Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a quick and flavorful skillet meal made with juicy shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, bright lemon, and perfectly cooked pasta. Elegant yet easy, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or anytime you crave a satisfying seafood pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth or reserved pasta water
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Optional add-ins: sun-dried tomatoes, spinach
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook about 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth or reserved pasta water, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Combine: Add lemon juice, cooked pasta, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly, adding more pasta water if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped parsley, Parmesan cheese, and extra lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture.
- Do not overcook the shrimp, as they become rubbery quickly.
- Fresh garlic and lemon juice provide the best flavor.
- Do not rinse cooked pasta; the starch helps the sauce cling.
- Add spinach during the final toss for extra color and nutrients.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
Keywords: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta, Shrimp Scampi Recipe Pasta, Shrimp Scampi With Pasta, Easy Shrimp Pasta, Shrimp Recipes Pasta, Pasta With Shrimp