Shrimp Scampi Pasta: A Zesty, Buttery Delight

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home. With succulent shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and a hint of lemon, it’s a bright and zesty pasta that never disappoints. Perfect for date nights, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something flavorful but simple, this recipe comes together in just a few steps. The creamy sauce, combined with al dente pasta and tender shrimp, is sure to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
• Garlic & Lemon – Bold, zesty flavors that complement the shrimp
• Creamy & Rich – A buttery sauce that coats each pasta strand
• One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup
• Family-Friendly – Perfect for both kids and adults
• Customizable – Add more lemon, cheese, or herbs to suit your taste

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later.
2. Cook the Shrimp
   In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce
   In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add Lemon and Seasoning
   Pour in lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, scraping up any bits left from the shrimp.
5. Combine Pasta and Shrimp
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to help create a silky sauce.
6. Serve & Garnish
   Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pasta and sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve

• Classic: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad
• Extra Zesty: Squeeze more lemon juice over the pasta before serving
• Cheesy: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top
• With Veggies: Add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor

Helpful Tips

• Don’t overcook the shrimp, they cook quickly and become tough if overdone
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor
• Don’t skip the pasta water, it helps thicken the sauce and make it creamier
• Adjust the lemon juice, add more for an extra burst of freshness
• If you want a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick
• Creamy Version: Stir in a little heavy cream for a richer sauce
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil or thyme for extra flavor
• Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with mushrooms for a meat-free option
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in a handful of mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy dish

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the shrimp can lose texture when frozen
• Reheat: Gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back the creaminess

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, but you can cook and store the pasta separately and reheat with the shrimp and sauce later.

Is this recipe spicy?
No, but you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, linguine, fettuccine, or even penne would work well in this dish.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is the perfect balance of buttery richness, zesty lemon, and garlic flavor. This easy-to-make dish will quickly become a weeknight favorite, whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or a crowd. With minimal ingredients and minimal effort, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.