Shrimp Scampi With Angel Hair Pasta

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

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I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta whenever I want a quick yet elegant meal. The combination of succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and white wine creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and pairs beautifully with the delicate strands of pasta. It’s a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners but fancy enough to impress guests on special occasions. Plus, it takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect choice when time is of the essence but you want to savor something delicious.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:01:35.227Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Scampi, I was amazed at how simple yet luxurious the dish could be. The trick is using fresh shrimp and a splash of good white wine, which elevates the flavors tremendously. One key tip I've learned is to sauté the garlic until it's fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can overpower the dish.

Another little tip is to finish the pasta in the sauce for the last minute of cooking. This helps the pasta absorb the flavors and creates a beautifully cohesive dish. Trust me, once you try this method, you won't want to go back to cooking them separately!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly cooked shrimp that are flavorful and tender
Light yet satisfying with delicious garlic and wine sauce
Quick enough for a weeknight, impressive enough for guests

Mastering the Method

One of the most crucial aspects of making Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is timing. The shrimp cooks quickly, typically in just 2-3 minutes per side. To ensure they are perfectly tender and not overcooked, watch for their color transformation from gray to a lovely pink. As they start curling into a C shape, it’s a sign they're nearly done. Using a timer during this step can help you avoid overcooking, which makes shrimp rubbery.

When preparing the garlic and red pepper flakes, be careful not to let them brown too much in the oil, as this can lead to a bitter taste. You want the garlic just fragrant and soft, which usually takes around a minute on medium heat. If you're unsure, keep a close eye to avoid golden edges; if you see that happening, lower the heat immediately.

Ingredient Insights

White wine plays a pivotal role in the flavor of this dish. Not only does it enhance the sauce's depth, but it also helps deglaze the skillet, lifting up the tasty bits left behind from cooking the shrimp. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best here. Avoid sweet varieties, as they can alter the intended taste profile, making it overly sweet instead of balancing the garlic and spice.

Fresh parsley isn’t just a garnish in this recipe—its vibrant flavor brightens the dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and olive oil. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with fresh basil or even chives, although the flavor will be different. Just use about half as much dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand. The freshness is key, so use whatever herb you like that complements the dish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi

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

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the shrimp and sauce. Stir in fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Also, using fresh shrimp rather than frozen can make a significant difference in flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat. Adding a tablespoon or two of water or a splash of additional white wine can help restore some moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir frequently to ensure an even heat distribution, saving your pasta from becoming gummy.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the shrimp scampi before adding it to the pasta. Place the cooled shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp Scampi pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce. Adding a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta. You might also consider serving it alongside sautéed seasonal vegetables for a pop of color and nutrition on the plate.

For a more luxurious touch when serving, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the finished dish. While traditional scampi doesn’t typically include cheese, the creamy texture can be delightful with shrimp and buttery sauce, appealing to those who enjoy the combination. Just remember, less is more—too much can overwhelm the dish's essential flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

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

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a non-alcoholic substitute.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, usually taking about 2-3 minutes per side.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it. Cook the pasta just before serving for best results.