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Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 60 reviews

This classic Shrimp Scampi recipe features succulent large shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine and fresh lemon juice, served over bucatini or linguine pasta. Ready in just 13 minutes, this flavorful dish is perfect for a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 pounds large or extra large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Sauce and Cooking

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced (3-4 teaspoons)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (use 1/4 teaspoon for less spicy)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Pasta

  • 12 ounces bucatini or linguine

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bucatini or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer the pasta to a serving platter or bowl.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Spices: In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
  4. Simmer with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, stir to combine, and let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly reduced, intensifying the flavor of the sauce.
  5. Cook the Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 1 minute on one side, then flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
  6. Finish the Sauce: Turn off the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Stir until the butter melts completely. Taste the sauce and add additional salt or lemon juice if needed to balance the flavors.
  7. Serve: Pour the shrimp scampi sauce over the prepared pasta. Garnish with lemon slices and extra parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture; if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best to complement the garlic butter sauce.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta.
  • Serve immediately as reheating can affect the texture of the shrimp and pasta.