Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine is the perfect choice. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, then tossed with perfectly cooked linguine for a meal that feels restaurant-worthy yet is simple enough for a busy weeknight.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
Packed with Flavor – Garlic, butter, lemon, and herbs create a vibrant sauce.
Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh shrimp.
Perfect for Entertaining – Elegant enough to serve guests but easy to prepare.
Family Favorite – A dish that both kids and adults will devour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off, your choice)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
• ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (for extra depth without alcohol)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Linguine:

• 8 oz linguine pasta
• Salt for boiling water
• 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking)

For Garnish:

• Extra chopped parsley
• Lemon wedges
• Grated parmesan (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Tongs or pasta fork
• Zester or grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and toss to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Transfer shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
Add butter and let it melt.
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits.
Add lemon juice and zest, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce
Add the drained linguine directly into the skillet with the sauce.
Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Add the shrimp back to the skillet and stir gently to combine.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve with lemon wedges and parmesan if desired.
Enjoy immediately while warm.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi Linguine
Use Fresh Shrimp – They cook quickly and offer the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook – Shrimp become rubbery if overdone. Just 1–2 minutes per side is enough.
Save Pasta Water – It helps emulsify the sauce and make it cling beautifully to the pasta.
Add Veggies – Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini can add color and nutrients.
Double the Sauce – If you love extra saucy pasta, consider increasing the butter and broth slightly.

Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the garlicky butter sauce.
Simple Green Salad – Balances the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts on the side.
Chilled Sparkling Water with Lemon – Refreshing and palate-cleansing.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Avoid freezing, as the texture of the shrimp and pasta may suffer.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
   Vegetable broth works great. You can also use pasta water for a lighter version.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Yes, use a dairy-free butter alternative, and skip the parmesan.
4. How do I make it spicier?
   Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
5. Can I substitute linguine with other pasta?
   Absolutely! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even angel hair pasta work well.

Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine brings together the richness of garlic butter, the brightness of lemon, and the savory delight of tender shrimp—all in one pan. It’s a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight and bring a little coastal comfort to your table!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 680mg

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