Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Recipe – Simply LaKita

How to Make Cheesy Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Start Your Pasta Water First

Get a large pot of salted water on the burner and bring it to a boil before you do anything else. The sauce comes together quickly, and you want the pasta ready to add the moment the shrimp are done. If you time it so the pasta finishes cooking right as the sauce is ready, everything stays hot and fresh.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil and add the butter. Once the butter melts, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells incredible. Don’t rush this step, properly softened aromatics are the foundation of a great sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring once, until they just turn pink. This is the most important step to get right: shrimp cook fast, and once they curl into a tight C-shape, they’re done. An O-shape means overcooked, rubbery shrimp, pull them at the C.

Step 4: Build the Wine Sauce

Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, then slowly pour in the white wine and the remaining butter. Add the salt, black pepper, fresh basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently for a minute or two to allow the wine to cook down slightly and all the flavors to come together.

Step 5: Add the Pasta and Finish with Parmesan

Drain your cooked pasta, reserving a cup or two of the starchy pasta water. Remove the skillet from heat and add the pasta, tossing to coat. Add the pasta water a splash at a time until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency. Less water for a thicker, clingier sauce, more for something lighter. Stir in the grated Parmesan until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve immediately.