Introduction
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a timeless Italian-American dish that perfectly balances succulent shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce, tossed with tender pasta. The dish is elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, making it a versatile favorite. The bright notes of lemon, fresh herbs, and garlic create a light, aromatic flavor that complements the delicate sweetness of the shrimp.
What I love most about this recipe is its ability to feel indulgent without being heavy. The combination of al dente pasta, juicy shrimp, and a rich yet bright sauce is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. It’s a dish that looks sophisticated on the plate but comes together quickly and easily, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s both simple and impressive. The shrimp cook in just a few minutes, releasing their natural sweetness into a garlicky, buttery, and slightly tangy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the aroma of garlic and lemon fills the kitchen, making it irresistible even before you sit down to eat.
Another reason I adore it is its versatility. You can customize the pasta type, adjust the garlic and butter levels, and even add vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition. It’s comfort food that feels gourmet—a rare combination that makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This recipe is a must-try because it delivers:
- Flavorful Protein: Shrimp are naturally sweet and tender, absorbing the garlicky, lemony sauce beautifully.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings or entertaining.
- Versatility: Serve as a weeknight dinner, special occasion meal, or romantic dinner for two.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: You get that luxurious, rich taste without complicated steps or ingredients.
It’s a dish that impresses, satisfies, and becomes a family favorite once tried.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings & Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: ~450 kcal
Recipe Details
- Course: Main Course / Pasta
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Shrimp
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking Directions
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze Pan: Pour in white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine Pasta & Shrimp: Return shrimp to the skillet. Toss in cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky sauce that coats the noodles evenly.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Plate immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and grated Parmesan if desired.
How to Serve
- Serve hot in wide pasta bowls for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge.
- Optional: Add a light drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, or thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.
- Don’t overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery quickly.
- Reserve pasta water to help bind the sauce and keep it silky.
- Adjust garlic and red pepper flakes to your taste for mild or spicy flavor.
Variations
- Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Add ¼ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
- Vegetable Boost: Add asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach during the sauce stage for color and nutrition.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.
- Spicy Garlic Scampi: Double the red pepper flakes for a bolder kick.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Scampi: Increase lemon juice for a brighter, tangy flavor.
Freezing & Storage
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended for best texture, as shrimp become rubbery and pasta soggy. Prepare fresh for optimal results.
Special Equipment Needed
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs or pasta fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality taste into your kitchen. With succulent shrimp, garlicky, buttery sauce, and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or special occasions. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation, it’s a must-try recipe that combines comfort and sophistication in every bite.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Description
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a timeless Italian-American dish that perfectly balances succulent shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce, tossed with tender pasta.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Shrimp
Optional Garnish
Instructions
-
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
-
Prepare Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
-
Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
-
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
-
Deglaze Pan: Pour in white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
-
Combine Pasta & Shrimp: Return shrimp to the skillet. Toss in cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky sauce that coats the noodles evenly.
-
Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
-
Serve: Plate immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and grated Parmesan if desired.
