Shrimp scampi pasta is the perfect mix of comfort and elegance—simple enough for a weeknight, yet fancy enough to impress your guests.
With buttery, garlicky shrimp and tender pasta coated in a light lemony sauce, every bite feels like a treat.
Ready to whip up this restaurant-worthy dish at home?
Let’s dive in!
Quick and Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This shrimp scampi pasta features tender shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce, tossed with al dente spaghetti, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
It’s a satisfying dish that balances the sweetness of shrimp with the savory elements of garlic and butter, resulting in a flavor that is both rich and comforting.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the red pepper flakes and white wine (or chicken broth), scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Return the shrimp to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 plates
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
This recipe is quick and simple, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You’ll wow your friends and family with a dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant, yet it’s made in the comfort of your own kitchen.
The Allure of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This delightful dish showcases the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, bringing a touch of coastal culinary charm to your table. With succulent shrimp enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, the combination is both comforting and satisfying. Each element harmonizes beautifully, making it an appealing choice for various dining occasions.
What sets this dish apart is the effortless way it transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. The plump shrimp paired with perfectly cooked spaghetti creates a delightful texture that is sure to impress.
Preparation: Quick and Easy Steps
Creating this pasta sensation is surprisingly simple. Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a pot of salted boiling water, following the package instructions to achieve an al dente texture. Reserve a bit of the pasta water for later, as it will help bind the sauce to the pasta.
Next, sauté the shrimp in a hot skillet with butter until they turn a beautiful pink. This quick cooking method locks in the shrimp’s natural sweetness and ensures they remain tender.
Building the Flavorful Sauce
The magic truly happens when you prepare the sauce. After removing the shrimp, melt more butter in the same skillet and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Adding red pepper flakes introduces a touch of heat, perfectly balancing the richness of the butter. Incorporating white wine or chicken broth creates a delectable sauce that clings to the pasta.
Bringing It All Together
Once the sauce has simmered and developed its flavors, return the shrimp to the skillet. Combine everything with the cooked spaghetti and a splash of lemon juice, which brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Don’t forget to toss in the reserved pasta water; it helps achieve that ideal creamy consistency while melding the ingredients together seamlessly.
Final Touches: Garnishing for Presentation
To serve, plate the shrimp scampi pasta with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, adding a burst of color and freshness.
A lemon wedge on the side not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also offers an extra zest option for those who enjoy a citrus kick.
This dish is not just a feast for the palate; it is a visual delight as well, making it perfect for entertaining or a cozy dinner at home.
Enjoying the Experience
Garlic butter shrimp scampi pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to sun-kissed Mediterranean shores with each bite.
Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience that is sure to leave everyone satisfied.
What type of pasta works best for shrimp scampi?
Thin pastas like linguine or angel hair work beautifully for shrimp scampi because they hold the light, flavorful sauce perfectly. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand, from spaghetti to fettuccine.
How do you keep shrimp tender in scampi pasta?
To keep shrimp tender, cook them quickly on medium-high heat—just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
Can shrimp scampi pasta be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, and use gluten-free chicken or vegetable broth if needed. The dish will still be just as delicious!