Are you ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor. With simple ingredients like shrimp, garlic, and butter, this meal is easy to make and hard to resist. Join me as I guide you through a step-by-step recipe, tips, and variations. Your taste buds will thank you for this gourmet experience right at home!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fresh Ingredients
– Zest and juice of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
Optional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
This dish shines with its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Linguine pasta gives a nice base. The shrimp adds protein and a touch of luxury. Unsalted butter creates a rich sauce, while garlic brings a warm aroma. Red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, perfect for flavor lovers.
Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish. They add a zesty note that balances the richness. Parsley adds color and freshness on top. If you want a cheesy finish, sprinkle some grated Parmesan. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste.
These ingredients work together for a delightful meal. Each bite bursts with flavor and comfort.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Linguine
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Make sure to add salt for flavor. Once the water boils, add 8 ounces of linguine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir the pasta occasionally to keep it from sticking. When the pasta is al dente, drain it in a colander. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water. It will help make the sauce creamy.
Sautéing the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the skillet. Once the butter melts, add 4 cloves of finely minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté the mixture for about 1 minute. Stir it constantly until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. This adds a great depth of flavor to your dish.
Cooking Instructions for Shrimp
Now, season 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and black pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on one side until they turn pink. Then flip the shrimp over and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. They are done when they are fully cooked and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Preparing the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Squeeze in the juice from 1 lemon and add its zest. Stir well to combine everything. Now, pour in the reserved pasta water and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will help the flavors meld together.
Combining Ingredients
Next, add the cooked linguine and the shrimp back into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together. Make sure the shrimp and linguine are well coated with the sauce. Taste it to see if you need more salt or pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Garnishing and Serving
Once all is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. If you like, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Serve this delightful dish hot. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a nice zesty kick. A light green salad goes well with this rich meal too.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensuring perfect linguine texture: To get the best texture, cook the linguine in salted water. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Stir the pasta often while it cooks. Follow the package instructions for timing. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite.
– Avoiding overcooked shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Cook them for only 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for pink color and opaque flesh. When the shrimp curl into a C shape, they are done.
Flavor Enhancements
– Suggestions for additional herbs or spices: You can add fresh basil or thyme for extra flavor. Chopped chives also work well. If you like a bolder taste, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika.
– Tips for adjusting heat level: To make the dish spicier, increase the red pepper flakes. Start with a little, taste, and add more if needed. You can also serve sliced jalapeños on the side.
Preparation Hacks
– Make-ahead tips: You can prep the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. Store them in the fridge. Just cook the linguine fresh when you are ready to eat. This keeps everything tasting great.
– Efficient kitchen tools: Use a large skillet to cook the shrimp and sauce together. A pasta pot with a strainer makes draining the linguine easy. A microplane is perfect for zesting lemons quickly.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change up the pasta in this dish. Try fettuccine or spaghetti for a twist. Each type gives a different bite and feel. If you want, you can swap the shrimp. Scallops or chicken work great too. Just adjust the cooking time based on your choice.
Dietary Modifications
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer a great taste and texture. If you need a dairy-free version, swap the butter for olive oil or vegan butter. You can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Flavor Twists
Want to add more color? Toss in some fresh spinach or sweet cherry tomatoes. They add great flavor and nutrients. You can also try different sauces. A splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce can change the dish entirely. Adding herbs like basil or thyme can give it a fresh twist too.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp and pasta fresh. It is best to eat the leftovers within three days. The flavors will still be nice, but freshness is key.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. This method helps the shrimp stay tender. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, but be cautious. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet for the best results.
FAQs
What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine?
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine is a simple yet tasty dish. It features juicy shrimp tossed with linguine pasta in a buttery garlic sauce. This dish shines with the zing of lemon and the warmth of red pepper flakes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them in cold water before cooking. It saves time and makes meal prep easy. Always check that the shrimp are peeled and deveined for the best results.
How can I make it spicier?
To spice up the dish, add more red pepper flakes. You can also include a splash of hot sauce. Adjust the heat to fit your taste. Remember to taste as you go for the best flavor.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine?
This meal pairs well with a light green salad or garlic bread. A crisp white wine also complements the flavors nicely. For an extra kick, serve lemon wedges on the side.
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. They should also curl into a C-shape. Avoid overcooking, as that makes them tough. Use a timer for perfect results.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep some parts ahead. Cook the pasta and shrimp first, then store them separately. Combine everything just before serving to keep it fresh. Enjoying this dish is best right after it’s made.
This blog post covered how to make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Linguine step by step. You learned about key ingredients, from linguine to fresh parsley. I shared useful tips to make cooking easy and fun. You can even tweak the recipe for special diets or flavor twists.
Now, you can enjoy this dish with confidence. Happy cooking!
