Easy Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti
If you are craving a restaurant-style seafood pasta without spending hours in the kitchen, this Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti is the perfect solution.
Tender shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter, simmered with white wine and herbs, then tossed into a light, flavorful sauce that coats every strand of pasta. It feels elegant enough for a special dinner but comes together fast enough for a weeknight meal.
Fresh, buttery, and packed with flavor, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to make
This entire meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Light but satisfying
The garlic butter sauce is rich without being too heavy, while the shrimp keeps the dish fresh and flavorful.
Restaurant-quality at home
Simple ingredients combine to create a pasta dish that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant.
Perfect for any occasion
Serve it for date night, family dinner, or even a casual weekend meal.
Ingredients
Everything you need for a flavorful homemade shrimp scampi.
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¼ cup white cooking wine
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti
Step 1 – Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 – Cook the shrimp
Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3 – Sauté the onion and garlic
Add the remaining butter to the skillet.
Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly so it does not burn.
Step 4 – Build the sauce
Pour in the white wine and simmer until the liquid reduces by about half.
Stir in the chicken broth, oregano, parsley, and basil.
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes so the flavors combine.
Step 5 – Finish the dish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and mix everything together until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
Do not overcook the shrimp
Shrimp cook very quickly. Once they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat to keep them tender.
Use fresh garlic
Fresh minced garlic gives the sauce its signature flavor and aroma.
Save some pasta water
A splash of pasta water can help loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
Choose good-quality shrimp
Large or jumbo shrimp work especially well because they stay juicy and flavorful.
Fresh herbs make a difference
Fresh parsley and basil brighten the entire dish and add fresh flavor.
Easy Variations
Spicy Shrimp Scampi
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Creamy Version
Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Lemon Garlic Scampi
Add fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for extra brightness.
Vegetable-Packed Pasta
Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added color and texture.
Parmesan Shrimp Scampi
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs perfectly with simple sides.
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed asparagus
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the pasta from drying out.
Freezing
Shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month if needed.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti proves that a delicious seafood dinner does not need to be complicated.
With buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, fresh herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe delivers big flavor with very little effort.
Whether you are making dinner for guests or simply treating yourself to something comforting and delicious, this easy pasta dish is always a good idea.
