Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Garlicky White Wine Seafood Dinner in 40 Minutes

The Ultimate Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe That Will Impress Your Dinner Guests

This delectable shrimp scampi pasta combines succulent jumbo shrimp sautéed in a garlicky white wine butter sauce with perfectly cooked linguine for an easy yet impressive Italian dinner. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

There’s something magical about the combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp that makes this Italian-American classic so irresistible. This seafood pasta dish strikes the perfect balance between elegant restaurant-quality dining and easy home cooking. The tender shrimp and al dente pasta are coated in a silky, flavorful sauce that’s guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds!

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Shrimp Scampi Pasta

• 1 pound large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined with tails on
• 1 (16 ounce) package linguine pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Shrimp Scampi Pasta

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the shrimp: While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This ensures they’ll sear properly rather than steam. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Create the scampi sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink. Be careful not to overcook! Remove shrimp to a plate and set aside.

4. Build the flavors: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30-60 seconds until fragrant (but don’t let the garlic brown).

5. Deglaze the pan: Add the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

6. Bring it all together: Return the shrimp to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Add the drained pasta, lemon zest, and parsley. Toss everything together, adding splashes of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.

7. Serve: Divide among plates and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Chef’s Tips for Elevating Your Shrimp Scampi

• Choose the right shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for this dish. They’re more substantial and won’t overcook as quickly as smaller sizes.
• Don’t skip the wine: The white wine adds acidity and depth of flavor that’s essential to authentic scampi. If you prefer to cook without alcohol, substitute with additional seafood stock or chicken broth plus an extra splash of lemon juice.
• Pasta water is liquid gold: Always save some of that starchy pasta water. Adding a few tablespoons to your sauce creates a silky texture that helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
• Timing matters: Shrimp cook extremely quickly. They’re done when they turn pink and form a “C” shape. If they curl into a tight “O” shape, they’ve overcooked and may become rubbery.

Possible Variations for Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta

• Add vegetables: Sauté cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus with the garlic for added nutrition and color.
• Try different pasta: While linguine is traditional, fettuccine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta all work beautifully.
• Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, more decadent version.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat, or add a dash of cajun seasoning for a fusion twist.

Nutritional Information

What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi Pasta

This luxurious pasta dish pairs beautifully with:

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf
• Roasted asparagus or broccolini
• A glass of the same white wine you used in the sauce

Storage and Reheating Instructions

While shrimp scampi pasta is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to revitalize the sauce. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the shrimp tough.

Why This Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe Will Become Your Go-To Dinner

This restaurant-worthy shrimp scampi pasta is the perfect combination of elegant and easy. The garlicky butter sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked linguine create a harmonious blend of flavors that will impress any dinner guest while still being simple enough for a weeknight meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something delicious, this classic Italian-American dish delivers every time!

Recipe adapted from: AllRecipes Shrimp Scampi with Pasta