Name: Shrimp Linguine White Wine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American-inspired Italian
Ingredients: 4 tbsp butter, split into two portions.; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped, divided.; 4 cups of chicken broth or veggie stock.; 2 cups regular water.; 1 lb of linguine pasta.; 1 and a half pounds of large, uncooked shrimp.; 3/4 cup of dry white wine.; 1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped small.; 1 cup heavy cream.; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded.; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped.; 1 whole lemon for flavor.; Salt and pepper, adjusted to your liking.

A comforting bowl of shrimp linguine topped with parsley and fresh black pepper. | thefamilycooks.com

This garlic and white wine linguine with shrimp has become a staple in my kitchen. The delicate sauce perfectly coats each strand of pasta while the succulent shrimp absorb the rich garlic and wine flavors. The aromatic combination fills the kitchen with an irresistible fragrance that draws everyone to the table.

Perfecting the Flavors

The key to this dish lies in balancing the white wine, cream, and garlic. The sauce remains light enough to let the shrimp shine while providing just the right amount of richness. The result rivals any restaurant version but comes together easily in your own kitchen.

Essential Ingredients

Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted European-style
Garlic: 4 fresh cloves, finely minced
Broth: 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
Water: 2 cups for cooking pasta
Linguine: 1 pound dried pasta
Shrimp: 1½ pounds jumbo, peeled and deveined
White Wine: ¾ cup dry variety
Sage: ¼ cup fresh, minced
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Parmesan: ½ cup freshly grated
Parsley: ½ cup fresh chopped
Lemon: 1 whole fresh
Salt and Pepper: To taste

Preparation Method

Base Preparation: Begin by melting butter in a large pot. Add half the garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in broth and water, bring to boil, then add linguine. Cook until pasta absorbs the liquid.
Cooking the Shrimp: While pasta cooks, melt butter in a separate skillet. Cook shrimp until they turn pink and form natural C-shapes.
Creating the Sauce: Add remaining garlic, sage, and wine to the shrimp. Simmer until wine reduces and flavors meld.
Final Assembly: Combine shrimp mixture with pasta, adding cream and cheese. Finish with fresh lemon juice.

A bowl of creamy fettuccine pasta topped with shrimp and garnished with parsley and black pepper. | thefamilycooks.com

Chef's Notes

Watch shrimp carefully to avoid overcooking. Reserve some pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan and finish with fresh lemon juice for optimal flavor.

Recipe Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Additional stock works well in place of wine. Fresh herbs can be varied based on availability - basil and thyme make excellent alternatives.

Accompaniments

Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette provides balance. Consider serving with the same white wine used in cooking.

Storage Guidelines

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of cream. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain shrimp texture.

Recipe Success

Simple ingredients combine to create an elegant meal. The sauce achieves perfect consistency while tender shrimp provide substance. An ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Troubleshooting Tips

Monitor shrimp cooking time carefully. Keep pasta water for sauce adjustments. Quality Parmesan and fresh herbs significantly impact final flavor. Sauce should evenly coat pasta.

Entertaining Tips

Prepare components ahead of time. Cook pasta just before serving. Present on a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for maximum visual appeal.

Nutritional Benefits

Shrimp provides lean protein while herbs offer nutrients. Modify with whole grain pasta and reduced-fat dairy for a lighter version. Maintains flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.

Customer Reviews

Home cooks report mastering seafood preparation through this recipe. Many have adopted it for special occasions. Variations using alternate seafood have proven successful.

Alternative Preparations

Add red pepper flakes for heat. Substitute mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Sauce complements various proteins. Consider adding fresh spinach for extra nutrients.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate in sealed container up to three days. Reheat slowly on stovetop with added cream. Avoid microwave to preserve shrimp texture and sauce consistency.

A creamy shrimp fettuccine dish garnished with parsley, displayed in a white pot. | thefamilycooks.com

Additional Tips

Gluten-free pasta substitutes well in this recipe. Half-and-half provides a lighter alternative to cream. Prepare components ahead but assemble just before serving for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What’s the best white wine to use?: Go for dry options like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Use a wine you'd enjoy drinking, as its flavor will stand out in the dish.
→ Can the wine be skipped?: Yes! Swap it with extra broth and add a bit of lemon juice. The taste will change a little but still be tasty.
→ What’s the ideal shrimp size?: Jumbo shrimp (about 16-20 per pound) are best because they stay tender and don’t overcook. Use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked ones.
→ Why cook the pasta in broth?: It adds depth to the flavor while the starchy water helps thicken the sauce. Plus, using one pot means fewer dishes after cooking!
→ How can I prep this ahead of time?: It’s best fresh, but you can prep by cleaning the shrimp and chopping the garlic and herbs in advance.

Conclusion

This quick and delicious shrimp linguine blends juicy seafood with a rich, creamy white wine and garlic butter sauce. Made in one pot, it’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Shrimp Linguine White Wine