Description
Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a flavorful and elegant Italian seafood dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in garlic-infused butter and olive oil, brightened with fresh lemon juice and a hint of red pepper flakes. Tossed with perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti or linguine and finished with Parmesan cheese and parsley, this quick and easy meal is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Shrimp Scampi Sauce
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the shrimp scampi sauce.
- Heat Butter and Olive Oil: In a large skillet, melt the butter and heat the olive oil together over medium heat, creating a flavorful base for the shrimp.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to turn golden.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until the shrimp turn pink, then flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until fully opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the chicken broth, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors and reduce slightly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful scampi sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the pasta. Give it a final toss and serve immediately for a warm, delicious meal.
Notes
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Do not overcook the shrimp to maintain their tender texture and juicy flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness in the dish.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a pescatarian-friendly option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
