Garlicky Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is a classic, flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to prepare but feels like a special meal. The shrimp is sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce and tossed with linguine for a perfect dinner! Here’s how to make it:
Garlicky Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Directions:
1. Cook the linguine:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the shrimp:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the pasta and shrimp:
- Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to help loosen it up.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine with the pasta and sauce.
5. Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp scampi and give everything one final toss.
- Serve the Garlicky Shrimp Scampi with Linguine immediately, with grated Parmesan on top, if desired.
Tips:
- Wine substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- Make it spicy: For a spicier version, you can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Add vegetables: You can stir in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini noodles for added nutrition.
- Shrimp cooking tip: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and become tough if left in the skillet for too long.
This Garlicky Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is buttery, garlicky, and full of flavor—a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!