Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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)

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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.

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American