Print

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Garlic butter shrimp scampi pasta is a quick, elegant dish featuring juicy shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, lemony butter sauce tossed with tender pasta. It’s restaurant-quality comfort food ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  5. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir and let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
  6. Return cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen.
  7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use white wine to deglaze the pan after sautéing garlic for extra flavor.For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream.Don’t overcook shrimp; they only need 1–2 minutes per side.Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition