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Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

A creamy and garlicky pasta dish featuring fresh shrimp in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, all made in one pan for easy cleanup.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Shrimp
  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine noodles Use your favorite pasta shape.
  • 1 pound large shrimp (shells removed and deveined) Make sure the shrimp are well-thawed if using frozen.
Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (separated into two portions) Two tablespoons for cooking the shrimp and two for the sauce.
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic (finely minced) Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth Choose broth for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Juice from one lemon approximately 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice adds bright flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest Zest enhances the lemon flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes Optional, for a hint of spice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adjust according to taste.
Finishing Touches
  • 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella (shredded) For topping the dish.
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese First half mixed with sauce, the rest for topping.
  • 1/4 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley (chopped) For garnish and flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Used for cooking shrimp.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente, approximately 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
  1. Heat the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Place the shrimp in the skillet and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly golden. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté briefly for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  2. Pour in the wine (or broth), along with the lemon juice and zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  3. Return the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat it in the garlic-butter mixture. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan and half of the chopped parsley. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.
Baking
  1. Transfer the combined shrimp and pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan evenly across the top.
  2. Place the baking dish, uncovered, into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and develops a golden hue.
Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining parsley. Optionally, finish with an additional squeeze of lemon before serving hot.

Notes

Don’t overcook the shrimp: You want them tender and juicy, not rubbery. Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor—powder won’t cut it. For a kick, add more crushed red chili flakes. Swap out the pasta type for whole wheat or gluten-free versions if you prefer. Fresh lemon zest really brightens the dish, so don’t skimp on it. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to three months.