Shrimp scampi with spaghetti is a classic, delicious pasta dish that brings together tender shrimp, garlic-infused olive oil, bright lemon, and silky spaghetti for a meal that feels both elegant and simple. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish delivers bold flavor without a complicated process.
What makes shrimp scampi special is its balance: juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp meet a light yet flavorful sauce that soaks into every strand of pasta. The garlic, butter, and lemon create a harmonious blend that’s rich but never heavy, making it a satisfying yet refreshing choice. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe gives you restaurant-quality flavor at home.
Ingredients :
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti – Long, thin pasta that holds the light sauce beautifully.
- Salt – For seasoning the pasta water and enhancing overall flavor.
For the Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Shrimp add protein and absorb the sauce flavors.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – Provides a flavorful base for sautéing garlic and shrimp.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced – The star aromatic that infuses the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a gentle hint of heat.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon – Bright acidity balances the richness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential seasoning.
- ¼ cup white wine or seafood/chicken broth – Adds depth and helps create a silky sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For freshness and color.
Optional Serving Add-Ins
- Grated Parmesan cheese – For extra richness.
- Crusty bread – Great for dipping into the sauce.
Step-by-Step Directions :
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente — firm to the bite, not mushy.
Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water and then drain the spaghetti. Set it aside while you make the scampi.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels — this helps them sear nicely. Season them lightly with salt and a bit of pepper.
3. Saute the Aromatics and Shrimp
Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat slightly and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, pour in the white wine (or broth) and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. This helps reduce the liquid slightly and infuse the buttery base with extra flavor.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Shrimp and Pasta
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the sauce. Add the drained spaghetti to the pan, tossing again to combine everything evenly.
If the sauce seems a bit thin, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Serve the shrimp scampi immediately with an extra squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.
A side of crusty bread is wonderful for soaking up any remaining sauce.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Add extra veggies: Toss in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added color and nutrients.
- Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta: Makes the dish more adaptable to dietary preferences.
- For more richness: Add an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- Swap proteins if needed: Chicken or scallops work with a similar preparation method if you want a variation.
These tweaks let you adapt the dish while retaining its classic flavor profile.
Conclusion :
Shrimp scampi with spaghetti is a timeless pasta favorite that’s both elegant and accessible. Juicy shrimp bathed in a garlic, lemon, and butter sauce coat every strand of pasta with bright, savory goodness. The dish sings with balanced flavors — rich and buttery, tangy and fragrant, with a hint of heat if you choose to include red pepper flakes.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for one, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal. With clear steps and easy techniques, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish in your own kitchen. Serve it with fresh parsley, a drizzle of extra lemon juice, and crusty bread for a satisfying experience that’s sure to become a go-to favorite.
