Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is just the ticket! It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but fancy enough to impress family and friends at gatherings. The combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and perfectly cooked linguine makes it an absolute favorite in my kitchen.

This recipe is special because it brings together the bold flavors of garlic and lemon with the tender sweetness of shrimp, all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: The delicious flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• Impressive presentation: It’s a showstopper! Serve it up, and your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: With simple swaps, you can make this recipe your own while keeping all its deliciousness intact.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need right here to whip up this delightful Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine.

For the Dish

• 1 lb Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 lb Linguine Pasta
• 1/2 cup Butter (unsalted)
• 6 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup Dry white grape juice
• 1/4 cup Chicken Broth (low sodium)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• to taste Salt
• to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using scallops or even chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a little heavy cream towards the end for a richer sauce.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro to change up the flavor profile.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Linguine

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Cooking pasta just right is crucial; it should be firm but not hard. Reserve some pasta water before draining—this will help create a silky sauce later!

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic; we want its delicious flavor without any bitterness!

Step 3: Add Shrimp and Seasonings

Next, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink (about 2-3 minutes per side). Pour in the dry white grape juice and chicken broth. This will deglaze your pan and lift all those tasty bits stuck on the bottom!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your shrimp are cooked through, toss in freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Lastly, mix in your drained linguine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Plate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine hot from the skillet. Garnish with extra parsley if you like. Now sit back and enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

Cooking is all about having fun, and with these helpful tips, you’ll create a perfect garlic butter shrimp scampi every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor profile of your dish significantly. It’s worth it to seek out the freshest ingredients you can find for that vibrant taste.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, usually in just 2-3 minutes. Keeping an eye on them will ensure they are tender and juicy rather than rubbery.

• Reserve pasta water: Before draining your linguine, save a cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed and add extra flavor.

• Adjust spice level to taste: If you’re unsure about how spicy you want your dish to be, start with a smaller amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more later!

• Toss with care: When mixing the shrimp and linguine, be gentle to avoid breaking up the pasta or overcooking the shrimp even further. A light toss will keep everything intact!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine

Presentation is key when serving up this delightful dish! Here are some ideas for making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a refreshing splash of acidity to their plate.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: For those who enjoy cheesy flavors, a light sprinkle of grated dairy-free cheese can enhance richness without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover buttery sauce. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the rich flavors of the scampi beautifully.
• Steamed Asparagus: The crisp-tender texture of asparagus complements the linguine nicely while adding a healthy touch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies (like bell peppers and zucchini) bring vibrant colors and additional nutrients to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine is not just a delicious meal; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it later in the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the shrimp scampi and linguine into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out.
• For microwave reheating, cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have some questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help you out.

Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute traditional linguine with gluten-free pasta. The cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions for best results.

How long does Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine take to prepare?

This recipe is quick and easy, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking for even seasoning and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Linguine! This dish is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor. Whether it’s date night or a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!