Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe

Craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and elegance? This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is the perfect solution! It’s a classic seafood recipe that brings together succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Imagine diving into a plate of perfectly al dente linguine tangled with tender shrimp, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s a dish that will impress any guest at your dinner table while being incredibly easy to whip up for a weeknight meal.

This recipe is all about simplicity and taste, allowing the fresh flavors of the shrimp and the aromatic garlic to shine through. Whether you’re entertaining or treating yourself, this shrimp scampi is sure to delight.

Table of Contents

Preparing the Perfect Linguine

The foundation of any great pasta dish starts with the linguine. Choose high-quality pasta that will hold its shape and texture during cooking.

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta until it reaches al dente is essential, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce. Drain the pasta while reserving some of the starchy water. This water will be helpful for achieving the desired consistency in the finished dish.

Sautéing Succulent Shrimp

The shrimp is the star of this dish, and getting it just right is key. Use large, fresh shrimp for the best results. Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat, allowing the richness to develop.

Add minced garlic and, if desired, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. The aroma that fills the kitchen at this stage is irresistible! Once the garlic is fragrant, introduce the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper, cooking for a couple of minutes on each side until they turn a lovely pink. This cooking method ensures that the shrimp remains tender and juicy.

Creating a Flavorful Sauce

Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, it’s time to add depth to the dish with a sauce. Pour in a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth, which will deglaze the pan, lifting the flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.

Incorporating fresh lemon juice adds brightness, balancing the richness of the butter. Allow the sauce to simmer briefly, letting the flavors meld together. This step is crucial for a balanced and aromatic sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully.

Tossing Everything Together

Now comes the fun part—combining the linguine with the shrimp and sauce! Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything gently. The goal is to coat the linguine evenly with the garlic butter sauce.

If the pasta appears dry, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water. This starchy addition not only helps to achieve the right texture but also binds the sauce to the noodles, creating a cohesive dish.

Finishing Touches

At this stage, you can enhance the dish with fresh chopped parsley, which adds a burst of color and freshness. Stir it in gently to preserve the vibrant green color.

For those who enjoy a richer flavor, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can take this dish to the next level. Serve the garlic butter shrimp scampi immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for an extra zest.

Setting the Scene

Creating an inviting atmosphere enhances the dining experience. A rustic wooden table setting complements the vibrant dish beautifully. Pairing this meal with a glass of crisp white wine elevates the occasion.

Consider adding fresh lemon wedges on the side, not just for garnish but to allow guests to add a splash of acidity to their servings. The combination of flavors, aromas, and the right ambiance makes for a delightful meal that will impress anyone at the table.

Delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

This shrimp scampi recipe features juicy shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter, served over linguine pasta. The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley creates a bright, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp, making every bite a taste sensation.

Ingredients

8 ounces linguine
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp is pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
Create the Sauce: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Combine: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Finish: Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 400kcal
Fat: 17g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g