Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Pasta with Shell Broth
This garlic butter shrimp scampi pasta features a rich, homemade shell broth infused with lemon and herbs. Juicy shrimp are seared in a garlicky butter base, then tossed with linguine for a comforting and flavorful seafood pasta that's perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, shells reserved
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter divided
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest from one lemon
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth for shell broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice for shell broth
- 1 lb linguine or preferred pasta
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, plus more for garnish
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
Prepare Shell Broth
- Peel and devein the shrimp, reserving the shells separately.
- In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp shells and cook until pink and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes. Strain and set the broth aside.
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
Cook the Shrimp & Assemble
- In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until garlic is fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque.
- Stir in the strained shell broth and lemon zest. Let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Toss well to coat.
- Stir in chopped parsley, and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon for both zest and juice to maximize brightness.
- If your shrimp are small, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
- The homemade shell broth adds richness—don't skip this step.