Few dishes combine simplicity and elegance quite like Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti. This Italian-American classic is all about fresh flavors — succulent shrimp sautéed in a buttery, garlicky lemon-wine sauce served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s light yet rich, quick yet gourmet, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, a weeknight meal, or an impressive dish for guests, Shrimp Scampi never fails to impress.
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🇮🇹 A Bit of History
“Scampi” originally refers to langoustines, small lobster-like crustaceans common in Italy. When Italian immigrants brought the dish to America, they adapted it using shrimp, which was more widely available. The result: Shrimp Scampi, a buttery garlic shrimp dish served over pasta — an instant hit that’s now a restaurant and home-cooking favorite worldwide.
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🧄 Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
Salt (for pasta water)
For the Shrimp Scampi:
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
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🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water — this will help bind the sauce later. Set pasta aside.
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Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until they just turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside on a plate.
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Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
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Step 4: Combine and Toss
Return the shrimp to the pan along with the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta. Stir in lemon zest and parsley for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice.
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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.
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🧂 Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
Don’t overcook the shrimp — they cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.
Use quality ingredients. With such a simple recipe, fresh shrimp, good butter, and real lemon juice make all the difference.
Wine adds depth — if you don’t cook with alcohol, substitute with low-sodium chicken broth plus a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Add greens like baby spinach or asparagus for a fresh twist.
Spice it up! A pinch more red pepper flakes brings out beautiful warmth in the buttery sauce.
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🕒 Serving Ideas
Pair with a crisp white wine (Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay).
Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.
Garnish with lemon wedges so guests can add extra citrus brightness to taste.
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🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long to keep the shrimp tender.
Do not freeze — the sauce and shrimp texture don’t hold up well after thawing.
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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Dish
Ready in under 30 minutes
Combines the best of Italian and American cooking traditions
Light, fresh, and satisfying without being heavy
Ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions
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🍋 Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is a timeless classic that brings together the freshness of seafood, the richness of butter, and the brightness of lemon in one luxurious yet simple dish. Each forkful captures the perfect balance of garlic, wine, and tender shrimp — a taste that feels both comforting and refined.
It’s proof that with just a few quality ingredients, you can create restaurant-worthy flavor right in your own kitchen.
🦐 Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti — Elegant, Simple, and Absolutely Delicious!
