If you’re craving a dish that feels both elegant and effortlessly satisfying, then Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is the perfect recipe to dive into. This timeless classic brings together succulent shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic and butter sauce, paired with delicate angel hair pasta that soaks up all those vibrant, zesty flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between fresh ingredients and irresistible taste, making it a true crowd-pleaser every time.

Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the best results with Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta comes down to using simple, quality ingredients that each add their own special touch to the dish. From the tender shrimp to the fresh garlic and bright lemon juice, every item plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors on your plate.

12 oz angel hair pasta: The delicate strands effortlessly capture the buttery sauce, making each bite silky and satisfying.
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for juicy, flavorful seafood that cooks quickly.
3 tbsp butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the scampi sauce that coats the shrimp and pasta beautifully.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the shrimp evenly while lending a subtle fruitiness to the dish.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The star aromatic, bringing bold flavor and that signature garlicky punch to the sauce.
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat to balance the buttery sweetness.
½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Used to deglaze the pan and build a savory, tangy base for the sauce.
Juice of 1 lemon: Brings brightness and acidity that lifts the dish and complements the seafood perfectly.
Salt & black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh pop of color and herbaceous notes for a final garnish that’s as lovely as it is tasty.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, which is key for seasoning the pasta from the inside out. Cook your angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente—tender but still with a slight bite that holds up well to the sauce. Don’t forget to save half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid is vital for loosening the sauce later without watering down the flavor. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the shrimp and sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet heated over medium heat, combine the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter. This fat combo ensures your shrimp sear beautifully and develop a simple golden crust. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking for about two to three minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking preserves their juicy texture. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and pause to prepare your flavorful scampi sauce in the same skillet.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

Using the skillet with the leftover cooking fats and bits, add your minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Sauté for 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, which sets the aromatic foundation of your sauce. Then, pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those delicious browned bits. Let the liquid simmer for two to three minutes until it reduces slightly, concentrating the flavors and thickening just a bit.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

Now, stir in the remaining butter and the fresh lemon juice. The butter enriches the sauce’s silkiness, creating a luscious consistency that clings to both pasta and shrimp. Season with salt and black pepper carefully, as the lemon and broth already bring some complexity. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together so those tender morsels soak in the garlicky, buttery goodness.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Finally, add your drained angel hair pasta to the skillet. Toss everything well to combine, making sure every strand is coated with the scampi sauce. If the sauce feels too thick or sticky, gradually add the reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This extra step ensures the dish remains silky and luscious.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta

Garnishes

To finish your dish beautifully, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. Its vibrant green color adds instant freshness, while its herbaceous flavor perfectly contrasts the rich butter and bright lemon. For an extra touch, a few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add a little zing as they please.

Side Dishes

Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette brings peppery notes that balance the richness, or you might enjoy roasted asparagus or steamed green beans for a healthy, colorful accompaniment. Crusty garlic bread is always a welcome partner, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta from homestyle comfort to restaurant-level charm by plating it in shallow bowls, swirling the pasta into neat nests with the shrimp artfully arranged on top. Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for visual flair. For a fun twist, serve it in individual ramekins or even inside hollowed-out lemon halves for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within two days to keep the shrimp tender and the pasta from becoming mushy. Before sealing, consider adding a splash of olive oil to help keep everything moist.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal, as shrimp can become rubbery and the delicate angel hair pasta might lose its texture. If you do freeze it, store the shrimp and sauce separate from the pasta in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for best taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

When reheating Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Adding a splash of broth or olive oil can help restore moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. Avoid high heat to keep the shrimp tender and preserve the fresh lemon notes that make this dish sing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to avoid excess water in your skillet. Using frozen shrimp can still yield fantastic results, especially when fresh isn’t readily available.

What’s the best type of wine to use in the scampi sauce?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works beautifully. They add subtle acidity and fruit notes that complement the garlic and lemon without overpowering the delicate shrimp flavor.

Is angel hair pasta the only pasta option for shrimp scampi?

Angel hair pasta is traditional and ideal due to its fine texture, but you can also use linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta remains al dente.

How spicy should I make the dish with red pepper flakes?

The half teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth that balances the richness nicely without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to adjust to your taste—either omit them for no heat or add a pinch more for extra kick.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

While shrimp is the star of this recipe, you can swap it for sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or zucchini for a vegetarian twist. Just keep the garlic, lemon, and butter sauce for that classic scampi flair.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta that feels like a warm hug on a plate—bright, buttery, and comforting all at once. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious, this dish is a fantastic choice. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.