This Linguine Shrimp Scampi is a quick and tasty dish that everyone loves! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a buttery garlic sauce and served over perfect linguine pasta.
It’s so simple, you’ll want to make it all the time. I usually whip it up in under 30 minutes. Pair it with a nice salad, and dinner is ready! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Linguine Pasta: Linguni adds a lovely texture to the dish. You can substitute with spaghetti or fettuccine if needed. For a gluten-free option, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe, but you can use medium shrimp or even other seafood like scallops. Frozen shrimp work fine too—just thaw them first!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over the salt level. You can use salted butter, but remember to adjust the added salt. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds depth. If you don’t wish to use wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. You can also use a splash of lemon juice for flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a hint of spice. If you’re not a fan, you can leave them out or use a dash of black pepper instead.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp properly is crucial for this dish. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot but not smoking, which helps the shrimp cook evenly.
- Sauté shrimp for just about 2 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done. They will continue to cook slightly from residual heat even after they are removed.
Following these simple steps will help you achieve tender shrimp every time in your delicious Linguine Shrimp Scampi!
How to Make Linguine Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Linguine Shrimp Scampi takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or 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 it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (this usually takes about 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the cooked pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted and bubbly, add the shrimp. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it’s fragrant, but make sure it doesn’t burn! Next, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
4. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the lemon juice and, if you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes. Then, toss in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt into the sauce. This will give your sauce a rich, buttery flavor!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat well. If you find the sauce too thick at this point, you can add the reserved pasta water little by little until you achieve your desired consistency. Now, gently add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is smothered in that delicious sauce!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately, and if you love lemon, offer some wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze on top!
This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delightful and creamy Linguine Shrimp Scampi!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge, or if you’re short on time, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Substitute the White Wine?
Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. Fresh lemon juice can also add a nice tang in place of wine.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little splash of broth or pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and simply cook the shrimp and pasta when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to adjust your cooking time, as both shrimp and pasta cook very quickly!
