There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty pasta dish, especially when it’s infused with the succulent flavors of shrimp, garlic, and a rich creamy sauce. I whipped up this Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta during a cozy evening at home, aiming to recreate the restaurant vibes we all miss. The moment I seared the shrimp in butter and fragrant garlic, my kitchen was filled with a mouthwatering aroma that could charm even the most discerning foodie.
What makes this dish stand out is its perfect balance of flavors—zesty lemon, a hint of heat from the red pepper flakes, and the richness of melted cheese all come together in a harmonious embrace. Whether you’re preparing an intimate dinner for two or whipping up a family feast, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. With just 40 minutes from pot to plate, you’ll impress your loved ones without a hint of stress. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation!
Why is Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta a Must-Try?
Deliciously indulgent, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience right at home. Simplicity meets elegance with easy-to-follow steps, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Flavor-packed with zesty lemon and savory garlic cream sauce, it’s a crowd pleaser for family dinners or date nights. Quick preparation ensures you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying, all in just 40 minutes. Versatile enough to pair with your favorite salads or crusty bread, this pasta dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen! Dive into your new favorite with some helpful tips in our pasta guide.
Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful dish!
For the Pasta
- Dried spaghetti or linguine noodles – These noodles provide the perfect base for the rich sauce.
- Kosher salt – Generously season your boiling water to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
For the Shrimp
- Large shrimp, shells removed and deveined – Fresh shrimp brings sweetness and a tender texture to the dish.
- Unsalted butter – Adds a creamy richness essential to this Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Personalize the seasoning to suit your taste.
For the Sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil – A flavorful fat that enhances the sautéing experience.
- Fresh garlic, finely minced – The star flavor component infusing the dish with incredible aroma.
- Crushed red chili flakes (optional) – Add a touch of heat to balance the creaminess, if desired.
- Dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth – Choose between these for a depth of flavor in the sauce.
- Juice and finely grated lemon zest from one lemon – The citrus brightness elevates the entire dish.
For the Cheese
- Low-moisture mozzarella, shredded – Melts beautifully and adds a delightful gooey texture.
- Finely grated Parmesan cheese – Brings a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the pasta.
For Garnish
- Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness on top.
Now, gather these ingredients and get ready to savor a homemade meal that brightens any evening!
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta
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Boil a large pot of well-salted water. Once it’s at a rolling boil, add the pasta. Cook until just shy of al dente—about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry, then season both sides with salt and black pepper. Sear the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until they’re opaque and lightly golden. Transfer the shrimp to a separate plate.
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Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in the wine (or broth), followed by the lemon juice and zest. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
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Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to thoroughly 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 to combine.
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Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan evenly over the top.
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Bake the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and turns golden brown.
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Garnish with the remaining parsley once it’s out of the oven. Optional: Add an extra squeeze of lemon before serving hot for an added zest!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta components are perfect for meal prep, helping you save time on busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the shrimp can be seasoned and cooked in advance; just refrigerate them until you’re ready to combine everything. To maintain quality, keep the garlic-butter sauce separate until just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the pasta and shrimp in the sauce, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore the creamy texture. Finish it off by baking with the cheeses for that delightful golden topping!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the pasta before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it’ll last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the pasta in a baking dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Maintain moisture by covering with foil for the first part of reheating.
Serving Tip: Add a little extra cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon after reheating to brighten the flavors of your Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta.
What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing this flavorful pasta dish with delicious accompaniments that bring out its best.
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Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the classic! Crispy garlic bread offers a crunchy, buttery contrast that complements the creamy sauce.
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Caesar Salad: A light, tangy Caesar salad brightens each bite, balancing the richness of the shrimp and cream.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus adds a fresh, earthy flavor and vibrant color to your plate, enhancing presentation.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing end, serve lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate. Its zesty sweetness harmonizes perfectly with the meal.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the wine used in the pasta, creating a matching flavor profile.
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Steamed Broccoli: Adding this nutrient-rich vegetable introduces a lovely crunch, soaking up the delicious garlic and butter sauce well.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Finish off your meal with a slice of this sweet treat. The caramelized pineapple adds a tropical twist that brightens your evening.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta
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Perfect Pasta: Always cook your pasta just shy of al dente; it will continue cooking in the sauce and absorb flavors beautifully.
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Pat the Shrimp Dry: Make sure to pat your shrimp dry before seasoning. This ensures a nice sear, enhancing flavor and texture.
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Simmering Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly reduced. This step intensifies the flavors, making your Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta truly delicious.
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Cheese Melting: For the best cheese pull, use low-moisture mozzarella. Be generous but avoid overloading—too much cheese can make it greasy.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the dish. Don’t skip it; it makes a world of difference!
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Taste as You Go: Always taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference to ensure the best flavor in every bite.
Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that will elevate your Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta, making it uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta like rice or chickpea noodles for a flavorful alternative that accommodates dietary needs.
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Low-Carb: Substitute traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, nutrient-packed version.
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Creamy Vegan: Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and replace butter and cheese with cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a plant-based delight.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance, or add diced jalapeños for an extra layer of spice that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Herbed Goodness: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or dill for a fresh explosion of flavor, along with the parsley, to make each bite even more fragrant and delightful.
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Seafood Medley: Enhance the dish by incorporating scallops or crab meat along with the shrimp, adding luxurious layers of flavor and texture.
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Citrus Twist: For a burst of brightness, add the zest of an orange or lime in addition to the lemon, or try a splash of orange juice in the sauce for a citrusy surprise.
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Cheesy Delight: Play with different cheese options like fontina or gouda for a distinctive flavor; just remember to adjust the quantity to prevent greasiness.
Each variation invites you to create a personalized experience while enjoying the comfort of this beloved dish. Enjoy the magic of customizing your culinary creation!
Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for shrimp that are firm and translucent, with a fresh, briny smell. If you’re buying frozen shrimp, check that they feel solid and don’t have frost or ice crystals, as this indicates they’ve been thawed and refrozen. I often opt for shrimp labeled as “wild-caught” for the best flavor, but farm-raised shrimp can also work if sustainably sourced.
How should I store leftovers of Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to help maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Stirring occasionally will ensure even heating.
Can I freeze Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, freeze the pasta before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
What can I do if my shrimp are rubbery after cooking?
Very! Rubberiness often comes from overcooking shrimp. To fix this, you can try slicing the shrimp into smaller pieces and incorporating them back into the dish with a bit of additional liquid, like broth or cream. Ensure you monitor cooking times closely in the future—shrimp only need around 2 to 3 minutes per side to achieve that lovely, tender finish.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Certainly! For those allergic to shellfish, simply omit the shrimp and consider replacing it with sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken for a different twist. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta, which will also work beautifully with this sauce. Enjoy without worry inclusively!
Indulge in Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil a large pot of well-salted water. Once it's at a rolling boil, add the pasta. Cook until just shy of al dente—about 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat the shrimp dry, then season both sides with salt and black pepper. Sear the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until they're opaque and lightly golden. Transfer the shrimp to a separate plate.
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in the wine (or broth), followed by the lemon juice and zest. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to thoroughly 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 to combine.
- Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and turns golden brown.
- Garnish with the remaining parsley once it’s out of the oven. Optional: Add an extra squeeze of lemon before serving hot for an added zest!