Dinner

Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Garlic, Lemon, and Parmesan Recipe

Name: Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Garlic, Lemon, and Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine or spaghetti; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 tbsp olive oil; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4–1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Byluca Carter December 2, 2025December 2, 2025

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Introduction

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with a vibrant garlic and lemon sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive meal perfect for garlic lovers craving a restaurant-quality dinner at home.

A close-up of a plate of spaghetti with shrimp, presented on a white plate. The spaghetti forms the bottom layer with a pale yellow color and smooth texture, spread evenly across the plate. On top, there are several cooked shrimp with a light orange-pink color and slightly charred spots, scattered evenly over the noodles. The dish is garnished with chopped green herbs sprinkled over the shrimp and pasta. There is a generous dusting of finely grated white cheese concentrated on the top right side of the dish. A bright yellow wedge of lemon sits behind the shrimp toward the upper edge of the plate. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp olive oil

6 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine

1 tbsp lemon zest
3 tbsp lemon juice
1/4–1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Instructions

Step 1: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Heat a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium-high heat, then sear the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 5: Pour in the white wine and let it reduce for 2–3 minutes, then stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Stir in the remaining butter until melted and combined.

Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat, using reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 8: Return the shrimp to the pan, toss with chopped parsley, and heat through briefly.
Step 9: Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth.
Add a splash of cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Use jumbo shrimp for a more substantial bite and impressive presentation.

Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, so don’t skip them for the best flavor.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp scampi pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving directly to preserve the texture of the shrimp.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a serving of spaghetti layered thickly with pale yellow noodles forming the base. On top, several pinkish-orange cooked shrimp are scattered, each showing slightly charred marks. Green herbs are sprinkled throughout the noodles, adding flecks of dark green color. A small wedge of bright yellow lemon rests on the edge of the plate. The background shows a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What type of pasta works best for shrimp scampi?

Linguine or spaghetti are classic choices because they hold the light sauce well, but feel free to use other long pasta like fettuccine or even angel hair for a delicate touch.