Shrimp Scampi Spaghetti with Garlic & White Wine is a classic Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender spaghetti, and a rich, garlicky white wine sauce. The sauce is made with butter, olive oil, fresh garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and a hint of red pepper flakes, creating a fragrant, flavorful dish that’s both light and indulgent.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, shrimp scampi is elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for a quick, satisfying meal. Each bite delivers a balance of buttery richness, zesty brightness, and the delicate sweetness of shrimp — making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, flavorful, and restaurant-quality without the fuss. The shrimp cook in minutes, absorbing the garlicky, buttery, wine-infused sauce, while the spaghetti soaks up every bit of flavor.

It’s the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication — a comforting pasta that feels indulgent but never heavy.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s a classic seafood pasta that’s elegant yet approachable. The garlicky white wine sauce enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness, and the spaghetti acts as the perfect canvas to absorb all the flavors.

It’s quick to make, requiring minimal ingredients, yet delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, Shrimp Scampi Spaghetti never fails to impress with its bright, buttery, and slightly tangy profile.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• Salt, for pasta water

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter and 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic & White Wine Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
3. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer.
4. Let wine reduce slightly for 2–3 minutes.
5. Stir in remaining 1 tbsp butter and lemon juice.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

1. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss gently to coat pasta, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
3. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss until evenly mixed.
4. Stir in chopped parsley for freshness.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the pasta and shrimp.
2. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
3. Serve immediately while hot.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course with a side of garlic bread or a light salad.
• Pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay.
• Optional: drizzle with extra lemon juice or sprinkle grated Parmesan for added flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Shrimp: Don’t overcook — shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
• Garlic: Sauté just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
• Pasta Water: Use reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the spaghetti.
• White Wine: Use a dry white wine that you would drink, as it greatly affects flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds freshness and visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
2. Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
3. Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein.
4. Vegetable Addition: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended for pasta with shrimp, as shrimp may become rubbery.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore sauce consistency.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Tongs for tossing pasta and shrimp

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes — thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess water.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Prepare pasta and sauce separately, but cook shrimp fresh just before serving for best texture.

Q3: Can I substitute wine with broth?
Yes — use chicken or vegetable broth, but the dish will lack some depth from the wine.

Q4: Can I make it creamy?
Yes — add ¼ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.

Q5: Can I use different pasta?
Yes — linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair work beautifully.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi Spaghetti with Garlic & White Wine is a classic, elegant, and quick-to-make pasta dish that highlights the delicate sweetness of shrimp with a buttery, garlicky, and tangy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or date nights, this dish combines simple ingredients to deliver bold flavors that impress every time.

It’s versatile, light yet indulgent, and full of fresh, aromatic flavors — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and elegant.