Shrimp Scampi Pasta
Can I use a different pasta instead of capellini?

Absolutely. Capellini is light and delicate, but spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair pasta also work well.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking so the shrimp sear instead of steaming.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s not recommended, shrimp pasta is always best served fresh.

Shrimp Scampi Capellini

Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Wife with the Knife
This Shrimp Scampi Capellini is one of those dinners that never disappoints. Tender shrimp are tossed with delicate capellini in a silky garlic butter sauce with white wine, lemon, and fresh parsley. It’s bright, buttery, garlicky, and just a little spicy. It’s a classic for a reason.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp peeled, deveined, and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz (340g) capellini pasta
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter divided
  • 5-6 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 small shallot finely minced
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes or more to taste
  • ½ cup dry white wine Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
  • 2 tbsp seafood stock or chicken stock
  • 1 large lemon Zested
  • 1 large large lemon juiced
  • ¼–½ cup reserved pasta water as needed
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Extra lemon wedges for serving
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing
  • ½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano freshly grated, optional
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook the capellini until just shy of al dente according to package directions.
  • Reserve at least ½ cup pasta water before draining.
  • Pat the cleaned shrimp dry, season with salt and black pepper, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 30–45 seconds per side, just until they begin turning opaque.
  • Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter.
  • Add the shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
  • Add the white wine, stock, and lemon zest. Scrape up any bits from the pan and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
  • Add the drained capellini to the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss gently until coated and glossy, adding more pasta water as needed.
  • Remove from heat and add the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Toss until melted and the sauce becomes silky.
  • Return the shrimp to the pan and gently toss until warmed through.
  • Finish with fresh lemon juice, parsley, and Parmesan (if using).
  • Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges, flaky sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of good olive oil.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

Storage
  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
    • Seafood pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep.
  • Freezer: Freezing is not recommended.
  • Reheating: Warm pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, stock, or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
    • Avoid overheating the shrimp may become rubbery.
 
 
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Keyword Angel Hair Pasta, Easy Pasta Recipe, Garlic Butter Shrimp, Seafood Pasta, Shrimp Pasta, Shrimp Scampi
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