If you’re looking to impress with minimal fuss, look no further than Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti. This classic dish brings together plump, juicy shrimp with a garlicky lemon-butter sauce and perfectly cooked pasta for a combination that feels elegant but comes together quickly for busy weeknights or dinner parties. With just a handful of high-impact ingredients, you’ll achieve bold flavors and restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.

Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is the way just a few ingredients, handled correctly, transport you to the Italian coast. Every item here has a job to do, whether it’s lending color, texture, or that crave-worthy umami punch. Ready your pantry and let’s dive in:

Shrimp: Large, raw shrimp lend sweet flavor and tenderness; peel and devein for the best eating experience.
Spaghetti: Classic pasta shape that soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully—cook to al dente for just the right bite.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds fruity richness and helps the garlic release its aroma without burning.
Butter: Unsalted is best for controlling seasoning and creating a silky, luxurious sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Thinly sliced or minced, garlic is absolutely essential for building that classic scampi flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch adds a subtle kick, balancing the dish without overpowering it.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Brightens up the sauce, accentuating the shrimp’s natural sweetness with fresh acidity.
Dry White Wine: Use a crisp wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, for a depth that ties the whole dish together.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled at the end, parsley adds color and a burst of freshness.
Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget to season each layer for balanced, full flavors.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before you even think about turning on the heat, spend a few minutes prepping everything. Peel and devein the shrimp, mince the garlic, zest and juice the lemon, chop up that fresh parsley, and measure out your wine and oil. Having everything ready at your fingertips makes the process smoother and keeps the shrimp from overcooking while you scramble for last-minute items.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add the spaghetti. Give it an occasional stir and cook it until just al dente, about 1 minute less than the package instructions suggest. Save about a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—this liquid gold is perfect for adjusting your sauce’s consistency later.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a wide skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add the shrimp in a single layer and let them cook, undisturbed, for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remove them to a plate so they don’t overcook, but leave all those flavorful bits (fond) in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Scampi Sauce

Lower the heat and add the butter to your skillet. Toss in the garlic and red pepper flakes, gently stirring until the garlic is fragrant. Now pour in the wine and let it simmer a couple of minutes to reduce and concentrate those flavors. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, sprinkle in some zest, and season to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss it with tongs, adding pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce clings silkily to every strand. Return the shrimp (and any juices!) to the pan, and finish with a big shower of chopped parsley. Serve hot, making sure every plate gets plenty of sauce and shrimp.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti

Garnishes

Never underestimate the extra oomph that a handful of freshly chopped parsley gives to Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti. Add a lemon wedge on the side for extra zing, and a quick grating of fresh Parmesan (if that’s your style) brings salty, savory depth—just keep it light to let the shrimp shine.

Side Dishes

This pasta is lively enough to stand alone, but I love serving Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti with a crisp arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a basket of warm, crusty bread to mop up every last drop of sauce. A simple roasted vegetable medley also adds color and contrast without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try plating your Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti in shallow bowls, twirling the pasta into little nests and nestling shrimp on top. Or serve the pasta family-style on a big platter for a relaxed, festive atmosphere. For appetizer portions, spoon a small mound of scampi into individual ramekins or glasses—a showstopper for gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti (though I wouldn’t count on it!), allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to two days, though the shrimp are at their peak the first night.

Freezing

While pasta and shrimp can be finicky when frozen, you can store just the sauce for up to a month in the freezer, tightly sealed. For best results, the cooked shrimp and spaghetti are best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can change their texture.

Reheating

To revive leftover Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti, heat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth. Toss frequently and warm just until everything is hot—shrimp are delicate and appreciate a gentle touch!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work beautifully for this recipe—just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat dry to avoid excess water in your sauce.

What’s the best wine for scampi sauce?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or even Chardonnay brings vibrant acidity and depth without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Can I substitute spaghetti with another pasta?

Absolutely! Linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair are all fantastic with Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti; just use a shape that lets the sauce cling.

Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly so—the pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth, but you can easily adjust to suit your taste or omit entirely for a milder version.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Swap the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta brand and double-check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I promise that once you try Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti, it’ll become your go-to for entertaining or treating yourself to a special meal at home. It’s bright, succulent, and shockingly easy—give it a place at your table and watch it win over even the pickiest eaters!

Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Recipe