Scrimp Scampi Pasta

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is one of my favorite pastas. It is fast and flavorful and perfect for weeknight dinners. This version combines thick spaghetti with garlic-infused olive oil, buttery shrimp, and a splash of white wine for a light but rich sauce. Finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, the dish is balanced, savory, and full of bright, garlicky flavor. The whole meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal when you want something satisfying but not too heavy.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta

This dish is almost perfect because it is so simple. It has clean, quality ingredients and straightforward techniques. The garlic, butter, and olive oil form a silky base that coats each strand of pasta. Shrimp cooks quickly, and does a great job soaking up all that flavor.

Make sure to cook the shrimp just until it’s pink. That keeps the texture tender, and then we finish it with the remaining butter to add thickness to the sauce without needing cream or starch.

Flat-leaf parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese add a fresh and savory finish. Both balance the heavier notes from the butter and garlic. This dish is best served family-style, directly from the mixing bowl or a warm platter, so everyone gets a bit of sauce, shrimp, and pasta in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Quick to Make – Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Bold Garlic Flavor – Uses both fresh garlic and garlic powder for depth.
• Balanced Sauce – Butter, olive oil, and wine work together for a rich but light finish.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Familiar flavors that appeal to kids and adults.
• One-Pan Cooking – Shrimp and sauce cook together in a single skillet.

Pasta Primavera

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the grocery store or if you have all the ingredients you need for this? Check out this list! For the full ingredients list, including the amounts you’ll need, make sure to scroll to the bottom and view the recipe card.

Ingredients

• Peeled and Deveined Shrimp – Mild and tender, shrimp absorb the garlic-butter sauce quickly.
• Thick Spaghetti – Holds up well to the sauce and provides a satisfying texture.
• Fresh Garlic – Chopped fine, it infuses the oil and butter with deep flavor.
• Olive Oil – Adds body to the sauce and helps distribute flavor.
• Butter – Melts into the oil and creates a smooth, rich sauce.
• White Wine – Adds acidity and deglazes the pan, enhancing flavor complexity.
• Salt – Brings out the natural flavors in the shrimp and sauce.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts the garlic profile without overpowering.
• Onion Powder – Adds a subtle, sweet background note.
• Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth.
• Chopped Flat Parsley – Freshens the dish and adds color.
• Italian Seasoning – Blends herbs for a classic, savory backbone.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami and finishes the dish with a savory touch.

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How to Make Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Looking to see what you’re getting into here? Below is a general overview of the recipe steps. When you’re cooking, make sure to use the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full instructions.

1. Boil Pasta Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the spaghetti.
2. Prep Garlic and Shrimp: Finely chop garlic and season the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook Shrimp: In a large pan, melt olive oil and half the butter. Add garlic and cook until it starts to sizzle, then add shrimp. Sear both sides, add white wine, and cover briefly.
4. Finish Sauce: Remove lid, let rest briefly, then stir in remaining butter to thicken sauce.
5. Combine and Serve: Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and mix with shrimp and sauce. Top with parsley and Parmesan.

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FAQ

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

Can I reheat this?

Yes, reheat on low heat in a pan to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a little butter or olive oil to refresh the sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Cook the shrimp and sauce up to 2 hours ahead. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What can I substitute for wine?

Use chicken broth with a squeeze of lemon juice to mimic the acidity and moisture white wine provides.

Can I use a different pasta?

Linguine or fettuccine work well, but avoid thin pastas like angel hair. They don’t hold up to the sauce.

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Serve This With…

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp and tangy greens balance the richness of the dish.
• Grilled Asparagus – Adds texture and great grilled flavor to the meal.

This Shrimp Scampi Pasta is practical, flavorful, and easy to execute with everyday ingredients. It combines the richness of garlic butter with the brightness of white wine and fresh herbs, all tied together with hearty pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this dish is satisfying and unfussy. It’s just solid cooking with excellent results.

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