Few dishes strike the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity quite like Shrimp Scampi Over Pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, this seafood classic combines the briny sweetness of large shrimp with a rich, garlicky butter sauce, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked linguine or spaghetti. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, shrimp scampi never fails to impress.
This dish is rooted in Italian-American cuisine, and while “scampi” refers to a type of small crustacean in Italy, in the U.S., it has come to describe shrimp cooked in garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine. The result? A dish that is vibrant, silky, and indulgent—but still refreshingly light.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Quick to prepare – Ready in 25 minutes, ideal for weeknights.
- ✅ Restaurant-quality at home – Elegant and flavorful.
- ✅ Customizable – Add veggies, spice, or swap the pasta.
- ✅ Minimal cleanup – Uses only a few pans.
Let’s dive into the full recipe.
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this savory shrimp scampi:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
(You can substitute with angel hair, fettuccine, or even zucchini noodles if desired.)
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
(Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp both work.)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Garnish (Optional but Recommended):
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
🍳 How to Make Shrimp Scampi Over Pasta
Step 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.
- Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
💡 Tip: Drizzling a little olive oil over the drained pasta can help prevent sticking while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp are pink, opaque, and lightly golden. Remove shrimp and set aside on a plate.
🔥 Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. If needed, cook the shrimp in batches.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
- In the same pan, lower the heat to medium, add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
- Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and collect all the flavorful bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off.
- Stir in the lemon juice, then return the shrimp (and any juices) to the pan.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce.
- Toss everything together gently to coat. If the mixture looks dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired saucy consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra lemon juice if needed.
- Sprinkle in the chopped parsley.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the pasta and shrimp while hot.
- Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with lemon wedges or more parsley for a fresh touch.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Serve alongside garlic bread or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Add vegetables like asparagus tips, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for variation.
👩🍳 Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
- Use fresh garlic – It’s key to developing the deep flavor of the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – They cook quickly and turn rubbery if left too long.
- Deglaze properly – Scraping up the bits after adding the wine gives your sauce depth.
- Add a creamy twist – For a richer version, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or mascarpone.
🧂 Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- No wine? Use chicken broth or seafood stock.
- Spicy version – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Low-carb – Swap pasta for spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash.
- Cheesy finish – Stir in a touch of cream cheese for extra indulgence.
📦 How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
- Avoid microwaving shrimp on high—it can overcook and ruin the texture.
✅ Nutritional Highlights (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: Varies based on salt and cheese added
Note: These values are estimates and will vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?
Yes! Simply substitute the wine with chicken broth or seafood stock. It won’t have the same depth of flavor, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know if shrimp are cooked properly?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a C-shape. Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw them under cold running water and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What pasta works best with shrimp scampi?
Linguine and spaghetti are traditional, but fettuccine, angel hair, or even short pasta like penne can be used depending on your preference.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Just omit the red pepper flakes and ensure the shrimp are cut or served in manageable sizes for little ones.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely. Asparagus, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini ribbons pair well with the sauce and shrimp.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Shrimp Scampi Over Pasta is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a timeless recipe that delivers flavor, elegance, and comfort in every bite. With minimal ingredients and a streamlined cooking process, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. Whether you’re treating yourself or serving guests, this dish guarantees satisfaction in under 30 minutes.
So next time you need a reliable yet impressive meal, remember: shrimp, butter, garlic, pasta—done.
Bon Appétit!