25-Minute Shrimp Scampi With Linguine Recipe

The Zesty Shrimp Scampi With Linguine Recipe You’ll Adore

Whipping up a delectable shrimp scampi with linguine takes just 25 minutes of your culinary magic.

Garlic and butter create an irresistible dance of flavors in this classic Italian-inspired dish.

Succulent shrimp swim in a light, zesty sauce that clings perfectly to tender pasta strands.

Mediterranean herbs spark excitement with every forkful of this quick weeknight wonder.

Simple ingredients blend seamlessly to produce a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.

Fresh parsley adds a bright, crisp finish that makes each bite sing.

Dive into this easy recipe and watch dinner become an instant celebration of flavor.

FAQs

  • What kind of white wine works best for this shrimp scampi?

A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay complements the shrimp and adds depth to the sauce without overpowering the delicate flavors.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw the frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water into the pan.

  • How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so watch them carefully during the 2-3 minute cooking time.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi With Linguine

  • Speedy Seafood Delight: Savor a restaurant-quality shrimp scampi that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner cravings.
  • Flavor-Packed One-Pan Wonder: Minimize dishes and maximize taste with this single-skillet recipe that combines tender shrimp, zesty garlic, and bright lemon in a mouthwatering sauce.
  • Customizable Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adaptable for different preferences by adjusting spice levels, swapping pasta types, or adding extra vegetables for a personalized dining experience.
  • Impressive Yet Approachable: Looks and tastes like a gourmet meal but requires minimal cooking skills, making it ideal for home cooks looking to elevate their dinner game without stress.

Ingredients Needed for Shrimp Scampi With Linguine

For the Main Proteins:
  • Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides a succulent and tender centerpiece for this classic Italian-inspired dish.
For the Pasta:
  • Linguine or Spaghetti: Traditional Italian pasta that serves as the perfect base for absorbing the flavorful sauce.
For the Liquids:
  • Dry White Wine: Adds depth and acidity to the sauce, creating a complex flavor profile.
  • Reserved Pasta Water: Helps to create a silky, emulsified sauce that coats the pasta and shrimp.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Provides a rich, smooth finish and additional depth of flavor.
For the Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic base that is fundamental to the scampi flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a subtle heat and slight kick to the dish.
  • Lemon Zest: Brings bright, citrusy notes that enhance the seafood's natural flavors.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, tangy brightness to balance the rich butter and wine sauce.
  • Parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish and vibrant green color.
For the Fats:
  • Butter: Creates a rich, smooth base for the sauce with a luxurious mouthfeel.
For the Seasonings:
  • Kosher Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and spiciness.
  • Flaky Sea Salt: Provides a crunchy texture and finishing flavor boost.

How to Cook Shrimp Scampi With Linguine

How to Cook Shrimp Scampi With Linguine

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Grab a big pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in salt and bring to a rolling boil.

Drop linguine into the bubbling water and cook until it’s just right – tender but with a slight bite. Before draining, scoop out some pasta water and set aside.

Step 2: Awaken Aromatic Flavors

Warm up a large skillet with a blend of butter and olive oil. Toss in finely chopped garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Let them dance and sizzle until the garlic turns a beautiful golden color and releases its magical aroma.

Step 3: Splash in Some Wine Magic

Crank up the heat and pour in a splash of crisp white wine.

Watch it bubble and reduce, concentrating those delicious flavors for about two minutes.

Step 4: Introduce Succulent Shrimp

Slide the shrimp into the skillet.

Season with a sprinkle of salt and a crack of black pepper. Let them cook until they turn from translucent to a beautiful opaque white, flipping once to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Combine the cooked pasta with the shrimp. Zest a lemon and squeeze its juice into the pan.

Add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce. Toss everything together with fresh chopped parsley.

Step 6: Create a Mouthwatering Presentation

Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Drizzle with a luxurious stream of extra virgin olive oil.

Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve alongside a crusty piece of bread for soaking up all the delicious sauce.

Helpful Tips for Shrimp Scampi With Linguine

  • Watch carefully and remove from heat when they turn opaque to maintain tender, juicy texture without becoming rubbery.
  • Toast garlic and red pepper flakes briefly in butter and oil to release intense aromatics and enhance overall taste profile.
  • Reserve pasta water to help create silky sauce that clings perfectly to linguine, ensuring ideal consistency and richness.
  • Finish dish with high-quality extra virgin olive oil and flaky sea salt to add luxurious final touch and restaurant-quality presentation.
  • Add fresh lemon juice and zest at the end to brighten flavors without overwhelming delicate shrimp and garlic notes.

Different Ways to Serve Shrimp Scampi Linguine

  • Mediterranean Fusion: Replace white wine with ouzo, add kalamata olives, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a Greek-inspired version.
  • Spicy Cajun Kick: Substitute white wine with chicken broth, add Cajun seasoning, and mix in andouille sausage chunks for a Louisiana-style transformation.
  • Creamy Herb Garden: Swap white wine with heavy cream, incorporate fresh basil and thyme, and finish with grated parmesan for a rich, herbaceous adaptation.
  • Coconut Tropical Escape: Use coconut milk instead of wine, add diced mango, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes, and garnish with chopped cilantro for a Caribbean-inspired rendition.

Great Pairings for Shrimp Scampi With Linguine

  • Crisp White Wine Companion: Pair the shrimp scampi with a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which will complement the dish's bright citrus and garlic notes with refreshing acidity.
  • Rustic Bread Dipping Delight: Select a crusty sourdough or rustic Italian bread to soak up the delicious garlic-wine sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience with textural contrast.
  • Zesty Side Salad Boost: Create a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to cut through the richness of the shrimp and provide a light, peppery counterpoint to the pasta.

Storing Shrimp Scampi and Linguine the Right Way

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the shrimp and pasta together to maintain moisture and flavor.

Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a tablespoon of water, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying out.

Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to restore moisture. Toss continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Skip freezing this dish, as pasta and shrimp can become tough and lose their delicate texture when thawed and reheated.

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25-Minute Shrimp Scampi With Linguine Recipe

25-Minute Shrimp Scampi With Linguine Recipe


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4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Culinary magic unfolds with this classic 25-minute shrimp scampi, where succulent seafood dances atop perfectly al dente linguine. Garlic-infused butter and white wine create a luxurious sauce that will transport diners straight to coastal Italian kitchens.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Starches:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) linguine or spaghetti

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (119 milliliters) dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chablis
  • 5 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 medium lemon, zested (about 2 teaspoons)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1/2 medium lemon)
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Garnish and Serving:

  • High-quality extra virgin olive oil
  • Flaky sea salt
  • Crusty bread

Instructions

  1. Prepare a large pot with boiling water, generously salted. Submerge linguine, cooking until tender yet firm (approximately 9 minutes). Set aside 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. In a spacious skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium temperature. Introduce minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until aromatic and lightly golden (roughly 1-2 minutes).
  3. Elevate heat to medium-high, deglaze pan with white wine. Allow liquid to concentrate, reducing volume by half within two minutes.
  4. Slide shrimp into the fragrant skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until translucent edges appear, approximately 2-3 minutes, gently turning for even heating.
  5. Transfer cooked pasta into skillet, incorporating lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and reserved pasta water. Vigorously toss ingredients using tongs, ensuring comprehensive coating.
  6. Scatter fresh parsley throughout the dish, creating vibrant color and herbal essence.
  7. Plate the shrimp scampi, drizzling additional extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with cracked black pepper and delicate flaky sea salt. Accompany with crusty artisan bread for a complete culinary experience.

Notes

  • Toast the garlic carefully to prevent burning, which can make the dish bitter and unpleasant.
  • Reserve pasta water as a secret weapon to create a silky, emulsified sauce that clings perfectly to the linguine.
  • Opt for large or jumbo shrimp to ensure they stay plump and tender during quick cooking without becoming rubbery.
  • Swap white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version that maintains the dish’s depth of flavor and complexity.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 521 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 57 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 33 g
  • Cholesterol: 215 mg
Nate Harper

Nate Harper

Founder & Recipe Curator

Expertise

Single-Recipe Development, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Seasonal Menu Planning, Culinary Storytelling, Home Kitchen Innovation

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Central Oregon Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and seasonal recipe creation.

Nate studied under experienced chefs who emphasized local sourcing, minimal waste, and building recipes from fresh, simple ingredients.


Nate Harper is the founder and creative force behind Make, Take, Bake. Raised in the wild beauty of Oregon’s high desert, Nate grew up surrounded by family gardens, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens that celebrated the seasons.
His early love for simple, honest food evolved into a professional passion when he attended Cascade Culinary Institute, where he sharpened his skills in creating recipes that are sustainable, satisfying, and made for everyday life.
Nate’s goal is to make cooking feel accessible, free of fuss, and full of flavor. He believes a single, thoughtfully built dish can stand alone, and sometimes even steal the show.

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