When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? If creamy goodness mixed with colorful veggies and succulent shrimp sounds perfect to you, then you’re in for a treat! Our Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is the ultimate dish that brings together tender spaghetti, juicy shrimp, and a splash of bright lemon goodness. Imagine a cozy evening where each bite tastes like a warm hug. The fresh garlic mingles with rich butter, creating an aroma that fills your kitchen and makes your heart happy.
This dish is not just delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. With fresh asparagus adding a lovely crunch and vibrant green color, it’s almost like having a little garden on your plate. And guess what? It’s creamy without any actual cream! Yes, you read that right. Lemon juice and butter lend a richness that’s satisfying yet lighter than traditional cream sauces.
Whether you’re looking to impress a dinner guest or simply treat yourself after a long day, this pasta is here to save the day. Pack it for meal prep or enjoy it fresh from the pot. Trust me, you’ll be returning for seconds (or thirds!). Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is everything you could dream of. It’s creamy, easy, and has that cozy feeling that makes you want to curl up with a bowl on the couch. Each forkful bursts with flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Here’s a quick summary of why this dish will win your heart:
- Time-Saver: It takes only about 30 minutes to make—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates that delicious restaurant feel right at home.
- Pantry-Friendly: Many ingredients can be found in your pantry or fridge already.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and enjoy the flavors throughout the week.
- Dietary Notes: Rich in protein and a good veggie boost from asparagus.
Benefits
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Rich, satisfying flavors
- Packed with protein from shrimp
- Colorful veggies add nutrients
- Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta Recipe
- Spaghetti (1/2 lb) – A classic base that holds all the flavors together.
- Asparagus (1 lb, trimmed and cut into 2″ pieces) – Adds crunch and a vibrant green touch.
- Unsalted butter (3 Tbsp, divided) – Creates the rich, silky sauce.
- Olive oil (3 Tbsp, divided) – Helps to sauté the shrimp and asparagus.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Gives an aromatic punch.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp) – Just the right hint of heat.
- Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined) – Juicy, tender bites that take this dish to the next level.
- Fine sea salt (1 1/4 tsp, divided) – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp) – Adds a touch of warmth.
- Lemon zest (1 Tbsp) – Brightens the dish with citrusy notes.
- Fresh lemon juice (1/4 cup) – Balances richness with tanginess.
- Fresh parsley (1/3 cup, finely chopped) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Freshly grated parmesan – A perfect topping that brings it all together.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Phase 1 – Prep
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the spaghetti, stirring occasionally until cooked al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Prepare the Asparagus: While the pasta cooks, wash and trim the asparagus, then cut it into 2-inch pieces.
- Mince the Garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves, making sure they are finely chopped to release all that wonderful flavor.
- Get the Shrimp Ready: If your shrimp are frozen, make sure to thaw them beforehand. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- Sauté Asparagus: In a large skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Cook the Shrimp: Push the asparagus to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining olive oil, followed by the minced garlic and shrimp. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink (about 3-4 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Add Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked spaghetti but save some pasta water. Add the spaghetti to the skillet with the shrimp and asparagus. Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining butter. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Finish with Parsley: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for freshness.
- Plate it Up: Serve the pasta in bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan.
- Enjoy: Sit down, dig in, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Watch the Heat: When cooking garlic, keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning—it should be fragrant but not browned.
- One Swap: For a lighter dish, try using whole wheat spaghetti instead.
- Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Quick Reheat: To reheat, simply add a splash of water in a skillet over medium-low heat and stir until warm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly; if you cook them too long, they’ll become rubbery and tough. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
Another mistake is not seasoning enough. Salt is your friend! Generously season the pasta water and dish itself; it helps the flavors shine.
Lastly, skipping the reserved pasta water can lead to a dry dish. That little bit of starchy water can help create a lovely emulsion that coats your pasta beautifully.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free pasta for the spaghetti.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Herbal Twist: Mix in fresh basil or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Cooking Method: Try using an Instant Pot for a one-pot version if you prefer!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Best Pairings: Enjoy it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a light white wine.
Toppings & Garnishes: Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest, extra parsley, or some red pepper flakes to your taste.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta is great for meal prep. Just make it in advance and store it in individual portions.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Freezing
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. The texture of the shrimp might change, so it’s recommended to adapt the recipe as a fresh meal primarily.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave it in a bowl while stirring every 60 seconds until warm. Add a splash of water if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used! Just make sure to thaw them beforehand.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
You can add a bit of extra butter and use pasta water to create a creamy sauce without adding cream.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you have a big enough skillet to accommodate everything as it cooks.
How to fix a too-thick sauce?
Simply add a splash of pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
Enhance your cooking routine with this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta recipe. It’s creamy, comforting, and super easy to make. If you try it, don’t forget to rate, comment, or check out our other recipes for more flavorful adventures!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and add the spaghetti, stirring occasionally until cooked al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- While the pasta cooks, wash and trim the asparagus, then cut it into 2-inch pieces.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- If your shrimp are frozen, thaw them and peel and devein if not already done.
- In a large skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat and sauté the asparagus pieces for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Push the asparagus to one side of the skillet, add the remaining olive oil, garlic, and shrimp, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink (3-4 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti, saving some pasta water, and add it to the skillet with shrimp and asparagus. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining butter. If the dish is dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Plate the pasta in bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan.
- Enjoy every delicious bite!