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Flavorful Shrimp Scampi Pasta for Two Easy Garlic Butter Recipe

shrimp scampi pasta for two - featured image

A quick and easy shrimp scampi pasta recipe for two featuring a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for cozy dinners or date nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 6 ounces linguine or spaghetti (use gluten-free pasta if preferred)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 6 ounces of linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to turn golden.
  4. Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 2 minutes until pink and opaque. Cook in batches if needed.
  5. Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  6. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted and sauce is silky. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Add drained pasta and chopped parsley to the skillet. Toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  8. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Dry shrimp thoroughly before cooking for better sear. Cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding. Reserve pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Adjust lemon juice to taste to balance richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, garlic butter pasta, easy shrimp recipe, quick dinner, pasta for two, seafood pasta, garlic butter sauce