Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat); 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc, or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version); 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons); 1/4 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta for its irresistible combination of buttery shrimp, tangy lemon, and garlic-infused pasta. The flavors come together beautifully, creating a creamy, rich sauce that perfectly coats the shrimp and pasta. The best part is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for when you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The simple ingredients and quick prep make it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, date nights, or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc, or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1/4 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Cook the shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add wine and broth: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
Combine pasta and shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the pasta. Toss everything together, adding a little pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon zest (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with cooking time taking around 15-20 minutes. The total time for this recipe is around 30 minutes, making it an easy and quick dinner option.

Variations

Add vegetables: For a more well-rounded meal, you can add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the pasta. Sauté them with the garlic for extra flavor.
Use a different type of pasta: Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta.
Crispy shrimp: For an added crunch, bread the shrimp lightly with breadcrumbs and pan-fry them before adding them to the pasta.
Creamy scampi: For a creamy version, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce along with the wine and broth.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a little extra butter or pasta water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Just be sure to cook it al dente, as it will absorb the sauce more effectively.

3. What can I substitute for white wine?

If you don’t want to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even a splash of white grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can cook the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine everything.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you want to add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped jalapeño or chili pepper to the garlic while sautéing.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter. You can also skip the butter altogether if you prefer a lighter version of the dish.

.Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that delivers a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home. With its rich, buttery sauce, succulent shrimp, and zesty lemon, this dish will satisfy your cravings for both a hearty and light meal. It’s the perfect combination of simple ingredients, full of flavor, and a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy every bite of this delightful and indulgent pasta!