This Linguine Shrimp Scampi is a tasty dish full of tender shrimp and pasta, cooked in a flavorful garlic and butter sauce. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for any night!
I love how the big, juicy shrimp shine in this recipe. Every bite feels like a little celebration! Pair it with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: This flat pasta pairs perfectly with the sauce. If you’re out of linguine, spaghetti works well too. Gluten-free pasta is another option for those avoiding gluten.
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for a nice bite. If shrimp isn’t available, scallops can be a tasty substitute. Just adjust cooking times as scallops may take a bit longer.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning. If you’re looking for lower fat options, try using olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
Garlic: You can’t go wrong with fresh garlic! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds depth to the dish. If you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth works great, though it will slightly change the flavor.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon brightens up the dish. Bottled lemon juice can substitute in a pinch, but fresh is always better for taste!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp until they’re perfectly tender is key in this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with dry shrimp to get a nice sear. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Heat your butter and oil on medium heat to get the pan hot enough for a quick sear.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and curl slightly. Be careful not to overcook them; they can become rubbery.
Remember, shrimp cook quickly! Once they’re pink and opaque, they’re done, so keep an eye on them for the best results.
How to Make Linguine Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouth-watering Linguine Shrimp Scampi takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the pasta, followed by another 20 minutes to sauté the shrimp and prepare the flavorful sauce. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This will help you adjust the sauce later if needed!
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Lightly season them with salt and pepper so that they absorb the flavors as they cook.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter together with the olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. The kitchen will start to smell amazing!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and squeeze in the lemon juice. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. This will concentrate the flavors in your sauce.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the lemon zest until the sauce becomes silky smooth. The butter helps to create a rich texture!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained linguine. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and shrimp are well coated in the sauce. If the dish looks a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
8. Final Seasoning:
Stir in the chopped parsley and taste the dish. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Linguine Shrimp Scampi immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon slices on the side for that fresh touch. Enjoy this delightful dish with some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Simply cook the shrimp and combine with the pasta when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to add a little extra butter or reserved pasta water to freshen it up when reheating!
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Substitute for White Wine?
Absolutely! Chicken broth works great as a substitute for white wine. It adds a nice depth of flavor without the alcohol. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
