This Linguine Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet elegant dish full of tasty flavors! Fresh shrimp and garlic come together with tender pasta for a meal that feels special.
Who needs fancy restaurants when you can whip this up at home? I love to serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a slice of garlic bread—pure comfort on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: This pasta is flat and works well for this dish. If you can’t find linguine, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine instead. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Shrimp: I recommend large shrimp for this recipe, but feel free to use medium or even frozen shrimp if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure they are thawed thoroughly before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil. It won’t taste quite the same, but it will still be delicious!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic creates a flavorful base. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work, but fresh is always best for that strong flavor.
White Wine: A dry white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you want a non-alcoholic version, substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. A splash of vinegar can also work in a pinch!
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned shrimp and cook for just 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. When they curl up tightly, they’re usually done!
Once they’re cooked, set them aside while you prepare the sauce. This allows the shrimp to stay juicy and flavorful!
Linguine Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Shrimp:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cooking Essentials:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Flavor Boosters:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
Liquid Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
Finishing Touches:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 20-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and 15-20 minutes cooking. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet fancy enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Linguine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before you drain the pasta—this will help when mixing everything together later!
2. Heat the Skillet:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the butter melts completely without browning.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Season the shrimp with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant—don’t let it burn!
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, making sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes so it reduces a bit and thickens up.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts and everything is well combined. This adds a lovely creaminess to the sauce!
7. Combine Shrimp and Pasta:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat. Then, add the drained linguine into the skillet and toss everything together! If it looks a bit dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little bit at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Serve the Linguine Shrimp Scampi right away, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if you like!
Enjoy your delicious, garlicky Linguine Shrimp Scampi!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Pasta Can I Substitute for Linguine?
If you don’t have linguine on hand, spaghetti or fettuccine are great alternatives. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Without Wine?
Yes! If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar flavor profile. A splash of lemon juice can also be added for extra brightness!