Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright flavors and just the right touch of elegance, Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is exactly what you need. This classic recipe brings together tender, juicy shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter and olive oil sauce, all tossed with delicate angel hair pasta that soaks up every bit of that savory goodness. The addition of fresh lemon juice and parsley gives it a refreshing lift, making it a simple yet stunning meal perfect for dinner any night of the week. Trust me, once you make Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta, it’s going to become your go-to for something quick, satisfying, and downright delicious.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta lies in its simplicity, and the ingredients reflect that. Each one plays a vital role in building the dish’s flavor profile—from the succulent shrimp and delicate pasta to the bright lemon and aromatic garlic, every element comes together effortlessly to create a perfect balance.

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• 8 oz angel hair pasta: Its thin strands are perfect for soaking up the tasty garlicky sauce.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Balances the butter and adds a subtle fruity depth.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that bold, savory punch that defines scampi.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle kick without overwhelming the dish.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Adds acidity and complexity to the sauce.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens and lifts the entire dish, cutting through the richness.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Fresh herbs add color and a subtle herbal freshness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning enhances all the other flavors.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: A final splash of citrus makes every bite pop.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Angel hair pasta cooks incredibly fast — usually just 2-3 minutes until al dente — so keep a close eye on it. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy liquid will come in handy later to loosen the sauce perfectly.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the peeled shrimp, cooking them 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick cooking time ensures the shrimp stays juicy and tender. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside for the next step.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the white wine or chicken broth to deglaze your skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer gently to reduce the liquid slightly — this concentrated base becomes the heart of your flavorful scampi sauce, beautifully melding garlic, butter, and shrimp essence.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add the drained angel hair pasta. Toss everything together, coating the pasta in the garlicky, buttery sauce. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley, which bring a fresh brightness to every bite. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some of the reserved pasta water to perfectly loosen it and help everything cling together deliciously.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Adjust salt and pepper to taste, making sure the flavors are perfectly balanced. Serve your Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta immediately with lemon wedges on the side—squeezing on extra citrus just before eating takes this dish to the next level of irresistible.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta

Garnishes

Simple garnishes make a great difference: a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens the plate and adds a splash of color, while lemon wedges encourage your guests to add as much citrus zing as they like. For a sprinkle of elegance, a dash of freshly cracked black pepper or even some grated Parmesan works beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is rich and zesty, lighter sides complement it wonderfully. Think of a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, or steamed asparagus tossed with a bit of olive oil and lemon zest. Crusty garlic bread is a classic side that’s perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this dish in shallow white bowls to highlight the vibrant colors and textures. You might also plate individual servings atop a bed of sautéed spinach or arugula for a pop of green and added nutrients. Sprinkling toasted pine nuts or a few chili flakes can add an interesting crunch and depth of flavor, making your Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta stand out even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta tastes great the next day but keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta might absorb some sauce overnight, so store the sauce and pasta together to preserve moisture and flavor.

Freezing

While shrimp scampi is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Portion the pasta and shrimp with sauce into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, as freezing may slightly alter the texture of the shrimp.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp and pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little olive oil or reserved pasta water to keep the sauce from drying out. Microwave can work in a pinch, but stirring occasionally helps heat evenly without overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the sauce’s texture.

What if I don’t have white wine? Can I substitute it?

Yes, dry white wine adds acidity and flavor depth, but chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute that still gives you a tasty sauce.

How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely for a mild, kid-friendly version.

Can I use other types of pasta?

You can, but angel hair pasta is ideal because its delicate texture absorbs and carries the sauce beautifully without overpowering the shrimp.

How soon can I serve Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta after cooking?

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. The longer it sits, the more the pasta will absorb the sauce and the shrimp may toughen up slightly.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta brings a touch of restaurant-worthy elegance right into your kitchen without complicated steps or fancy ingredients. The blend of garlic, lemon, and fresh shrimp melded with light pasta creates a dish that feels special yet comes together quickly. It’s a recipe I love sharing with friends, and I’m sure once you try it, it’ll become a favorite in your home too. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of bright, buttery goodness that never goes out of style!