Name: Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup parsley, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lb linguini; Salt for pasta water

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted a dish that feels like a warm hug in pasta form, you’re in for a treat with this Shrimp Scampi Linguini. It combines succulent shrimp cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce with the bright zest of lemon and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes. The linguini noodles serve as the perfect canvas, soaking up every bit of that flavorful sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight favorite or a show-stopping dinner for friends, this dish brings together freshness and comfort in every delectable bite.

Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Shrimp Scampi Linguini lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh and pantry staples, you create a symphony of flavors that feels gourmet yet comes together effortlessly. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the silky butter that adds richness to the bright lemon that lifts the entire dish.

1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides tender, juicy protein with a hint of natural sweetness.
1 lb linguini: The long, flat pasta holds the garlicky sauce beautifully for every bite.
4 tablespoons butter: Adds a creamy, luscious texture and depth of flavor to the sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps cook the shrimp evenly and balances the butter’s richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory punch that’s impossible to resist.
1/2 cup white wine: Adds acidity and complexity while deglazing the pan for the sauce.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Delivers bright, citrusy notes that cut through the richness.
1/4 cup lemon juice: Provides a fresh tang that makes every bite pop.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives a mild, warming heat that complements the shrimp perfectly.
1/4 cup parsley, roughly chopped: Adds color and fresh herbaceous flavor to finish the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Linguini

Step 1: Cook the Linguini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is key because the salt seasons the pasta as it cooks, ensuring every strand is flavorful. Cook the linguini until it’s al dente—firm but tender—so it holds up beautifully when tossed with the sauce. Once done, drain it but don’t rinse; you want the starch to help the sauce cling.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The combination prevents the butter from burning and creates a silky base. Once the butter stops bubbling, add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on one side. Flip them over and toss in the minced garlic, cooking for 2 more minutes while stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Next, pour in the white wine along with the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Bring this mixture to a simmer—it’ll deglaze the pan and absorb all those browned bits from cooking the shrimp, creating a rich depth. Let it reduce slightly over 2 minutes to intensify the flavor and thicken the sauce just enough.

Step 4: Add the Bright Notes

Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the lemon juice and zest as well as the red pepper flakes and parsley. This step brightens and balances the sauce, giving it that signature tangy kick with a touch of spice. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed to bring all the flavors fully together.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Finally, add the drained linguini directly to the skillet and toss gently to coat every strand in the luscious sauce. This last step is where everything comes together—you’ll see the pasta glistening with butter, dotted with plump shrimp and flecks of green parsley. Serve immediately for the best experience, while it’s warm and fragrant.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Linguini

Shrimp Scampi Linguini Garnishes

One of the easiest ways to elevate your Shrimp Scampi Linguini is through thoughtful garnishes. A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green, while a dusting of Parmesan cheese can lend a salty creaminess that complements the lemony sauce perfectly. If you love a bit more zest, a few thin lemon slices or a final drizzle of good-quality olive oil make the dish feel even more special.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, consider simple sides that won’t overpower the Shrimp Scampi Linguini. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast, and roasted or steamed asparagus provide a tender vegetable that pairs wonderfully. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also fantastic for soaking up the irresistible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present Shrimp Scampi Linguini

Presentation can turn this classic into a memorable dining experience. Try plating the linguini in neat nests on individual plates, then layering the shrimp artfully on top. For a more festive vibe, serve it family-style in a large serving bowl with lemon wedges on the side. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can give the dish a gourmet look if you’re aiming to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Shrimp Scampi Linguini will keep well for up to two days. Be sure to separate the pasta and shrimp if possible to help maintain texture, though recombining before storing is fine too.

Freezing

Freezing this dish isn’t usually recommended because the texture of cooked shrimp and linguini can suffer. However, if you want to freeze it, allow the dish to cool completely, then package it in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Shrimp Scampi Linguini slowly in a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of water, broth, or a little olive oil will help loosen the sauce and keep the shrimp tender. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it risks rubbery shrimp and dry pasta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Linguini?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.

What kind of white wine works best in this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal. It adds acidity without sweetness and complements the lemon and seafood beautifully.

How spicy is Shrimp Scampi Linguini with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or leave them out entirely for a milder dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the linguini for a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.

Is there a vegetarian version of Shrimp Scampi Linguini?

You can replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for a vegetarian twist that still pairs beautifully with the garlic, lemon, and buttery sauce.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably satisfying about pulling together Shrimp Scampi Linguini with just a handful of fresh ingredients and a little love. The bright flavors, tender shrimp, and silky noodles combine to create a dish that feels both special and approachable. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a whirl and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Shrimp Scampi Linguini Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 27 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Shrimp Scampi Linguini is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender, succulent shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of white wine and lemon, served over perfectly cooked al dente linguini. This quick and flavorful pasta recipe balances zesty citrus notes with a mild spicy kick from red pepper flakes, making it an elegant yet easy meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Instructions

Cook the linguini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguini and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the shrimp base: While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter stops bubbling before proceeding.
Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes. Flip the shrimp, add the minced garlic, and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Make the sauce: Pour in the white wine along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces and thickens.
Finish the sauce: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
Combine and serve: Add the cooked linguini into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the shrimp and sauce. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor.

Notes

Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
If white wine is unavailable, chicken broth can be used as a substitute, but will slightly alter the flavor.
Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit if you want a milder dish.
Reserve some pasta water before draining; adding a splash can help loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
Garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Boiling
Cuisine: Italian-American