Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of shrimp scampi with pasta! This dish is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender pasta and succulent shrimp in a buttery, garlicky sauce that’s just out of this world. It’s one of those classic recipes that never goes out of style, and I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia every time I whip it up. The smell of garlic sizzling in the pan gets me every time—it’s like a warm hug! I love serving this dish for family gatherings or simply a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try my shrimp scampi with pasta, you’ll understand why it’s become a go-to favorite in my kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious—you really can’t go wrong!

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

8 ounces of spaghetti – This is the perfect amount to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce!
1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined – I always prefer fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture, but frozen works too if you don’t have access to fresh.
4 tablespoons of butter – Adds richness and a wonderful creaminess to the dish.
4 tablespoons of olive oil – A must for sautéing and enhancing those lovely flavors.
4 cloves of garlic, minced – The star of the show! Don’t skimp on this; it brings that amazing aroma.
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes – Just the right amount to give it a little kick without overwhelming the dish.
1/2 cup of white wine – Choose a good quality wine that you’d enjoy drinking; it really elevates the sauce!
1 lemon, juiced – Fresh lemon juice brightens everything up and balances the richness beautifully.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all those wonderful flavors.
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish!

How to Prepare Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making shrimp scampi with pasta! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll be serving up a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to add a generous pinch of salt to the water—this is your chance to season the pasta! Drain it when it’s al dente, but don’t rinse it; you want that lovely starch to help the sauce adhere.
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, letting them melt together until they’re bubbling and fragrant. This is where the magic starts, so don’t rush it!
Once the butter is melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it—garlic can go from perfect to burnt in a heartbeat, and we want that lovely golden color!
Now it’s time to add the shrimp. Toss them in and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Oh, the smell is divine!
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Season the shrimp mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and then toss in the cooked spaghetti. Use tongs to mix everything together until the pasta is well coated in that buttery, garlicky goodness.
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve it up hot, and watch everyone’s faces light up as they take that first bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich, buttery flavors that make every bite a delight.
Fresh ingredients come together to create a comforting classic.
Impressive enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for any night.
Customizable to suit your taste—add veggies or tweak the spice level!
It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Tips for Success

To make your shrimp scampi with pasta truly shine, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh shrimp and a good quality white wine can make all the difference. I always say, if you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it! Learn more about choosing wine for cooking.
Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them! As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re ready. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, and we definitely don’t want that!
Timing is key: Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking. The process moves fast, and you don’t want to be scrambling for garlic while your shrimp are sizzling!
Save some pasta water: Before draining your spaghetti, reserve a cup of the pasta water. If your sauce needs a little extra help sticking, a splash of that starchy goodness can work wonders!
Garnish generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish. Don’t be shy about it—more is always better!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be whipping up shrimp scampi with pasta like a pro in no time!

Variations on Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your shrimp scampi with pasta! For starters, why not switch up the pasta? While I love spaghetti, you could use linguine, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta to suit your preference.

Want to add some veggies? Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach right when you add the shrimp for a burst of color and nutrients. You could even add asparagus or zucchini for a delightful crunch!

If you’re looking to spice things up, try adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. And for those who enjoy a little extra depth of flavor, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving can take this dish to a whole new level. Get creative, and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying shrimp scampi with pasta, I love to keep it simple yet delicious! A crisp, refreshing salad pairs beautifully—think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, garlic bread is a must—it’s perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce!

And let’s not forget about wine! A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish’s vibrant flavors wonderfully. Trust me, these pairings will take your shrimp scampi experience to the next level!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for shrimp scampi with pasta. Each serving contains approximately 470 calories, 20g of fat, 25g of protein, and 48g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check your labels for more accurate details, especially if you’re watching your intake!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp scampi with pasta?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. I usually let them sit in cold water for about 15–20 minutes. Frozen shrimp can still taste great, especially if you’re in a pinch!

What should I serve with shrimp scampi?
A simple green salad or garlic bread is a perfect match for shrimp scampi with pasta. Both add a refreshing or hearty touch to the meal, making it even more satisfying!

Can I make shrimp scampi ahead of time?
While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just reheat gently and add freshly cooked pasta right before serving. This way, you can still enjoy that delicious, garlicky flavor without too much fuss!

How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep it moist!

Can I use other types of pasta?
Definitely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with linguine, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta. Each type brings its own unique texture and flavor, so have fun with it!

Shrimp Scampi with Pasta: 7 Delectable Secrets Revealed

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Seafood

Print Recipe

Description

A classic shrimp scampi dish served with pasta.

Instructions

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute.
Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour in white wine and lemon juice; cook for 2 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper.
Toss the cooked spaghetti in the skillet with the shrimp mixture.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp for best flavor.
Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spice level.
Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 470
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 200mg

Keywords: shrimp scampi with pasta

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