Name: Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Lemon wedges; Grated Parmesan cheese

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If you dream of a quick yet elegant dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is a breeze to make at home, Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is the answer. This dish combines plump, juicy shrimp with tender noodles, all tossed in a garlicky, buttery sauce brightened with lemon and a hint of white wine. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for both a busy weeknight and a special occasion, bringing a taste of the coast right to your kitchen table.

Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is that the ingredient list is short, but every piece plays a starring role. From vibrant shrimp to aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, each element builds layers of flavor and color that make this dish so irresistible.

Linguine or Spaghetti (12 oz): The classic choice for soaking up all that luscious sauce, but feel free to use your favorite long pasta.
Large Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star of the show; aim for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture.
Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): Adds depth and helps the butter stay silky instead of greasy.
Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons, divided): For that signature scampi richness and a velvety finish.
Garlic (5 cloves, minced): The aromatic backbone—don’t skimp!
Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For just a whisper of heat; adjust or skip as you like.
Dry White Wine or Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Wine adds brightness, but broth will do the trick if you prefer not to cook with alcohol.
Lemon Juice (from 1 lemon): Freshly squeezed makes all the difference in the world.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A little goes a long way to balance the richness.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): For a pop of color and herby freshness.
Lemon Wedges (optional): To squeeze over just before serving for an extra zing.
Grated Parmesan (optional): Adds a nutty, creamy finish if you love a cheesy touch.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add your linguine or spaghetti and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, be sure to scoop out about half a cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside—this little trick is the key to a silky, restaurant-style sauce later on. Drain the pasta and keep it ready for its big moment.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and, if you like a little warmth, those red pepper flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This is the foundation of that signature Shrimp Scampi with Pasta aroma—trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Next up, add the shrimp to the skillet, spreading them out in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Let them sizzle for just 1 to 2 minutes per side, turning once, until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook—they should be juicy and tender. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside for a moment.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

With the shrimp out of the pan, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and freshly squeezed lemon juice, scraping up any little bits left behind—that’s pure flavor gold! Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce looks glossy and inviting.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Return the drained pasta and cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together so the noodles are coated in that garlicky, buttery sauce. If the sauce seems too thick or the pasta looks a bit dry, a splash or two of your reserved pasta water will bring it all together. Finish by stirring in the chopped fresh parsley and adjusting seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Shrimp Scampi with Pasta immediately, garnished with extra parsley, lemon wedges, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan if you like. Each bite is bright, buttery, and absolutely irresistible!

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, top your Shrimp Scampi with Pasta with a shower of fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon. A dusting of grated Parmesan adds a creamy, savory note, while extra lemon wedges at the table let everyone control their own citrusy zing. If you’re feeling fancy, a twist of freshly cracked black pepper is always welcome.

Side Dishes

This dish shines beside simple sides that don’t compete with its bold flavors. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, or a platter of roasted asparagus or green beans, makes a refreshing match. And don’t forget a loaf of crusty bread—perfect for soaking up every last drop of that irresistible sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, twirl the pasta into neat little nests on each plate and arrange the shrimp on top. Or, serve Shrimp Scampi with Pasta family-style in a big, shallow bowl for a more relaxed, communal vibe. You can even skewer the shrimp for a playful touch or serve the pasta in individual ramekins for a dinner party flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Shrimp Scampi with Pasta (lucky you!), transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to two days. Just know that shrimp are always best enjoyed soon after cooking, so leftovers are a great excuse for a quick, delicious lunch.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, it’s not my favorite method. The texture of the shrimp and pasta can change after thawing, sometimes becoming a bit mushy. If you do choose to freeze it, store in a tightly sealed container and use within one month for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, add the pasta and shrimp to a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth. Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, just until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible—the shrimp stay juicier and the pasta holds its shape better when reheated on the stovetop.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi with Pasta?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear nicely and prevents excess water from diluting your sauce.

Is it possible to make Shrimp Scampi with Pasta without wine?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken broth for the white wine. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and full of character.

What type Main Course

Linguine and spaghetti are traditional and hold the sauce beautifully, but feel free to use fettuccine, angel hair, or even a gluten-free option if you prefer.

How can I make the dish creamier?

For a richer version, stir in a splash of heavy cream after you add the butter to the sauce. This transforms the dish into a more luxurious, velvety treat.

Can I add vegetables to Shrimp Scampi with Pasta?

Definitely! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus tips tossed in with the pasta are all tasty additions that add color and a nutritional boost.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a meal that comes together in under 30 minutes yet feels incredibly special, and Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is just that. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with your favorite people, I hope this recipe inspires you to bring a little bit of coastal comfort into your kitchen. Give it a try—you’re just a few simple steps away from a plateful of joy!

Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This classic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta features tender, juicy shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon, tossed with perfectly cooked linguine or spaghetti. A quick and elegant Italian-American dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

12 oz linguine or spaghetti

Shrimp and Sauce

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
Juice of 1 lemon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

To Serve (Optional)

Lemon wedges
Grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Finish the Sauce: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in the buttery lemon sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Add Parsley and Season: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.
Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and grated Parmesan on the side, if desired.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream before adding the pasta.
Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency easily.
Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat but are optional.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American