Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

February 20, 2025

Updated:

February 20, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that combines the freshness of seafood with the comforting embrace of pasta? Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta delivers just that. Imagine succulent shrimp sautéed in rich garlic butter, perfectly coated in a light sauce, and served over al dente pasta. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With its simple preparation and impressive presentation, it guarantees to turn any meal into a culinary celebration. As you savor each bite of tender shrimp enveloped in zesty flavors and aromatic herbs, you’ll understand why this Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta becomes a beloved favorite among family and friends. Get ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those evenings when time is limited but flavor is essential.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley elevates the flavor profile, ensuring a delicious experience in every bite.
Versatile Meal Option: Whether you serve it for a romantic dinner or as part of a family gathering, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti or Linguine: Choose your favorite type of long pasta; both options pair wonderfully with the sauce.
Fresh Shrimp: Use large, peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture; check for firmness and avoid any that smell off.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential; it adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Butter: A mix of salted and unsalted butter creates a creamy base for the sauce while enhancing flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Parsley: Fresh parsley provides color and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the garlic perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of your butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about one minute.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Stir in remaining butter along with lemon juice. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly in the sauce while allowing them to mingle together for about two minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving warm on plates.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can significantly enhance flavor compared to dried alternatives.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery instead of tender.
Add Spice if Desired: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick.

Mistakes to avoid

Overcooking the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery and lose their delicate flavor. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. To achieve perfect garlic shrimp scampi with pasta, remove them from heat as soon as they are cooked through. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after you take them off the stove.
Using Low-Quality Pasta: The type of pasta you choose greatly affects the overall taste and texture of your garlic shrimp scampi with pasta. Always opt for high-quality pasta made from durum wheat to ensure a firm bite. Cooking it al dente allows it to absorb the sauce without becoming mushy. Avoid using cheap, overly processed pasta that may not hold up well in the dish.
Not Adding Enough Garlic: Garlic is the star ingredient in this dish, so don’t skimp on it! Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor. Depending on your preference, aim for at least four cloves in your recipe. Sautéing garlic until it’s fragrant before adding other ingredients is crucial for enhancing its flavor profile. Skipping this step or using garlic powder instead will not give you the authentic taste you desire.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

– 12 ounces of linguine or spaghetti

– 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter

– 4 tablespoons of olive oil

– 6 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Juice of one lemon

– 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta:

First, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water for later.

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine butter and olive oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about two minutes until fragrant.

Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about three to four minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.

Once cooked, squeeze in the lemon juice and toss in the drained pasta along with reserved pasta water as needed. Mix everything together gently to ensure even coating.

Finally, garnish your dish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

A side salad: A light Caesar or mixed greens salad complements the richness of the dish.
Garlic bread: Serve warm slices of garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
A crisp white wine: Pair it with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful dining experience.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for Garlic Shrimp Scampi?

For Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta, you can use various types such as linguine or spaghetti. These long strands hold onto the sauce well. However, you can also opt for fettuccine or any favorite noodle shape if preferred. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they maintain their texture when combined with the shrimp and sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp in this recipe. Just thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. Frozen shrimp is often just as delicious as fresh shrimp; just be sure to pat them dry before adding them to the pan to avoid excess moisture in your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta.

Can I make Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and store it separately from the sauce mixture and shrimp. When ready to serve, reheat everything together in a skillet over low heat, adding splash water if needed to loosen it up. This way, you keep flavors intact without compromising texture.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can certainly meal prep your Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta. Prepare it in advance but consider storing pasta separately from shrimp to prevent sogginess when reheating. Portion into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage; simply reheat on low heat when ready to enjoy again.

Conclusion for Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

In summary, Garlic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta is a quick yet impressive meal that combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic and perfectly cooked noodles. By following simple steps using accessible ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Remember that pairing options like salads and garlic bread enhance your dining experience further. Enjoy this easy recipe any night of the week or impress guests at your next gathering!