Shrimp Linguine with Creamy Tomato White Wine Sauce

Indulge in the flavors of a restaurant-quality dish with this Shrimp Linguine featuring a luscious Creamy Tomato White Wine Sauce. Tender wild-caught shrimp are quickly sautéed in butter, then paired with a delightful sauce made from garlic, Calabrian chili, dry white wine, and diced tomatoes. The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese brings a creamy richness that coats every strand of linguine perfectly.

Finished with a sprinkling of fresh parsley, this dish is both elegant and comforting, making it ideal for any occasion from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Enjoy the harmonious blend of seafood, pasta, and creamy sauce that will leave everyone at the table craving more.

Shrimp Linguine with Creamy Tomato White Wine Sauce

Ingredients:

kosher salt + fresh cracked black pepper

1½ pounds wild caught shrimp, peeled, deveined + patted dry

2 tablespoon unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 Calabrian chili, minced, or more to taste (sub with 1/2 tsp of Calabrian chili paste or red pepper flakes)

¾ cup dry white wine, like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio

1 can petite diced tomatoes, do not drain (14.5 oz can)

16 ounce linguine pasta

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated, plus more for serving

¼ cup Italian parsley, minced

Instructions:

Set a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring to a boil.

Season the shrimp with kosher salt + black pepper.

While you wait for the water to boil, melt butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-1/2 to 2 minutes per side (depending on their size). Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the shrimp in two batches if needed. Remove to a plate.

Leave the pan on medium heat.

Add the garlic and calabrian chili to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the wine and entire can of tomatoes (with liquid) to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then cook for 5 minutes.

While the wine reduces, add pasta to the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes, or al dente.

Return your attention to the skillet. After the wine & tomatoes have reduced down for 5 minutes, whisk in the heavy cream; then the parmesan. Season with black pepper. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes to thicken the sauce. Taste and season as needed. Return the shrimp to the pan.

Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Add the pasta directly to the sauce along with the parsley; toss to coat. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce as needed.

Notes:

Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Ensure they are peeled, deveined, and patted dry before cooking.

Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be mindful not to overcook them. They should turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the heat as soon as they are cooked through to avoid toughness.

Adjust Spice Level: The Calabrian chili adds heat. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference. Alternatively, use Calabrian chili paste or red pepper flakes for convenience.

Balance the Sauce: After adding the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allow the sauce to simmer gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.

Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve some of the cooking water. This starchy water helps to thin the sauce and bind it to the pasta, enhancing the overall dish.

Finish with Fresh Herbs: Adding minced Italian parsley at the end adds freshness and brightens the flavors of the dish. It’s best to add herbs just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and flavor.

Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe uses relatively few ingredients, using good quality ingredients like freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a flavorful dry white wine will greatly impact the final taste.

Serve Immediately: Shrimp and pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh. Serve the linguine immediately after tossing it in the sauce to preserve the textures and flavors.

Garnish with Extra Cheese: Before serving, offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table so diners can add more to their liking. This enhances the cheesy richness of the dish.

Pairing Suggestions: Serve this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables to complement the creamy and savory flavors of the linguine.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp.

Thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

Can I substitute the white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth.

The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How spicy is the dish with the Calabrian chili?

The spice level can vary based on personal preference and the amount of Calabrian chili used.

Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use different pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.

Adjust cooking times according to the pasta’s package instructions.

Do I need to use both heavy cream and Parmesan cheese?

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce.

You can adjust the amounts to your preference, but both ingredients contribute to the dish’s flavor and texture.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

Shrimp cook quickly; they should turn pink and opaque.

Avoid overcooking to prevent them from becoming tough.

What should I do if the sauce becomes too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, you can thin it out with reserved pasta water or a bit of additional cream or broth.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare components like cooking the shrimp and making the sauce ahead.

Cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve the Shrimp Linguine with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.