creamy shrimp scampi pasta recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best creamy shrimp scampi pasta recipe

I have been making this creamy shrimp scampi pasta for years and it is always a hit in my house. My kids ask for it at least once a week and my husband says it is better than any restaurant version we have tried. The best part is that it comes together in about 30 minutes so it works perfectly for busy weeknights but it is also fancy enough to serve when we have guests over for dinner.

This recipe gives you all the classic garlic butter and lemon flavors of traditional scampi but with a rich creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta. The shrimp are cooked just right so they stay tender and juicy. I love that I can get a good amount of protein from the shrimp and the cream sauce is made with real ingredients so I feel good about serving it to my family. It is a comforting meal that fills everyone up without being too heavy.

Whether you need a quick dinner after a long day or something special for a birthday or holiday this creamy shrimp scampi pasta delivers every time. It is one of those recipes that makes everyone at the table happy and that is the best feeling for any mom.

Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta

4.8 from 1023 votes

A rich and creamy twist on classic shrimp scampi with garlic butter sauce and tender shrimp over pasta. This dish comes together quickly for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz linguine or spaghetti
1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Shrimp and Sauce

1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
7Add the cooked pasta and the shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
8Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Chefs knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 240mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Make sure not to overcook the shrimp or they will become tough. For extra flavor, add a pinch of lemon zest along with the lemon juice.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Works

This creamy shrimp scampi pasta is a reliable recipe that works for any night of the week or for special gatherings with family and friends. It is quick to make, full of flavor, and always gets compliments at the table. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work fine. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.

2. What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth with a squeeze of lemon juice instead of white wine. The flavor will be a little different but still good.

3. How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat on low when adding the cream and do not let it boil. Stir gently and add the Parmesan gradually to help the sauce stay smooth.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Yes, use a dairy free butter substitute and full fat coconut cream or a dairy free heavy cream alternative. Omit the Parmesan or use a dairy free cheese.

5. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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