Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe (Spicy Italian Seafood Pasta) | Quick High-Protein Dinner
When relatives suddenly come home in the evening, you, like me, must be in doubt about what special dish to make for them. At that moment, I remembered an amazing Italian seafood recipe, the Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe, which my grandmother taught me but is no longer in this world. This restaurant-style shrimp dinner that’s bursting with bold flavor and comes together in just 25 minutes.
This spicy Italian seafood pasta dish features juicy shrimp sauteed in a garlicky, chili-infused tomato sauce and served over a bed of linguine or low-carb zoodles. It’s fast, fiery, and absolutely irresistible. Not only that, but you can also serve this Shrimp Fra Diavolo recipe as a romantic date night dinner, or as a simple high-protein low-carb seafood recipe.
This easy shrimp recipe is not just keto-friendly (when served without pasta), but also budget-friendly, making it one of the best shrimp dinner recipes to cook at home. Also, it pairs beautifully with white wine and is a hit at dinner parties, making it both a healthy seafood recipe and a premium dining experience.
So, if you’re searching for spicy shrimp pasta recipes, quick Italian dinner ideas, or easy gourmet seafood meals, this Shrimp Fra Diavolo is the spicy crowd-pleaser you need. It’s perfect for meal prep, date nights, and even high-protein lunch boxes!
🍤 What Is Shrimp Fra Diavolo?
Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a bold and spicy Italian-American seafood dish made with succulent shrimp simmered in a spicy tomato-based sauce, often served over pasta like linguine or spaghetti. The name “Fra Diavolo” literally translates to “Brother Devil” in Italian — a nod to the fiery red pepper heat in the sauce.
This iconic dish is a favorite in both upscale restaurants and cozy home kitchens because it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and fits perfectly into modern diets like low-carb and high-protein meal plans.
Unlike traditional Italian seafood recipes, Fra Diavolo is a spicy twist created in the U.S., popularized in New York and Boston. It’s a shining example of Italian-American fusion cuisine — hearty, spicy, and designed to satisfy.
Fra Diavolo sauces are often made using high-quality ingredients such as:
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic and shallots
- Crushed tomatoes
- White wine or seafood broth
- Red chili flakes for heat
To learn more about the origin of Fra Diavolo and its cultural significance, check out this high-authority culinary resource from Chili Pepper Madness.
Classic Shrimp Fra Diavolo with linguine and fresh herbs
Related: Tomato & Rice Soup
❤️ About This Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
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🔥 Bold & Spicy Flavors
This dish is infused with crushed red pepper and garlic, creating that signature Fra Diavolo heat loved by fans of bold Italian cuisine.
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⏱️ Quick & Easy Dinner
Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight seafood dinner recipe for busy home cooks. No long prep or cleanup required!
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🥦 High-Protein & Low-Carb
With lean shrimp as the star, this recipe is perfect for those following a low carb seafood diet or high protein meal plan.
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🍝 Versatile Serving Options
Serve with pasta, zoodles, or cauliflower rice. It’s easily adaptable for gluten-free, keto, or paleo diets.
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💰 Great for Meal Prep & Budget-Friendly
Shrimp cooks quickly and is often on sale, making this a top choice for budget-conscious families and meal prep plans under $10. Combine it with pantry staples for a cost-effective meal.
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🌿 Restaurant-Quality at Home
Impress your guests with a homemade meal that looks and tastes like it’s straight from an upscale Italian bistro – without the cost!
Related: Cheap Pasta Dinners
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need for Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
Below are the high-quality ingredients for this spicy Italian seafood pasta recipe. Using fresh, premium items will enhance flavor and make your meal healthier and restaurant-worthy. Ideal for low-carb dinner plans, high-protein diets, and easy weeknight meals.
🦐 Shrimp (1 lb)
Use wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined. They’re rich in lean protein and omega-3s.
Seafood Watch offers tips on sustainable shrimp sourcing.
🧄 Garlic (5 cloves)
Fresh minced garlic adds pungent heat and is key to that bold, spicy flavor found in Italian-American recipes.
🌶️ Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp)
Use for that signature Fra Diavolo kick. Adjust to taste if you prefer a milder version.
🧅 Onion (1 small)
Finely chopped for sweetness and balance in the tomato-based sauce. Yellow or white onions work well.
🍅 Crushed Tomatoes (1 can – 14.5 oz)
Use organic crushed tomatoes for a rich, natural base. Look for BPA-free cans for health-conscious cooking.
🍷 Dry White Wine (1/4 cup)
Optional but enhances depth and aroma. Cooking wine for pasta dishes like Pinot Grigio works best.
🧂 Italian Seasoning (1/2 tsp)
A blend of oregano, thyme, and basil brings authentic Italian flavor. Try McCormick Italian Seasoning.
🧴 Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
Choose premium olive oil for cooking to boost heart-healthy fats and rich flavor. Cold-pressed is best.
🍝 Pasta of Choice (Optional – 1/2 lb)
Linguine or spaghetti pairs best. Use gluten-free pasta for low-carb or celiac-friendly meals.
🌿 Fresh Parsley or Basil
For garnish and added freshness. Use fresh herbs to elevate presentation and taste.
Want to make this dish even healthier? Swap out regular pasta for zucchini noodles or serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly seafood dinner.
Suggested: Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito Recipes
🍝 Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
Learn how to make this easy spicy shrimp pasta recipe with just a few fresh ingredients and under 30 minutes! This section is packed with expert techniques to cook restaurant-quality seafood at home — a favorite among lovers of high-protein low-carb meals and gourmet Italian dishes.
👨🍳 Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika for extra flavor. Sear for about 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
🍅 Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Tomato Sauce
In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Add finely chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic cloves and red pepper flakes (adjust for heat). Pour in crushed tomatoes and a splash of dry white wine for acidity and depth. Season with salt, pepper, a pinch of sugar, and Italian herbs.
🔥 Step 3: Simmer & Combine
Let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes to thicken and concentrate the spicy flavor. Return the seared shrimp to the pan and let it simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes. This locks in moisture and infuses the shrimp with the bold Diavolo flavor.
🍽️ Step 4: Serve & Garnish
Plate the shrimp over your choice of pasta, gluten-free linguine, zucchini noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb seafood dinner. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and drizzle with high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a restaurant-worthy finish.
🎥 Watch the Recipe in Action:
Related: White Bean Caprese Salad Recipe
🍽️ 7. Variations & Customizations of Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
🥑 Keto-Friendly Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Use sugar-free crushed tomatoes and cook in olive oil rich in healthy fats.
🌾 Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free pasta such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta to enjoy this spicy Italian seafood pasta without gluten.
🍷 Alcohol-Free Version
Replace the wine in the sauce with low sodium chicken broth or seafood stock for a family-friendly shrimp dinner.
💪 High Protein Upgrade
Add scallopsmussels, or chunks of grilled salmon to increase protein and make it a seafood medley fra diavolo.
🌱 Vegetarian Twist
Replace shrimp with portobello mushrooms or tofu cubes for a satisfying, spicy vegetarian dinner idea.
🧄 Creamy Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream for a spicy and creamy twist. Great for comfort food lovers.
💰 Budget-Friendly Version
Use frozen shrimp and canned tomatoes for an affordable but delicious meal under $10!
Related: High Protein Smoothie Recipes
🍽️ Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
These delicious side dish ideas and expert wine pairings will help you create a restaurant-quality meal at home. These options are also ideal for low-carb dinners, high-protein meals, and even romantic date night recipes.
🥖 Crispy Garlic Bread
The buttery crunch balances the heat of the tomato sauce perfectly. A top choice for seafood pasta side dishes.
🥦 Roasted Veggies
Low-carb favorites like zucchini, broccoli, and bell peppers add fiber and nutrition without overshadowing the flavor.
🥗 Italian Chopped Salad
A crisp mix of romaine, olives, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette keeps it light and refreshing—perfect for seafood dinners.
🍷 Wine Pairing
Pair with a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the spice. For red lovers, opt for a light-bodied Chianti.
✅ These sides not only enhance the flavor of your main dish but also offer great variety for healthy seafood meal planning.
Related: Spicy Shrimp and Chickpea Salad Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions of Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe [Low Carb Seafood Meal]
“Fra Diavolo” translates to “Brother Devil” in Italian, referring to the spicy flavor profile of this tomato-based seafood sauce. It’s a classic in Italian-American recipes, popular in seafood restaurants for its bold heat and garlic undertone.
Yes! This dish is naturally high in protein and low in carbohydrates. For a keto-friendly shrimp dinner, simply serve it without pasta or over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. It’s an excellent choice for low-carb Italian recipes.
You can substitute the white wine with low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable stock for a non-alcoholic version that still offers rich flavor. This makes it a great option for families or alcohol-free cooking preferences.
Use large wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined. Frozen shrimp is also fine—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess water. Choose sustainable options for a clean-eating seafood recipe.
The spice level is moderate by default, thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust it for a mild or extra spicy seafood pasta by increasing or decreasing the chili flakes based on your preference.
Linguine, spaghetti, or bucatini pair wonderfully with Shrimp Fra Diavolo sauce. For a gluten-free option, use chickpea pasta or shirataki noodles to keep it low carb and high protein.
Yes! Make the sauce in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Cook the shrimp fresh to maintain texture. This makes it a great option for meal prep seafood recipes and quick reheat dinners.
Only freeze the sauce portion. Shrimp becomes rubbery when reheated from frozen. Store sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months and prepare shrimp fresh when ready to eat.
🦐 Shrimp Fra Diavolo Recipe
Spicy, bold, and bursting with flavor, Shrimp Fra Diavolo is a classic Italian-American seafood dish made with tender shrimp simmered in a garlicky, spicy tomato sauce and tossed with pasta. This high-protein, low-carb dinner recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a romantic dinner date at home. If you're looking for an easy shrimp pasta recipe with a kick, this one’s a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)
For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- 1/2 lb linguine or spaghetti (optional)
Notes
- Spiciness: Adjust chili flakes to suit your heat tolerance.
- Low Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or lemon zest before serving.
- Protein Boost: Add scallops or mussels for a seafood medley.
- Wine-Free Version: Substitute wine with chicken or vegetable broth.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
- Pairing Wine: Dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or light red like Chianti.
- For Meal Prep: Store sauce and shrimp separately. Reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 378Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 239mgSodium: 1355mgCarbohydrates: 37gFiber: 3gSugar: 4gProtein: 32g
🛒 Must-Have Tools & Ingredients for Making Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Upgrade your kitchen with these top-rated cooking tools, Italian pantry staples, and shrimp prep essentials. Perfect for preparing restaurant-quality spicy shrimp pasta at home!
Best Non-Stick Skillet for Seafood
Ideal for searing shrimp evenly and cleaning up quickly. A must-have for Fra Diavolo recipes.
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Top Shrimp Deveiner Tool
Quickly clean and prep shrimp with ease. Boosts hygiene and saves time in seafood prep.
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Organic Italian Seasoning Blend
Enhance your sauce with premium basil, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes. Great for all Italian dishes.
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Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Rich in antioxidants & flavor. Use it to sauté shrimp or drizzle for finishing touch.
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