Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe

Shrimp scampi with pasta is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich, buttery, and garlicky flavors. This dish combines tender shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, lemony sauce that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this shrimp scampi recipe is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

1. Prepare the Shrimp

• While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
• Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

1. Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, add the white wine, lemon juice, and chicken broth. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced by half.

1. Combine Pasta and Shrimp

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt and incorporate into the sauce.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to combine and heat through.

1. Finish and Serve

• Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
• Serve the shrimp scampi with pasta immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

About the Main Ingredients

Linguine or Spaghetti: These types of pasta are ideal for holding onto the flavorful scampi sauce. Linguine is slightly wider and flat, which helps to scoop up the sauce, while spaghetti is a classic choice.

Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this recipe as they offer a satisfying bite and can stand up to the robust flavors of the sauce. Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined to save time and ensure a smooth eating experience.

Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and a smooth texture to the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish.

Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps in sautéing the garlic and shrimp.

Garlic: A key ingredient that infuses the dish with its aromatic and savory flavor. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best taste.

Red Pepper Flakes: Add a touch of heat and complexity to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

White Wine: Enhances the flavor of the sauce with its acidity and depth. Dry white wine is preferred, but you can substitute with additional chicken broth if needed.

Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a tangy contrast to the richness of the butter and shrimp. Fresh lemon juice is best for a vibrant flavor.

Chicken Broth: Provides additional liquid and flavor to the sauce. You can use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color to the finished dish.

Parmesan Cheese: Contributes a nutty, salty flavor that complements the shrimp and pasta. Grated Parmesan blends well into the sauce.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavors of the dish. Adjust to taste.

Lemon Wedges: Serve with the dish for an extra burst of lemony flavor when desired.

This shrimp scampi with pasta recipe combines simple ingredients with easy-to-follow steps to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that brings a touch of elegance to your dining table with minimal effort.