This Spicy Shrimp Scampi Spaghetti is a weeknight savior. Quick to prepare yet elegant enough for company, this dish combines juicy shrimp in a garlic-butter sauce with perfectly cooked spaghetti.

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy meal for busy nights.
• Impressive enough for guests.
• Customizable spice levels to suit your taste.
• Combines pantry staples with fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined): The centerpiece of the dish, providing protein and flavor. Opt for fresh if possible.
• 1 tsp olive oil (to fry the shrimp): For sautéing, delivering a fruity flavor.
• 1/2 tsp olive oil (to the shrimp marinade): Helps the marinade coat the shrimp evenly.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without adding moisture. Substitute with fresh minced garlic if preferred.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Provides depth and a subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds mild heat and a smoky flavor.
• 1/2 tsp chili powder: For a kick of spice. Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors.
• 1/8 tsp pepper: Provides subtle heat and rounds out flavors.
• 1 pack spaghetti (400 grams) (or pasta of choice): The base of the dish, absorbing the delicious sauce. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Helps emulsify the sauce and add creaminess.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Completes the sauce with richness.
• 1/2 cup butter (salted): For the garlic-butter sauce, providing richness and flavor.
• 6 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the sauce with robust garlic flavor.
• 3/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (finely grated): Adds nuttiness and richness. Substitute with Parmesan if necessary.
• 1 heaping tbsp tomato paste: Provides a tangy depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 lemon (juiced): Balances the richness with acidity.
• 1 tsp lemon zest: Enhances the lemon flavor with aromatic oils.
• 3/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped fine): Provides freshness and a pop of color.
• 1 tbsp red pepper flakes (optional): For extra heat. Adjust according to preference.

How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and 1/2 tsp oil. Mix well to evenly coat. Let marinate while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated shrimp in a single layer and cook until bright pink and opaque, 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add butter and 2 tbsp olive oil. Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Whisk in the tomato paste until smooth, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the shrimp to the pan along with the lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, cooked pasta, and a small knob of butter. Stir in the Parmigiano Reggiano and gently toss, gradually adding reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency. Serve immediately while hot.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, though pre-cooked shrimp won’t absorb the sauce flavors as well. Adjust the sautéing process to just heat the shrimp through.

How do I adjust the spice level?

For less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder and red pepper flakes. For more spice, increase these ingredients or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

What can I substitute for parsley?

If parsley isn’t available, use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to add a similar freshness and aroma.