Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s both elegant and effortlessly delicious, look no further than Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta. This recipe is a beautiful balance of succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti or linguine. It’s a classic that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is Worth Your Time

There’s something undeniably satisfying about shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s a dish that hits all the right notes — savory, tangy, and just a little bit spicy thanks to red pepper flakes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and approachable for cooks of any skill level. You don’t need to spend hours prepping or hunting down fancy ingredients. Most of what you need is probably already in your pantry or fridge.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta offers a restaurant-quality meal without the hefty price tag or complicated steps. The shrimp cooks quickly, keeping them tender and juicy, while the lemon juice adds a bright finish that lifts the whole dish. It’s a perfect way to impress guests or treat yourself to a comforting yet refined dinner any night of the week.

What Goes In

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine – Your choice of pasta for that perfect bite.
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – The star protein, fresh or thawed.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – For that rich, creamy base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings the essential aroma and flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds just the right hint of heat.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
• Black pepper, to taste – Freshly cracked for a little extra bite.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and color.
• 1 lemon, juiced – Brightens and balances the richness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) – Adds a savory finish if you like.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Large pot – To boil the pasta perfectly al dente.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the shrimp and sauce.
• Colander – To drain the pasta efficiently.
• Garlic press or knife – For mincing garlic.
• Tongs or pasta fork – To toss pasta and shrimp together.
• Citrus juicer or reamer – To extract fresh lemon juice easily.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help marry your sauce and pasta later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned — garlic can turn bitter quickly if overcooked.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook fast, so keep an eye on them to avoid rubbery texture.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and garlic butter sauce. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and toss everything together. If the sauce feels dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta. For an extra touch of indulgence, grate some Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy every bite of this flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta.

Make It Your Way

• Swap the pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Herb variations: Try fresh basil or cilantro instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Toss in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
• Protein swaps: If you want a grain alternative, try Garlic Butter Shrimp With Quinoa for a wholesome variation.
• Cheese options: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Errors to Dodge

• Don’t overcook the shrimp. They only need a few minutes per side and should be pink and firm, not rubbery or mushy.
• Avoid burning the garlic. Cook it gently in butter over medium heat, stirring often to prevent bitterness.
• Don’t skip reserving pasta water. It’s key to achieving a silky sauce that clings to your pasta beautifully.
• Season gradually. Taste as you go to avoid oversalting, especially after adding Parmesan cheese.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta tastes great the next day but is best enjoyed fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods as shrimp can become tough.

If you want to meal prep, consider cooking the pasta and shrimp separately, then combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess water in the pan, which can prevent proper searing and caramelization.

What’s the best pasta to use for shrimp scampi?

Spaghetti and linguine are classic choices because their long, thin strands hold the garlic butter sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with fettuccine or even angel hair pasta depending on your preference.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Be sure to use plenty of salted boiling water and stir the pasta a few times during cooking. Also, tossing the cooked pasta immediately with the sauce and a bit of reserved pasta water helps prevent sticking.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Penne – A luscious and comforting pasta featuring fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp With Quinoa – A protein-packed, grain-based alternative with all the buttery garlic goodness.
• Grilled lemon herb chicken with roasted vegetables – light and flavorful for a balanced meal.
• Quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta – fresh, filling, and perfect for warm days.

Final Bite

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a timeless dish that delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. It’s quick enough for busy evenings but special enough to serve when you want to impress. The combination of tender shrimp, rich garlic butter, bright lemon, and fresh parsley tossed with perfectly cooked pasta creates a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe box. Whether you enjoy it solo or pair it with a crisp salad or crusty bread, this dish will satisfy your craving for something deliciously simple and unforgettable.

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