Shrimp Scampi with Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This garlic shrimp pasta is the perfect easy weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce and tossed with your favorite pasta for a meal that feels both elegant and effortless. For another simple pasta dish, try this Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe.

Ingredients

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe combines succulent shrimp with a bright, buttery garlic sauce that clings perfectly to al dente linguine for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound linguine pasta
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and devein 1 pound of large shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels. Mince 4–5 cloves of garlic and chop fresh parsley. Measure out 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti, ¼ cup of olive oil, and ½ cup of chicken broth.

Step 2 — Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3 — Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper searing. Shrimp are done when they form a loose “C” shape.

Step 4 — Cook the Garlic

Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Step 5 — Create the Sauce

Pour chicken broth and ¼ cup of reserved pasta water into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This creates a flavorful base for your garlic shrimp pasta sauce.

Step 6 — Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add drained pasta to the skillet along with the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time.

Step 7 — Finish and Serve

Stir in chopped parsley, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve your garlic shrimp pasta immediately while hot.

Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, restaurant-quality presentation.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	620 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Zucchini Noodles — Lower-carb option that absorbs the garlic sauce beautifully while adding freshness.
• Chicken Breast — Lean protein alternative to shrimp, still pairs wonderfully with garlic and herbs.
• Chickpea Pasta — Gluten-free choice with extra protein and fiber to keep you satisfied longer.
• Coconut Milk Cream Sauce — Rich dairy-free alternative that creates a luxurious, tropical-flavored garlic sauce.
• Mushrooms — Hearty plant-based substitute that soaks up garlic flavors and provides meaty texture.
• Spaghetti Squash — Naturally low-carb pasta alternative with subtle sweetness that complements garlic well.
• Nutritional Yeast — Dairy-free option for cheesy flavor without adding sodium to your garlic shrimp pasta.
• Lentil Pasta — High-protein, gluten-free alternative that holds up well with the garlic shrimp sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to complement the rich garlic flavors.
• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping into the savory sauce.
• Perfect for a romantic dinner or a quick, impressive weeknight meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for color and spice.
• Accompany with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Plate over a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the pasta and shrimp beautifully.

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is versatile enough for both casual family dinners and elegant entertaining.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking shrimp until rubbery. Fix: Cook shrimp just until opaque and pink, about 1–2 minutes per side.
• Mistake: Using pre-minced garlic from a jar. Fix: Always use fresh garlic cloves for the best aromatic flavor.
• Mistake: Adding garlic to hot oil too early, causing it to burn. Fix: Sauté garlic for only 30–60 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the pasta water. Fix: Salt the water generously so it tastes like the sea for well-seasoned pasta.
• Mistake: Not reserving starchy pasta water for the sauce. Fix: Save a cup of pasta water to help emulsify and thicken your sauce.
• Mistake: Crowding the pan when searing shrimp. Fix: Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure a proper sear and avoid steaming.
• Mistake: Using a low-quality olive oil that smokes easily. Fix: Choose a good extra virgin olive oil with a higher smoke point for sautéing.
• Mistake: Overloading the dish with too many competing ingredients. Fix: Let the garlic and shrimp shine by keeping additions simple.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to pat shrimp dry before cooking. Fix: Dry shrimp thoroughly to promote browning and prevent splattering.
• Mistake: Tossing pasta with sauce in a cold pan. Fix: Combine pasta and sauce over low heat to help the sauce cling perfectly.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying.

Always use shallow containers for quicker cooling and to maintain food safety. Never leave Garlic Shrimp Pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Conclusion

This Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick, elegant meal perfect for busy weeknights. We hope you love this shrimp scampi recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know your thoughts in the comments. For more easy dinners, check out our Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe and Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more rapid recipes!

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Shrimp Pasta?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in your Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Long pasta like linguine or spaghetti works wonderfully, as it holds the sauce well. For a heartier option, fettuccine is also a great choice for your Garlic Shrimp Pasta.

How can I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic over medium heat and stir it constantly. Adding it just before the shrimp helps, as the shrimp release moisture that protects the garlic in your Garlic Shrimp Pasta.