If you’re craving a dish that sings with bright, buttery flavors while feeling indulgent yet light, this Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe will quickly become your go-to. It’s a perfect marriage of tender shrimp bathed in a garlicky lemon-white-wine sauce, all twirled around al dente linguine. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or something special for guests, the simplicity and elegance of this dish make it a timeless favorite that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various raw ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. On the left side, a block of cream cheese wrapped in paper is partially open, next to a woman's hand holding a bowl filled with raw peeled shrimp, which are grayish with a slight shine. Nearby, two bright yellow lemons rest side by side. A clear glass bowl filled with golden olive oil is placed centrally, behind which stands a bunch of fresh green parsley. To the right, there is a clear rectangular block of butter with blue and white wrapping. Long uncooked spaghetti pasta, golden-yellow in color, is laid flat toward the right side. Small piles of spices and seasoning, including crushed red pepper flakes and white coarse salt, are scattered in small white bowls. Behind them, an unopened yellow cheese block sits on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each item plays a vital role whether it’s building layers of flavor, contributing texture, or adding a pop of freshness that keeps the dish lively.

12 oz linguine: The classic pasta that holds the luscious sauce beautifully with its perfect thickness.
1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined: Juicy and tender, shrimp are the star protein offering a subtle sweetness.
3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and that silky, luxurious mouthfeel essential to scampi.
2 tbsp olive oil: Balances the butter and keeps the shrimp from sticking, while contributing a fruity note.
4 garlic cloves, minced: The aromatic backbone that infuses the dish with a deep, savory punch.
½ cup dry white wine (or broth): Brings acidity and brightness that elevates the sauce to restaurant-quality finesse.
Juice of 1 lemon: A fresh citrus zing that cuts through the butter’s richness beautifully.
¼ cup chopped parsley: Adds vibrant color and a fresh herbal finish that wakes up the palate.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning that enhances every flavor note.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until just al dente. Be sure to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid is the secret to marrying the sauce and noodles together perfectly in later steps.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with olive oil, creating a rich base. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned — this step unlocks the garlicky aroma that defines classic shrimp scampi. Next, add the shrimp and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful opaque pink and develop a slight caramelized edge.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the dry white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2 minutes, reducing slightly so the flavors intensify and the sauce thickens just enough to coat every noodle and shrimp delightfully.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the drained linguine to the skillet and toss it vigorously with the shrimp and sauce. If the sauce seems too thick or the pasta looks dry, splash in a little of the reserved pasta water — it’s a brilliant trick for silky, perfectly sauced linguine that clings lovingly to every bite.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor right before serving. Serve the dish immediately so you can enjoy the luxurious textures and bright flavors at their peak.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe

A white bowl filled with a large serving of spaghetti pasta mixed with cooked shrimp. The pasta strands are light yellow with a smooth texture, tangled and layered evenly throughout the bowl. Scattered throughout are several shrimp, pale pink with a slightly curled shape, nestled within the pasta. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled across the dish, adding a touch of color contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is classic, but you can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra savory note or red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. A lemon wedge on the side lets guests add an extra citrus zing to brighten the dish even more.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe shines as a main dish but also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a vinaigrette or roasted asparagus for a crisp, earthy contrast. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is fantastic for mopping up every last bit of the garlicky sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, serve the scampi over a bed of leafy arugula or baby spinach to integrate greens seamlessly into the dish. Alternatively, plate the linguine in nest shapes for a refined look and place the shrimp artistically on top with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to highlight the dish’s natural shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce and pasta together to allow the flavors to meld overnight but know that shrimp may firm up a bit as they chill. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Freezing

Because shrimp and cooked pasta have delicate textures, freezing this dish is not recommended for the best taste and texture. If you must freeze, store sauce and pasta separately, then thaw and recombine gently to maintain quality.

Reheating

To warm leftovers, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make shrimp rubbery and pasta mushy. Reheat until just warmed through, preserving the bright flavors and silky sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce. Fresh is ideal, but well-prepared frozen shrimp works wonderfully.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, a good quality chicken or vegetable broth makes an excellent substitute, adding savory depth without the alcohol. Just keep the same quantity as called for in the recipe.

Is Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe gluten-free?

Not as is, since linguine contains gluten. However, you can swap in gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a delicious low-carb and gluten-free alternative that still pairs beautifully with the scampi sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Lightly sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus spears can be added toward the end of cooking for a touch of color and nutrition that complements the shrimp and garlic flavor.

How do I avoid shrimp becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp quickly over medium heat just until they turn opaque pink, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Overcooking is the main culprit for rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on timing for tender, juicy results.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi with Linguine Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create an extraordinary meal that feels indulgent but surprisingly easy. Once you make it, you’ll find it hard to resist repeating this delicious combination of buttery garlic shrimp and perfectly coated pasta. Don’t hold back — dive in and enjoy this personal favorite that’s sure to delight your family and friends!