Description
A fast and flavorful weeknight pasta dish featuring juicy shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, and bright lemon zest. This Easy Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta is pure comfort in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 ounces Fettuccine or Linguine
- 4 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Pasta Water, reserved
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, season shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Assemble the Dish: Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Cook to Perfection: Lower heat, add remaining butter and cream to the same skillet. Stir in Parmesan and lemon juice. Simmer until thickened slightly. Add reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Finishing Touches: Return shrimp to skillet along with cooked pasta. Toss gently to coat. Finish with lemon zest and parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate in warm bowls, top with extra Parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Cook shrimp quickly to avoid overcooking and toughness.