Shrimp Scampi With Angel Hair Pasta

Name: Shrimp Scampi With Angel Hair Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 ounces angel hair pasta; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and black pepper to taste

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I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi With Angel Hair Pasta, as it brings together fresh ingredients for a delightful meal. The juicy shrimp have a beautiful garlic lemon flavor that pairs perfectly with the light texture of angel hair pasta. I find this dish to be both elegant and simple, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Preparing it takes just a few minutes, but the flavor is anything but ordinary, showcasing a restaurant-quality experience right in my kitchen.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-02-28T08:21:36.318Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Scampi, I discovered the magic of balancing garlic, butter, and lemon—a combination that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The key is to sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. Pairing this with angel hair pasta allows the sauce to cling beautifully, creating a pleasant and flavorful harmony in every bite.

Over time, I’ve honed my technique, focusing on fresh parsley and a hint of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Trust me, letting the pasta soak up the sauce for a minute before serving transforms the dish! It's a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic and lemon aroma
Quick preparation for busy nights
Comforting yet elegant for any occasion

Perfecting Your Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires precision due to its quick cooking time. I recommend starting to cook the pasta only after you've prepared your shrimp ingredients. This way, the pasta can be drained just before adding it to the sauce, ensuring that it stays fresh and retains a perfect al dente bite. Remember, if overcooked, angel hair can become mushy, so keep a close eye on the clock—usually about 3-5 minutes is ideal.

To enhance the flavor of the pasta, consider adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water. This step infuses the pasta with taste as it cooks, setting a solid foundation for the entire dish. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also toss in a dash of olive oil or a sprig of fresh herbs to the water for an extra layer of aroma.

Flavor Building with Garlic and Butter

The rich garlic and butter combination is at the heart of this dish, providing a luxurious sauce that clings to both the shrimp and the pasta. It's essential to monitor your heat level during sautéing; medium heat allows the garlic to become fragrant without burning, which would impart a bitter flavor. Sauté just until golden and aromatic, about a minute, before adding the shrimp.

Now, the shrimp is where you can really play with texture. I suggest using large shrimp, as they hold up well to cooking and provide a satisfying bite. Make sure to avoid crowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature and lead to steaming rather than a nice, seared exterior. If you have too many shrimp, cook them in batches.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once prepared, this dish is best enjoyed immediately while the shrimp are still juicy, and the pasta is warm. For a beautiful presentation, plate the pasta first, then nestle the shrimp on top, and generously drizzle with the buttery sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s aroma, making it visually appealing and fragrant.

If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to create steam and prevent drying out. As a fun variation, feel free to add seasonal vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or asparagus, into the mix for a refreshing crunch.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 ounces angel hair pasta
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the shrimp until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Combine and Serve

Once the shrimp is cooked, add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the shrimp.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a critical role, particularly the shrimp. Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp can make a vast difference in taste; avoid shrimp that has a strong fishy odor. When choosing shrimp, opt for varieties that are sustainably caught, as this ensures freshness and better flavor. If you happen to come across large, sustainably sourced shrimp, don’t hesitate to try them.

The butter not only contributes a creamy texture but also elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish. For those looking to adopt a lighter option, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil, which still creates a delightful sauce but with a different flavor nuance. Additionally, using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content better, especially since the shrimp and pasta also require seasoning.

Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic shrimp scampi is delightful on its own, feel free to get creative with additional ingredients. For a touch of brightness, consider adding halved cherry tomatoes or leafy spinach during the last minute of cooking. This not only enhances the dish's flavor but also adds color and nutrition, making your meal more appealing and balanced.

If you’re looking for a twist on the traditional dish, swap out the angel hair for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options. Both choices provide their own unique textures and flavors. Whole wheat pasta offers a nuttier taste and will hold up nicely against the rich sauce, while gluten-free options can cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common challenge when making shrimp scampi is undercooking the shrimp. To ensure they are perfectly cooked, watch for their color change; opaque and pink means they are ready. If you find them still translucent, give them an extra minute or two based on their size. Trust your judgment as you continue to sauté them; they should curl slightly but not tightly to indicate doneness.

Another issue can arise with the sauce being too oily or greasy. If this happens, balance the flavor by adding a small amount of lemon juice or a splash of white wine, which can cut through the richness and add brightness. The acidity helps to round out the dish, making each bite more enjoyable without compromising on the core flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What can I serve with shrimp scampi?

Garlic bread and a simple salad make excellent side dishes.

→ Is there a substitute for angel hair pasta?

Yes, linguine or spaghetti can also work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use less butter and substitute with olive oil, or serve with zucchini noodles instead of pasta.