Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together quickly, this Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine is your new go-to. Imagine perfectly cooked linguine tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, accented by a kick of red pepper flakes and fresh lemon juice, then topped with juicy, succulent shrimp. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in less than 30 minutes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe hits all the right notes with its balance of heat, zest, and richness.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The magic behind this dish lies in its simplicity and bold flavors. The combination of butter and garlic creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of linguine. Adding red pepper flakes provides just the right amount of heat, without overpowering the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Plus, the brightness from fresh lemon juice and parsley lifts the entire dish, making it feel fresh and vibrant.

Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with pasta, so this recipe is a lifesaver when you want something impressive but easy. It’s also flexible — you can swap the linguine for other pasta shapes or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Many cooks appreciate how the sauce is made in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

If you’re a fan of seafood pasta dishes, you might also enjoy the Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil Linguine or the Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne for more delicious inspiration.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 oz linguine pasta – the perfect base for this saucy dish
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – the star protein
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter – for richness and flavor
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic backbone
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – adds a gentle heat
• 1/4 cup chicken broth – keeps the sauce light and flavorful
• 2 tbsp lemon juice – brightens and balances the dish
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – for freshness and color
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving – optional, but highly recommended

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large pot – for boiling linguine pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook shrimp and sauce
• Colander – for draining pasta
• Garlic press or sharp knife – to mince garlic
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise ingredients
• Tongs or pasta fork – to toss pasta and shrimp together
• Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese

Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring frequently. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, along with the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce

Return the shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked linguine. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce seems too thick. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. For an extra kick, add an additional pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

If you’re in the mood for a spicier seafood pasta, try the Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti for a fiery alternative.

Smart Substitutions

• Pasta: Swap linguine for fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta if preferred.
• Shrimp: Use peeled scallops or chunks of firm white fish for a different protein option.
• Butter: Substitute with olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free version.
• Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
• Parmesan cheese: Nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative works well if avoiding dairy.
• Red pepper flakes: Adjust or omit based on your spice tolerance.

What I Learned Testing

Testing this recipe multiple times revealed a few key tips that make all the difference:

• Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook very quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
• Reserving pasta water is crucial for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the linguine.
• Freshly minced garlic is essential; pre-minced garlic or powders don’t give the same vibrant flavor.
• Balancing acidity with lemon juice brightens the rich butter sauce without overpowering it.
• Using fresh parsley at the end adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that lifts the whole dish.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This dish is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness and the pasta’s texture. However, if you want to make it ahead:

• Store cooked shrimp and pasta separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Freezing is not recommended as shrimp texture can become tough and pasta mushy when thawed.

Your Top Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which can affect how they sauté.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust the spice by reducing or increasing the amount or omitting it altogether.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese or skip the Parmesan altogether.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftover shrimp and linguine in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to keep the shrimp tender and pasta from drying out.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil Linguine – A fresh, garlicky pasta with roasted tomatoes and fragrant basil.
• Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne – A luscious, creamy pasta packed with bright lemon and tender shrimp.
• Spicy Arrabbiata Shrimp Spaghetti – For those who want a fiery twist on shrimp pasta with rich tomato sauce.

The Last Word

This Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The combination of garlic, butter, shrimp, and a touch of heat makes for an unbeatable flavor profile that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. It’s quick enough for busy nights, yet elegant enough for entertaining. Once you try it, you’ll likely find yourself turning to this recipe again and again whenever you want a satisfying seafood pasta fix.

Ready to dive in? Grab your ingredients and start cooking this delightful dish tonight!

Share on Pinterest