Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe

If you’ve ever craved restaurant-style pasta magic in your own kitchen, Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is your ticket to weeknight luxury. Picture juicy shrimp nestled in silky linguine, all tossed in a buttery lemon-garlic sauce that’s bursting with bright, briny flavor—this dish is as swoon-worthy as it is easy to prepare.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is that the ingredient list is simple yet so thoughtfully balanced—each item brings depth, freshness, or a little kick that makes the dish sing. Don’t skip or swap lightly; each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture!

• Linguine Pasta: The classic choice—its flat, wide shape cradles the silky sauce beautifully. You could also use spaghetti or fettuccine in a pinch!
• Butter: Adds richness and a little bit of that glossy, decadent texture to the sauce.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Gives fruity depth, enhances the shrimp, and helps the garlic and shallots become deliciously fragrant.
• Shallots: A more delicate cousin to onion, shallots add subtle sweetness and a whisper of sharpness to balance the butter.
• Garlic: The backbone of scampi’s flavor. Use fresh, and plenty of it!
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a tiny spark of heat—add more or less depending on your love for spice.
• Shrimp: The star! Go for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture and most impressive presentation.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper: These keep the seasoning bright and not overly salty, letting the seafood shine.
• Dry White Wine: Brightens the sauce and adds dimension. Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or any dry white will work—just make sure it’s good enough to drink!
• Lemon Juice: Brings everything to life with tangy, sunny citrus. Fresh, not bottled, is a must here.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of color and a fresh, herby finish right before serving.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (for drizzling): That final splash before serving adds shine and brings all those flavors together.

Variations

The magic of Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is in how customizable it is—don’t be shy about making it your own! Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or using up what’s on hand, it’s easy to give this classic some personal flair.

• Gluten-Free: Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta for the linguine and you’ll have an equally dreamy, saucy meal.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in baby spinach, snap peas, or cherry tomatoes in the last minute of cooking for color and nutrition.
• Swap the Protein: If you’re not in the shrimp mood, try scallops or chunks of sweet lobster—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
• No Wine: Substitute a splash of low-sodium chicken broth and a touch more lemon juice if you prefer to go alcohol-free.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your linguine and cook until just shy of al dente—usually about 6 to 8 minutes. Remember, the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce, so don’t overdo it. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta cooking water just in case you want to loosen your sauce later!

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sauté the finely diced shallots, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until the shallots turn translucent and aroma fills your kitchen—about 3 to 4 minutes. This is the moment everything starts to smell irresistible.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Season your peeled, deveined shrimp with kosher salt and black pepper for a perfect pop of flavor. Toss them into the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and just opaque—usually only 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery fast. Lift the cooked shrimp from the pan and keep them warm.

Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the white wine and fresh lemon juice—listen for that sizzle! Bring it to a boil and use a wooden spoon to scrape all the browned bits (so much flavor!) from the skillet’s bottom. Let it bubble for a minute or two until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce & Toss it All Together

Melt in the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and stir in another 2 tablespoons olive oil, letting the sauce come to a simmer. Return the drained linguine to the skillet along with shrimp and parsley, tossing everything together so the pasta is lushly coated. Season with more salt, pepper, and that final drizzle of olive oil. Serve your Shrimp Scampi with Pasta as soon as possible, steaming and fragrant.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Garnishes

To make your Shrimp Scampi with Pasta really pop, shower the finished plate with plenty of freshly chopped parsley and a few extra lemon wedges. A light dusting of grated Parmesan (if you like) gives creamy, salty contrast, and a crack of fresh pepper adds just the right hint of bite. Even a drizzle of good olive oil right as you plate will brighten each twirl!

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs gorgeously with a simple green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette. Add warm, crusty bread or garlic knots for dunking into any leftover scampi sauce—trust me, you won’t want a drop to go to waste. For a special meal, serve with roasted asparagus or tender broccolini for a veggie-packed feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Give each plate a restaurant-style look by twirling the linguine into neat nests and arranging the shrimp artistically on top. Serve Shrimp Scampi with Pasta in pre-warmed shallow bowls for maximum coziness, or pile it high on a big platter for a festive, family-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer your Shrimp Scampi with Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The flavors mellow and mingle overnight, making for a delicious next-day lunch. Try to enjoy within 2 days for the very best texture.

Freezing

While you can freeze leftovers, shrimp can become rubbery after being frozen and reheated. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge—just be aware that the sauce may separate a bit, so stir well when you reheat.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta and shrimp together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil as needed to keep things silky. Avoid using the microwave if possible—the shrimp like gentle heat!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

No matter the season or the occasion, Shrimp Scampi with Pasta transforms an ordinary night into something truly memorable. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—your kitchen will smell incredible, your tastebuds will be cheering, and everyone at the table will be asking for seconds! Happy cooking!

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