Shrimp Scampi With Angel Hair Pasta

Name: Shrimp Scampi With Angel Hair Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 8 ounces angel hair pasta; Salt, for water

Highlighted under: World Flavor Essentials

I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta, as it brings a burst of flavor that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and a splash of white wine, all tossed with delicate pasta, creates a dish that's both elegant and comforting. In just 30 minutes, I have a restaurant-quality meal on the table, which is perfect when time is short but taste is a priority. Believe me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:54:35.349Z

Making Shrimp Scampi at home is one of my favorite culinary adventures. I remember the first time I tried it; the aroma of garlic butter filled my kitchen, tempting everyone nearby. I learned that using high-quality shrimp and fresh ingredients really elevates the dish. A little squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up, making each bite a delightful experience.

Over the years, I’ve tried various methods for cooking the shrimp, but I find that sautéing them quickly in hot olive oil ensures they stay tender and juicy. This quick method helps lock in the flavors and keeps the pasta from becoming too heavy. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that I always love to serve!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich garlic and buttery flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly
Light and delicate angel hair pasta that absorbs the delicious sauce
Quick and easy preparation that impresses guests effortlessly

The Importance of Fresh Shrimp

Choosing fresh, high-quality shrimp is crucial for achieving vibrant flavor in this dish. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch, with a mild ocean scent. If possible, opt for shrimp that has been sustainably sourced, as it not only supports better practices but often has superior taste and texture. My favorite is using wild-caught shrimp; it has a richer flavor that complements the garlic and butter magnificently.

Before cooking, make sure to properly peel and devein the shrimp. This step ensures a cleaner bite and allows the shrimp to absorb the sauce flavors more effectively. If you're in a pinch, frozen shrimp is a suitable substitute; just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight, so it cooks evenly without becoming rubbery.

Mastering the Garlic and Butter Sauce

The garlic and butter sauce is the soul of the shrimp scampi. To create that perfect balance, I recommend using unsalted butter, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish more accurately. When melting the butter, keep the heat over medium; too high, and you risk burning the garlic, which can impart a bitter taste to the dish. Cook until the garlic is just fragrant but not browned, typically about a minute.

Incorporating the white wine is another pivotal moment—select a good-quality dry white wine that you would enjoy drinking. The wine not only adds acidity to balance the richness of the butter, but it also enhances the overall flavor profile. Allow it to simmer until reduced—this intensifies the flavors and creates a deliciously glossy sauce that clings to the angel hair pasta.

Perfecting the Pasta

Angel hair pasta is delightfully delicate, and it cooks very quickly, usually within 3-5 minutes. Be sure not to overcook it; al dente is the goal for maintaining the best texture. Also, remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce's consistency, making it silkier when you combine the pasta with the shrimp.

For those looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can substitute the angel hair pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti made from chickpeas. While this will slightly alter the dish's traditional flavor, it remains a tasty alternative when you're avoiding wheat. Serve the dish immediately after combining; the pasta tastes best fresh, and the sauce can lose its luster if it sits too long.

Ingredients

For the Scampi

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup white wine
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Pasta

8 ounces angel hair pasta
Salt, for water

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Prepare the Scampi

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Finish the Dish

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, letting it simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir in the remaining butter until melted and sauce thickens slightly. Toss in the cooked pasta and add reserved pasta water if necessary for a creamier texture.

Serve

Remove from heat, stir in the chopped parsley, and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes. Paying attention to the cooking time for the shrimp is crucial to avoid overcooking and ensuring they remain tender.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, I like to serve the shrimp scampi over a bed of freshly cooked angel hair pasta, garnished with bright parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side. The lemon not only adds a pop of color but also offers an extra squeeze of brightness to each bite. Pair this dish with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

If you want to elevate the meal further, consider sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. The nutty notes of cheese married with the garlicky sauce can transform this dish into a decadent experience.

Make-Ahead Tips

While this shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time for convenience. The shrimp can be marinated in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for an hour or up to overnight in the fridge, which enhances the flavors significantly. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as marinated shrimp will cook faster.

Regarding storage, if you have leftovers, store the shrimp and pasta separately in airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or more wine to keep the sauce from drying out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of white wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the angel hair pasta with a gluten-free version.

→ What sides pair well with Shrimp Scampi?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.