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Delicious Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta served in a bowl

Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

A quick, creamy, and one-pan dish that combines garlic, shrimp, and cream for a delightful weeknight dinner or cozy date night experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine noodles Cook until just shy of al dente.
  • 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella (shredded) For topping.
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth Substitute with broth if preferred.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (separated into two portions) Two tablespoons for shrimp and two for garlic.
For the Sauce
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic (finely minced) Essential for the garlic flavor.
  • 1 pound large shrimp (shells removed and deveined) Ensure shrimp are patted dry before cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest Adds freshness.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Juice from one lemon.
  • 1/4 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley (chopped) For garnishing.
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese Use half for blending into the sauce and half for topping.
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional) Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Or to taste.
  • Kosher salt To taste.
For Assembly
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for garnishing Sprinkle more on top before serving.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente—approximately 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of the butter. Pat the shrimp dry, season both sides with salt and black pepper, and place it in the skillet.
  2. Sear the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly golden. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sauté briefly for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  2. Pour in the wine (or broth), lemon juice, and zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Return the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to 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.
Baking
  1. Transfer the combined shrimp and pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan evenly across the top.
  2. Place the baking dish, uncovered, into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and develops a golden hue.
Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining parsley. Optionally, finish with an additional squeeze of lemon before serving hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. For a vegan option, substitute shrimp with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms, and use cashew cream or vegan cheese.