Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a simple dish with tender shrimp cooked in garlic butter and lemon sauce, then tossed with pasta. It’s quick, fresh, and loved for its bright flavors and easy steps.
I’ve made this so many times I can do it without looking! I always end up sneaking in a little extra lemon juice—peppers up the taste and makes everyone smile.
For extra convenience, I like to use pre-cooked shrimp and skip boiling the pasta too long—this way it’s ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well here. I prefer peeled and deveined for quick prep. For a different protein, chicken breast can be a solid substitute, cooked same way but sliced thin.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but jarred minced garlic is fine if you’re in a hurry. Use about 3 cloves’ worth, or adjust to taste—more for a stronger punch.
White Wine: A dry white wine adds brightness, but chicken broth or even water with a splash of lemon can work if you want a non-alcoholic version. Use about 1/2 cup for depth.
Butter & Olive Oil: They create a rich, silky sauce. Use unsalted butter for control over salt, but salted is fine if that’s what you have. A mix helps balance flavor if you like.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Adds tang and freshness. Fresh lemon is best, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. Use about 1 tablespoon of juice and some zest for brightness.
How do I sear shrimp without it drying out?
Heat your pan on medium-high until hot. Pat shrimp dry so they sear properly. Add a little oil, then place shrimp in the pan without crowding. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Don’t overcook or they’ll get tough.
- Ensure the pan is hot before adding shrimp, so they sear instantly.
- Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed—to keep the sear crisp.
- Flip once the edges turn pink and the bottom is golden brown.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dry Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Garlic and Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Oils
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Fresh Herbs and Lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
Optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 mins, Cook time: 15 mins, Total time: 25 mins
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley.
4. Combine and Serve
Add cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat with sauce. Serve immediately with extra lemon or parsley if desired.
