If you’re looking for a recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and convenience, this Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta is the perfect choice!
With its luscious, creamy sauce and tender shrimp, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Marinade:
- 2 pounds raw, deveined shrimp
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus 2 tablespoons for cooking)
For the Sauce and Pasta:
- 1 pound linguine (cooked al dente, according to package directions)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 7 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 large shallot (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Shrimp
Start by placing the cleaned and deveined shrimp in a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and lemon pepper. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or adjust to taste). Drizzle in 2 tablespoons olive oil and mix well. Let the shrimp marinate for 15 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in batches and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta
While the shrimp is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook to al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
4. Make the Sauce
Using the same pan you cooked the shrimp in, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Next, stir in the seasonings: 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, paprika, and lemon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Add the zest and juice of one lemon, then stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes until it slightly thickens.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Grate in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and mix well. Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, tossing until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish the Dish
Return the cooked shrimp, along with any juices, to the pan. Sprinkle in the fresh parsley and toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately.
7. Garnish and Enjoy
Top each plate with extra chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your creamy, dreamy shrimp scampi pasta!
Tips for Success:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
- Reserve more pasta water than you think you’ll need—it’s great for adjusting the sauce.
This Creamy Shrimp Scampi Pasta is the perfect way to bring a touch of elegance to your dinner table without the hassle. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds in no time!