Go Back

Shrimp Scampi Garlic Cream Pasta

A creamy, garlicky pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all in one pan for easy cleanup.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine noodles
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter separated into two portions
  • 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella shredded
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
For the Sauce
  • 1 pound large shrimp shells removed and deveined
  • 5 cloves fresh garlic finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons juice from one lemon approximately
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
  • Kosher salt to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente, approximately 1 to 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet set over medium heat, heat the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter. Pat the shrimp dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place shrimp in the skillet and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until opaque and lightly golden. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.
  2. In the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  3. Pour in the wine (or broth), along with the lemon juice and zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  4. Return the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing thoroughly to coat in the garlic-butter mixture. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan and half of the chopped parsley. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp.
  5. Transfer the combined shrimp and pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan evenly across the top.
  6. Place the baking dish uncovered into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and develops a golden hue.
  7. Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining parsley. Optionally, finish with an additional squeeze of lemon before serving hot.

Notes

Keep the shrimp perfectly cooked by not overcooking. For added creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream before baking. Feel free to add sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.