Shrimp Scampi Linguine is a timeless Italian-American pasta dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Juicy shrimp are quickly sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, brightened with fresh lemon juice, and tossed with perfectly cooked linguine. The result is a restaurant-quality meal that feels indulgent yet comes together in under 30 minutes.
This easy shrimp scampi linguine recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but impressive. With simple pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, pasta, and butter, you can create a dish that tastes elegant without requiring advanced cooking skills. The light wine-based sauce coats every strand of pasta while letting the shrimp shine.
One of the best things about shrimp scampi linguine is its versatility. It works beautifully as a casual family dinner, a romantic date-night meal, or even a special occasion entrée. You can keep it classic or customize it with extra garlic, red pepper flakes, or a splash of cream for a richer finish.
If you’re looking for a seafood pasta recipe that’s both flavorful and foolproof, this shrimp scampi linguine delivers every time. Fresh, bright, and satisfying, it’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again when you want something fast, fresh, and undeniably delicious.
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Shrimp Scampi Linguine
Shrimp Scampi Linguine is a classic Italian-American favorite featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic-lemon sauce, tossed with al dente linguine and finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but quick enough for a weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
12 oz linguine
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Get Recipe Ingredients
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Sauté the shrimp: Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in wine and simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Finish the dish: Stir in lemon zest and juice. Add cooked linguine and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently.
Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
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Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be just pink and opaque.
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Salt the pasta water generously; it’s key to well-seasoned pasta.
Variations
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Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
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Garlic Lovers: Add 1–2 extra cloves of garlic for a bolder flavor.
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Low-Carb Option: Serve the scampi over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
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Herb Boost: Add fresh basil or thyme along with the parsley for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
