Delicious Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe for Every Occasion

Name: Quick and Tasty Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp); ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); Salt, to taste

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

April 6, 2025

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Imagine twirling a forkful of perfectly cooked pasta around succulent shrimp, all bathed in a garlicky, buttery sauce that makes your taste buds dance in delight. That’s right; we’re diving into the delicious world of shrimp scampi pasta—a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug from your favorite grandma, making it impossible to resist.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta - A Culinary Delight

Now picture this: it’s a cozy Friday night, and you’ve just wrapped up a long week. You want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter our hero—shrimp scampi pasta! This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging on a solo Netflix binge. Trust me; once you taste this creamy goodness, you’ll be dreaming about it during those boring Monday meetings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing shrimp scampi pasta is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually appealing on any dinner table.
Perfect for date nights yet versatile enough for casual family dinners.

My friend once declared my shrimp scampi pasta “the best thing since sliced bread” at a dinner party!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Shrimp: Look for fresh or frozen shrimp—peeled and deveined saves time and hassle.
Pasta: I prefer linguine, but spaghetti works just as well; choose your favorite.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are crucial here; they bring that aromatic punch we all crave.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness; it adds richness to the sauce.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled versions just don’t cut it.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness—don’t skip this step!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor; it enhances everything!
Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds heat without overpowering the dish; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cooking shrimp scampi pasta is as easy as pie—or should I say as easy as slurping up spaghetti? Let’s break it down into manageable steps.

Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot over high heat. Add linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes.

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then toss in the shrimp.

Add Flavor Bombs: As soon as the shrimp turn pink (about 2-3 minutes), stir in red pepper flakes and lemon juice. This is where the magic happens!

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain your pasta (reserve some cooking water) and add it directly into the skillet with the shrimp mixture. Toss everything together while adding reserved water if needed for creaminess.

Finish with Herbs and Serve!: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley and remaining butter until melted. Serve immediately while hot—your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish that combines simplicity with elegance!

Now you have everything you need to create an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone raving about your culinary skills—and secretly wishing they could steal your recipe!

You Must Know

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the sea to your table.
The buttery garlic sauce is a culinary hug, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
With fresh shrimp and al dente pasta, it’s irresistibly delicious.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta first; this allows you to combine it with the scampi sauce immediately after. Sauté shrimp in garlic butter while the pasta cooks, ensuring both are fresh and hot when served.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out shrimp for scallops or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also provide a delightful kick, making it your own special creation.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on low heat on the stove with a splash of broth for moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use large shrimp for a satisfying bite; they hold up better during cooking.
Always use fresh garlic for maximum flavor and avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep them tender.
Toss everything together quickly off heat to blend flavors without compromising texture.

Cooking Shrimp Scampi Pasta always reminds me of that time my friends declared me the “Pasta Queen” after one delicious dinner party. Their compliments still echo in my kitchen!

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Pasta?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking for best results.

What type of pasta works best with Shrimp Scampi?

Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment with others.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives like rice or quinoa pasta.

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