There’s something utterly irresistible about this Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion. Imagine succulent, garlicky shrimp bathed in a luscious buttery lemon sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked linguine to soak up every bit of flavor. This dish is a classic Italian-American delight that’s quick to whip up but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding family or guests, it’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table with its vibrant, fresh ingredients and comforting textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity, using a handful of fresh ingredients that each bring a vital touch to the flavor profile. Every item on this list is essential to achieving that perfect balance of bright, buttery, and savory notes.
- 12 ounces linguine or spaghetti: The ideal pasta shape to twirl and capture the flavorful sauce.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender and juicy, they’re the star protein of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps sear the shrimp beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Provides the creamy, silky base for the signature scampi sauce.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with its signature pungent warmth and aroma.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a subtle kick that wakes up the palate.
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth: De-glazes the pan and adds depth to the sauce.
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons): Brightens the dish with fresh acidity.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Provides a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional): Adds a savory, nutty finish that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cooking the linguine or spaghetti just right is crucial because it forms the foundation of this dish. Follow the package directions to achieve al dente pasta, which means it should be tender but still firm to the bite. Before draining, reserve half a cup of pasta water – it’s a clever trick that helps loosen the sauce later and lets everything cling together beautifully.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper in a single layer so they cook evenly. About 1 to 2 minutes per side is enough to turn them pink and opaque while keeping them juicy and tender. Avoid overcrowding the pan, or they’ll steam instead of sear. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic along with the optional red pepper flakes. Sautéing these just 30 seconds releases that unmistakable fragrance without burning the garlic. Next, pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with the fresh lemon juice to deglaze the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes as it reduces slightly, concentrating the flavors while melding the buttery and citrus notes.
Step 4: Combine and Toss Everything Together
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every strand and shrimp is coated with that luscious sauce. If the sauce feels thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it just enough for a silky finish. Lastly, toss in the freshly chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste. This final step brings freshness and balance to the dish.
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Serving shrimp scampi piping hot is a joy on its own, but adding garnishes takes it over the top. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese melts slightly over warm pasta, adding complexity and richness. A scatter of extra fresh parsley brightens each bite visually and enhances the fresh herbaceous notes. For those who love extra zing, a few lemon wedges on the side let guests customize their citrus punch.
Side Dishes
When it comes to side dishes, simplicity is key so as not to overpower the delicate flavors of the shrimp scampi. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast and a satisfying crunch. Roasted or steamed asparagus, green beans, or broccoli compliment the buttery sauce beautifully. For bread lovers, warm, crusty baguette slices are perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce without missing a drop.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just make dinner feel extra special, consider serving this dish in individual shallow bowls that showcase the vibrant colors and textures. Garnish each plate with a twisted lemon peel or sprinkle microgreens for a gourmet touch. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or finish with a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of boldness. Presentation is about highlighting the dish’s natural beauty and making it inviting on every level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the pasta has soaked in the sauce, the flavors deepen overnight, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. When storing, separating the shrimp from the pasta can help maintain texture, but tossing them together is perfectly fine for convenience.
Freezing
Freezing this shrimp pasta dish is not ideal due to the delicate texture of cooked shrimp and pasta, which may become mushy upon thawing. If you must freeze, store only the cooked shrimp and sauce separately, and reheat gently to avoid overcooking. It’s best to prepare fresh when possible for the ultimate taste and texture experience.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm the shrimp and pasta together gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Avoid using a microwave if possible as it can cause uneven heating and toughness in the shrimp. Slow and steady heating preserves the dish’s luscious texture and bright flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works well as long as you thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. This prevents added moisture that can interfere with searing and achieving that perfect texture.
What type of pasta is best for shrimp scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti are classic choices because their thin, long strands catch the buttery sauce perfectly, but feel free to experiment with fettuccine or angel hair depending on your preference.
Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?
While white wine adds a lovely depth and tang, chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute that still brings richness and flavor to the sauce without overpowering the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out the linguine or spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce and shrimp remain the same, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe.
Can I add other seafood to this recipe?
Yes! Scallops or chunks of firm white fish can be great additions or substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe remains a beloved classic—it’s a perfect marriage of ease, elegance, and mouthwatering flavor that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, this dish invites you to savor each bite of garlicky, buttery shrimp entwined with delicate pasta. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes for a truly memorable meal.
Print
Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is a quick and flavorful Italian-American dish featuring juicy shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and white wine. Served over linguine or spaghetti, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender seafood and pasta in a zesty, buttery sauce garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces linguine or spaghetti
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice, then bring to a simmer. Allow the sauce to reduce slightly, cooking for 2–3 minutes to intensify the flavors.
- Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat well in the sauce. If the sauce seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of olive oil and extra butter in the sauce.
- You can substitute scallops or chicken in place of shrimp for variation.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivity.
