 2 tbsp butter, optional sambal oelek, and a splash of pasta water. Stir until glossy.
5. Combine & Serve
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Return shrimp to the skillet.
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Add linguine and toss to coat evenly in sauce.
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Finish with lemon zest and chopped parsley.
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Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side.
Variations of Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
The beauty of shrimp scampi with linguine lies in its adaptability. Here are variations you can try:
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Creamy Scampi – Add ½ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, velvety finish.
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Tomato-Based Scampi – Stir in ½ cup crushed tomatoes for a tangy twist.
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Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free linguine or zucchini noodles.
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Extra-Spicy Kick – Double the red pepper flakes or use Calabrian chili paste.
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Herb-Forward – Add basil, thyme, or chives for layers of freshness.
FAQs About Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water before cooking.
2. What wine works best for shrimp scampi?
Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Albariño are perfect. Avoid overly sweet wines.
3. How can I make it less spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and sambal oelek.
4. Can I prepare shrimp scampi ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the shrimp and aromatics in advance. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
5. What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides.
Conclusion
Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is more than just a seafood pasta—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and the joy of cooking at home. The combination of garlic, butter, white wine, and chili heat creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or experiment with variations like creamy, tomato-based, or ultra-spicy scampi, this recipe will never fail to impress.
The next time you crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare, remember that Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is your go-to choice. Light a candle, pour a glass of chilled white wine, and let this fiery pasta dish bring warmth and flavor to your table.
Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe – A Bold Seafood Classic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
At its core, shrimp scampi with linguine is a dish where succulent shrimp are quickly sautéed in butter, garlic, and white wine, then tossed with pasta. Adding a spicy twist means elevating this traditional preparation with red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or sambal oelek to bring fiery depth. The result? A bold, mouthwatering plate that balances buttery richness, citrus brightness, and satisfying heat.
Ingredients
Pasta & Shrimp:
- 400 g linguine
- 1 tbsp kosher salt (for pasta water)
- 500 g large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Sauce Base:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 shallots, finely diced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)
- ½ cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Optional Heat Boost:
- 1 tsp sambal oelek or chili garlic sauce (for extra fire)
Instructions
1. Cook the Linguine
Boil salted water and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add shallots and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes and paprika.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Add to skillet and cook until pink and opaque (2–3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
4. Build the Sauce
Deglaze pan with white wine and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes. Add remaining butter, sambal oelek (if using), and reserved pasta water. Stir until glossy.
5. Combine & Serve
Return shrimp to pan. Add cooked linguine and toss to coat. Finish with lemon zest and parsley.
Notes
For extra flavor, finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a drizzle of good olive oil, or an extra pinch of red pepper flakes. Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
Keywords: Fiery Shrimp Scampi Pasta, Spicy Garlic Shrimp Linguine, Hot Shrimp Scampi Recipe
