If you are searching for a dish that perfectly balances bright lemony flavors, tender shrimp, and silky pasta, this Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe is a true winner. Every forkful is a delightful harmony of garlicky butter sauce embracing plump shrimp and linguini cooked just right. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe delivers effortless elegance with every bite. It’s a personal favorite that combines simple ingredients into a dish bursting with warmth and sophistication.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s worth appreciating how straightforward yet essential each ingredient is. Every component in this Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish so irresistible.
- 12 ounces linguini pasta: The perfect long pasta to soak up the luscious scampi sauce with just the right firmness.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender and juicy, they’re the star protein that makes this dish special.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic without burning.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For that indulgent, velvety texture and buttery flavor in the sauce.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Provides aromatic depth and that signature sharpness every shrimp scampi needs.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a subtle kick that brightens the whole dish without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Used to deglaze the pan and add acidity and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings refreshing brightness that balances the buttery richness beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Enhances the lemon flavor with a fragrant burst.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant color and herbal note to finish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting every flavor in the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional): Adds a savory, nutty finish if you want an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Linguini Perfectly
Start by cooking the linguini in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness when bitten. This texture is key because the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce later, so you don’t want it too soft. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—it’s pure gold for helping the sauce cling to every strand of pasta!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spices
While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, sautéing just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. This gentle cooking releases the garlic’s natural oils without burning it, setting the stage for the sauce’s amazing flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook, or they’ll become rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside; they’ll be reunited with the pasta soon!
Step 4: Create the Luscious Sauce
Pour the dry white wine or chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the pan. Let the liquid simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and glossy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked linguini directly into the skillet, tossing well to coat every strand in that dreamy buttery sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the consistency is silky and smooth. Return the shrimp to the pan, mixing them gently. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring every bite sings!
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, finish your dish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of green and freshness. If you love a cheesy touch, dusting some finely grated Parmesan cheese over the top adds a subtle nuttiness that perfectly complements the shrimp and sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple green salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli also make excellent, colorful companions that keep the meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve your Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe in shallow bowls, twirling the pasta into neat nests. Garnish with whole parsley sprigs or thin lemon slices to impress guests visually and enhance the citrus notes. You can also plate the shrimp on top of the linguini for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation sure to wow everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the pasta continues absorbing the sauce, you might find it a bit thicker when reheated—adding a splash of water or broth helps revive that luscious texture.
Freezing
While freezing shrimp pasta is possible, it’s best to avoid it for optimal taste and texture. If you do freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight to avoid sogginess and keep the flavors intact.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftover Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring often. Add a little olive oil or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Microwaving works too, but be sure to stir halfway through and cover to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess liquid disrupting the sauce.
Is it okay to substitute the white wine with something else?
Yes, chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute that still adds depth and acidity to the sauce without changing the flavor drastically.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the sauce fresh to keep the vibrant flavors bright and the butter silky, but you can prepare the garlic and parsley in advance to save time.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Simply swap out butter for a good-quality olive oil and skip the Parmesan, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative for that finishing touch.
What other types of pasta can I use?
While linguini is classic, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even angel hair pasta work wonderfully with the Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe, allowing you to adapt to what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe is one of those magical dishes that make you feel like you’re indulging without the fuss. It’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and a comforting richness that will have everyone asking for seconds. I truly encourage you to try this recipe—it’s a beautiful way to bring warmth and a touch of elegance to your dinner table anytime you crave seafood pasta perfection.
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Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Shrimp Scampi Linguini is a classic Italian-American seafood pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic, lemon, and buttery white wine sauce, served over perfectly cooked linguini. It’s a quick and elegant meal, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces linguini pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
To Serve
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and combined.
- Toss Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked linguini to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to combine well.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and black pepper to your taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream before adding the pasta.
- You can substitute spaghetti or fettuccine for linguini if preferred.
- Using dry white wine enhances the flavor, but chicken broth is a suitable non-alcoholic alternative.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
