This article shows how to make Shrimp Scampi Linguine perfect for family dinners. We’ll share the story behind it, list what you need, walk through cooking steps, and answer common questions. Expect garlic-rich shrimp, lemony sauce, and tender pasta that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for weekends.
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
A Weeknight Turned Scampi Night
One rainy Thursday, I found myself craving comfort food without wanting to spend hours in the kitchen. I spotted shrimp in the fridge, some linguine, garlic, and butter. In under 20 minutes, I had Shrimp Scampi Linguine on the table—and my family declared it our new “Thursday night special.” Now, we look forward to it when we need a simple but satisfying meal.
This dish hits those comforting notes—think garlic in our 15-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp—but with bright lemon and tender pasta that brings everyone to the table.
Why Scampi Works for Everyone
Shrimp scampi is garlicky, buttery, and tangy thanks to lemon. It’s light enough for weeknights and flavorful enough for weekend dinners. The simple ingredients come together quickly, making it feel like a treat without the fuss. We love how it delivers garlic flavor reminiscent of our Creamy Coconut Shrimp with Garlic Noodles, but with a zesty pasta twist that’s all its own.
Ingredients & Prep
Everything You Need for Shrimp Scampi Linguine
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz linguine
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
If you enjoy garlic-rich shrimp dishes like our Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp Bowls, this scampi delivers the same bold flavors in pasta form.
Print
Shrimp Scampi Linguine for Family Dinner Nights
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Shrimp Scampi Linguine is a quick, garlic-lemon pasta dish perfect for family dinners. It’s rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz linguine
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook linguine in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and half the butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp; cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Pour vegetable broth and lemon juice into the pan, scraping the bottom to loosen browned bits. Let simmer briefly.
- Add remaining butter to melt.
- Toss in cooked linguine and return shrimp to the skillet.
- Stir gently to coat in sauce. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
You can swap linguine for spaghetti or fettuccine. Add steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
Keywords: shrimp scampi linguine, garlic lemon shrimp pasta, family dinner shrimp, easy shrimp pasta
Easy Prep Tips
Start cooking your linguine in salted water until al dente. Meanwhile, pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. Prep garlic and lemon while pasta cooks—you’ll be ready to sauté and finish quickly once the noodles are ready.
How to Cook It Right
Sautéing Shrimp in Garlic & Butter
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil and half the butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Bringing It All Together with Pasta
Pour vegetable broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping browned bits. Let it simmer briefly. Add remaining butter to melt. Toss in cooked linguine, then return shrimp to the pan. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce. Season to taste and sprinkle with parsley.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—thaw, pat dry, and cook just as you would fresh shrimp.
Can I use something else instead of broth?
Yes—feel free to use pasta water or a light veggie-based liquid. You’ll still get great flavor.
How can I make it spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes or finish with sliced chili for extra kick.
How long do leftovers stay good?
Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Linguine brings a restaurant-quality meal to your weeknight table in under 25 minutes. It’s garlicky, lemony, and rich with butter—all crowd-pleasing flavors. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread, or go full comfort with Crispy Garlic Butter Parmesan Potatoes for an indulgent twist.