Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a quick, elegant dish combining juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and white wine, tossed with tender pasta and a touch of lemon. This restaurant-worthy meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike. It’s light, flavorful, and effortlessly impressive.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

shrimp (peeled and deveined)spaghettibutterolive oilgarlic (minced)red pepper flakes (optional)white wine (or chicken broth)lemon juicelemon zestsalt and pepperfresh parsley (chopped)grated parmesan cheese (optional)

directions

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and half the butter over medium heat.

Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Pour white wine and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Add the remaining butter and return the shrimp to the pan.

Toss in the cooked pasta, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Finish with lemon zest, chopped parsley, and optional parmesan.

Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges and crusty bread if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use linguine or angel hair pasta instead of spaghetti.

Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for color and nutrition.

Swap wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Use scallops or a seafood mix for variety.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Not recommended for freezing, as shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw fully and pat dry before cooking.

What wine is best for scampi?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well.

Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly, and you can omit red pepper flakes for a milder version.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end to avoid overcooking.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

Yes, for the best texture and flavor, deveining is recommended.

What kind of pasta works best?

Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine pairs beautifully.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free butter alternative and skip the cheese.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance to save time.

How do I keep shrimp from overcooking?

Cook just until pink and opaque, then remove from heat promptly.

Should I rinse pasta?

No, rinsing removes starch needed for the sauce to cling properly.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a fast, flavorful dish that feels special with minimal effort. The garlicky, buttery sauce with a bright lemon finish makes it irresistible, while tender shrimp and pasta make it satisfying. Whether for a cozy dinner or a celebration, this recipe delivers elegance and comfort in every bite.

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