Classic Shrimp Scampi

Classic Shrimp Scampi – A Timeless Favorite

This Classic Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for shrimp lovers. Cooked in a buttery white wine sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in under an hour. Serve it for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Recipe Summary:

• Prep Time: 10 Minutes
• Cook Time: 20 Minutes
• Total Time: 30 Minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• Kosher salt, for seasoning

• 16 ounces linguine (or pasta of choice)

For the Shrimp & Sauce:

• 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1/3 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

• Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

• 1 cup reserved pasta water (for adjusting sauce consistency)

Optional Add-Ins & Variations:

• Cherry tomatoes – for a burst of sweetness

• Spinach or arugula – to add a fresh, healthy twist

• Mushrooms – for extra umami flavor

• Grated Parmesan cheese – for a richer finish

• Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash – for a low-carb version

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Season shrimp with kosher salt. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (30 seconds to 1 minute).

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just done, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add white wine and lemon juice to the skillet, simmering for 2 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Return shrimp to the skillet along with cooked linguine, butter, and 1/2 cup pasta water. Toss and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce is silky. Adjust with more pasta water if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Season with salt. Stir in parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Chef’s Tip:

• Use High-Quality Shrimp – Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp work well, but wild-caught shrimp have the best flavor.
• Cook Shrimp Quickly – Shrimp cook in just 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery.
• Don’t Overdo the Lemon – Too much lemon juice can overpower the delicate balance of garlic and butter.
• Reserve Pasta Water – This starchy liquid helps create a smooth, restaurant-style sauce.
• Adjust Spice Level – Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Variations & Customizations

🔥 Low-Carb Shrimp Scampi – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash.

🧀 Creamy Shrimp Scampi – Add ¼ cup heavy cream or grated Parmesan cheese to create a creamy sauce.

🌿 Herb-Infused Scampi – Try fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for extra flavor.

🍅 Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes – Add halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness.

🍄 Mushroom Shrimp Scampi – Sauté mushrooms with garlic for extra depth.

Wine Pairings 🍷

Pair this dish with crisp, dry white wines that complement the garlic and butter flavors:

• Sauvignon Blanc – Bright acidity enhances the lemon and garlic.
• Pinot Grigio – A light, crisp pairing with fresh flavors.
• Chardonnay – A buttery Chardonnay pairs well with the rich sauce.
• Vermentino – A fresh Italian white with citrusy notes.

Serving Suggestions 

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious scampi sauce.

• Light Salad – Serve with an arugula or mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

• Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini make great sides.

• Extra Citrus – Serve with extra lemon wedges for a zesty boost.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for shrimp scampi?

Yes! While linguine is traditionally used, you can swap it with other types of pasta such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even angel hair. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?

Yes, you can make shrimp scampi without wine. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor. Some people also use a splash of lemon juice or a bit of white grape juice for a fruity alternative.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp cooks very quickly. They should turn pink and opaque when cooked through, usually within 1-2 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

How can I make the dish spicier?

To make the dish spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also try adding finely chopped fresh chili peppers.

Can I substitute olive oil with another oil?

You can substitute olive oil with another mild oil, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, but olive oil gives the dish a distinct flavor that complements the shrimp and garlic. Using butter or a combination of butter and oil also works well for richness.

How can I make shrimp scampi healthier?

To make this dish lighter, you can use less butter and olive oil, or swap for a low-fat version of butter. Using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of salt can also make the dish a bit healthier while maintaining flavor.