Introduction
Transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal is easier than you think! This High-Protein Shrimp Scampi over Pasta recipe is your ticket to a delicious, satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Forget takeout – this recipe is budget-friendly, family-approved, and packed with flavor. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones!
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly versatile, quick, and uses pantry staples you likely already have. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and elegant. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra protein!
Key Ingredients
🍤 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
🍝 1 lb pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work best)
🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🍷 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
🍋 2 tablespoons lemon juice
🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
🧀 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2️⃣ While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant (don’t let it brown!).
3️⃣ Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4️⃣ Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a minute, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce.
5️⃣ Stir in cooked pasta, reserved pasta water (if needed to loosen the sauce), parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6️⃣ Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used (use about 1 tablespoon).
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Heat Control
Medium heat is key for this recipe. Low heat will take too long to cook the shrimp and garlic, while high heat may burn the garlic before the shrimp is cooked. Keep a close eye on the pan and adjust the heat as needed.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on creamy, tender textures, you can add a crunch element by topping with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts before serving.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for extra brightness.
- If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth or even water can be used instead.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish isn’t typically gifted, but you could package up the components separately (cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce) in individual containers for a make-at-home gift.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the skillet with the garlic.
🌟 Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi: Increase the lemon juice to 3 tablespoons for a more pronounced lemony flavor.
🌟 Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
🌟 Shrimp Scampi with Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the skillet with the pasta during the last minute of cooking.
Troubleshooting
- Shrimp is overcooked: Don’t overcook the shrimp! Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Sauce is too thick: Add a little more pasta water or white wine to thin it out.
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce it.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- What kind of pasta is best? Linguine, spaghetti, and fettuccine are all great choices.
- Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the pasta and shrimp separately and combine them just before serving.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Shrimp Scampi over Pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Make it for your family tonight, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation on RateMyRecipes! Happy cooking!
Speedy Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Family Dinner Done Right
A quick and delicious shrimp scampi pasta dish that brings the flavors of garlic, lemon, and fresh shrimp to your dinner table in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sautu00e9 for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour the white wine into the skillet and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the lemon juice and zest.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained pasta and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for a complete meal.