Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe

Spice up your dinner with Shrimp Fra Diavolo, a classic Italian dish featuring tender shrimp in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. Perfect for pasta lovers, this recipe combines garlic, white wine, and fire-roasted tomatoes for a bold and flavorful meal. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknights or special occasions. Learn tips, variations, and serving ideas to make it your own!

Ingredients

Shrimp

• 1 lb. large uncooked shrimp (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 14.5 oz. can fire-roasted tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Prep the Shrimp

1. Thaw the shrimp completely if frozen. Pat them dry and remove the shell, tail, and veins if needed.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1 minute and 20 seconds per side. Transfer the shrimp to a clean plate and set aside. Note: The shrimp will continue to cook slightly as they rest and will finish cooking when added back to the sauce.

Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the butter and diced onion. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps caramelize the onions and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
2. Add the minced garlic and white wine to the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil and let it reduce by half, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chicken broth and tomato paste until combined. Add the fire-roasted tomatoes (with their juices), soy sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to concentrate. Stir occasionally.
5. Reduce the heat to low and return the shrimp to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Partially cover the skillet and let the shrimp warm through for about 45 seconds.

Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with pasta, roasted vegetables, garlic bread with cheese, or crusty bread.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, white wine, and spicy red pepper flakes creates a rich and vibrant sauce.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is ready in under 40 minutes.
• Versatile Pairings: Pair it with your favorite pasta, bread, or vegetables.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preference.

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Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Use a timer for precise cooking.
• Caramelize the Onions: Take your time cooking the onions to achieve a sweet and rich flavor base.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer a little longer.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality tomatoes will elevate the flavors.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute shrimp with scallops, chicken, or even tofu.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the shrimp with roasted vegetables and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Add Veggies: Include spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What kind of wine should I use? Dry white wines like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay work best.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? The sauce can be made in advance and reheated. Add the shrimp just before serving to avoid overcooking.

How spicy is this dish? The level of spice can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes and hot sauce.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve Over: Spaghetti, linguine, or creamy polenta.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic knots.
• Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.