If you’ve been searching for a dish that feels like a warm Italian hug on a plate, your quest ends here with this Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender linguini wrapped in a luscious garlic butter sauce, studded with plump, juicy shrimp and kissed by bright lemon and fresh parsley. Whether you want something elegant for a weekend dinner or a quick weeknight meal that feels special, this recipe comes together so smoothly, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. The flavors are vibrant, the textures divine, and every bite is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a key role—from the garlic’s fragrant warmth to the bright punch of lemon, and the succulent shrimp that make this dish so memorable.
- 12 ounces linguini pasta: Choose good-quality linguini for the ideal tender yet firm bite that holds the sauce perfectly.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Opt for fresh or thawed, and keep the tails on or off based on your preference for ease or presentation.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness that balances the garlic and butter beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The heart of the sauce, giving it that silky, luxurious texture you crave.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Imparts the aromatic depth that defines this classic Italian-American favorite.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A subtle heat to awaken your palate if you like a little kick.
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Creates a tangy, flavorful base that lifts the sauce without overwhelming it.
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus wedges for serving): Adds brightness and fresh acidity that perfectly complements the rich sauce.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: For a burst of color and a herbaceous note that marries the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to highlight all the wonderful layers of flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A savory, melty topping that makes every bite even more irresistible.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your linguini until perfectly al dente. Don’t forget to save half a cup of pasta water before draining — this starchy splash will help your sauce bind beautifully with the noodles and keep everything silky.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
While the linguini cooks, heat your olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, letting those flavors bloom and fill the kitchen with that intoxicating aroma. Just 30 seconds is enough—don’t let the garlic brown or burn.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer to the skillet, seasoning with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let them cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn that gorgeous pinkish-orange and become opaque. Overcooked shrimp lose their tenderness, so keep an eye on them! Once done, gently remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
To the hot skillet, pour in your dry white wine or chicken broth along with the fresh lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping up all the flavorful bits stuck to the pan’s surface. This is where the magic deepens. Then whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until your sauce becomes silky and rich.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, toss in your drained linguini, and splash in some reserved pasta water. This starchy liquid helps marry noodles and sauce for that perfect clinging texture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat every strand and every piece of shrimp in that luscious garlic butter goodness.
Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and give your dish a final taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Now your Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this dish with lemon wedges adds a fresh, zesty burst that brightens every bite. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese is also a wonderful finishing touch, providing a nutty, salty contrast that melts elegantly over the warm pasta.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up every last drop of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You could also add a handful of toasted pine nuts or chili flakes for added texture and spice. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving never hurts either—it’s like the cherry on top of a gorgeous Italian masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce, but a quick toss with a splash of broth or water when reheating will restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately for up to 1 month. Store the linguini on its own to avoid mushiness. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little broth, pasta water, or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve the shrimp’s delicate texture and the vibrant flavor of the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the skillet. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work great for this recipe.
What if I don’t have white wine on hand?
No worries! Dry white wine adds acidity and depth, but chicken broth is a wonderful substitute that keeps the dish flavorful and balanced.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes bring just a gentle warmth, which you can easily adjust or omit depending on your spice preference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out regular linguini for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just watch the cooking time to ensure perfect al dente texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Since seafood is best enjoyed fresh, the Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe is ideal for quick cooking and serving. However, you can prep ingredients like garlic and parsley ahead to save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
Cooking and sharing this Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe brings such joy—it’s a dish that never fails to impress and satisfy. The balance of bright, buttery, and garlicky flavors with tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a timeless favorite to have in your repertoire. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to when you want something truly delicious with a hint of Italian magic.
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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
Shrimp Scampi Linguini is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender, garlic butter sautéed shrimp tossed with al dente linguini pasta, brightened with fresh lemon juice and parsley. This easy, flavorful seafood pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be enjoyed with optional Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces linguini pasta
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus lemon wedges for serving)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguini until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make Sauce: To the same skillet, add the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and combined.
- Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained linguini. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Toss everything together until the pasta and shrimp are coated evenly with the buttery sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the shrimp scampi immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they are well patted dry before cooking to achieve proper sear.
- This dish is best served fresh to enjoy the vibrant flavors, but leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth or water to maintain sauce consistency.
