Are you ready to make a quick and easy dinner that bursts with flavor? My Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Sheet Pan Delight is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights. With juicy shrimp, fresh veggies, and a garlic butter sauce, this one-pan meal offers a delicious taste with minimal cleanup. Let me guide you step-by-step to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 8 oz linguine or spaghetti, broken in half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
The ingredients in this dish create a burst of flavor. First, you want fresh, large shrimp. They bring a juicy, tender bite that pairs well with garlic. You need unsalted butter, which adds richness and allows you to control salt.
Garlic is a must. Minced garlic gives a strong aroma and taste that enhances the dish. A fresh lemon brings bright acidity. You can use both the zest and juice for full flavor.
Optional items like chili flakes add heat, while smoked paprika can bring a subtle smokiness. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juicy texture. Asparagus adds color and crunch.
For the pasta, I recommend linguine or spaghetti. Break the pasta in half for easier mixing.
Don’t forget salt and pepper. They help balance the dish. Lastly, fresh parsley makes a lovely garnish, adding color and freshness.
With these ingredients, you build layers of flavor. Each bite is a delightful mix of taste and texture, making this dish a true winner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper. It makes cleaning up easy later.
2. Mix the garlic butter marinade. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chili flakes (if you like heat), smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all well to blend the flavors.
3. Marinate the shrimp. Add the large shrimp to the bowl. Toss them in the garlic butter mixture until they are well coated. Let the shrimp sit for about 10 minutes. This helps them soak up all that tasty flavor.
Arranging Ingredients
1. Spread the vegetables on the sheet pan. Place the halved cherry tomatoes and trimmed asparagus evenly over the parchment. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil, then add salt and pepper. Toss them around to coat them well.
2. Position the shrimp and pasta. Create a space in the center of the pan for the marinated shrimp. Then, sprinkle the broken linguine around the shrimp and vegetables. This setup allows all the flavors to blend while baking.
Baking Process
1. Bake the dish. Place the sheet pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Check the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque. The pasta should be al dente.
2. Finishing touches. Once cooked, take the pan out and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds color and freshness to your dish.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavor
Marinating shrimp makes a big difference. Letting them sit in the garlic butter mix for about 10 minutes helps them soak up the flavor. If you like some heat, add chili flakes. Adjust the amount to fit your taste. You can also try smoked paprika for a smoky touch.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking pasta just right is key. Make sure it is al dente before adding it to the sheet pan. This means it should still have a bit of bite. Using parchment paper is a smart choice. It helps with easy cleanup and keeps the dish from sticking.
Presentation Ideas
Presentation can make your dish pop. You can serve it right on the sheet pan for a casual feel. If you want something fancier, plate the shrimp and pasta individually. Drizzle some extra lemon juice on top for a fresh touch. This makes the dish look bright and appetizing.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap the shrimp for other seafood. Try scallops, fish, or crab. Each adds a new flavor. Mixing in extra veggies can also boost this dish. Add bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli for more nutrients.
Dietary Modifications
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. There are many brands available that taste great. For a lower-calorie dish, reduce the butter. You can use just two tablespoons and still get great flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist. You can also try spices like lemon pepper or cayenne for extra heat. These small changes can make your dish stand out.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
After enjoying your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, store any leftovers in a sealed container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing to avoid moisture build-up.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save the dish for later, freezing works well! Place the cooled shrimp scampi in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay good in the freezer for about two months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out and thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating frozen shrimp scampi
To heat, place your thawed dish in a pan over low heat. Stir gently until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Just be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
You can tell shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 12-15 minutes in the oven. When done, they will curl slightly. Make sure not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the garlic butter and marinate the shrimp ahead of time. Just keep them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, spread the veggies and shrimp on the sheet pan and bake. This makes meal prep easy!
What can I use instead of linguine?
If you want a change, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. You can also skip the pasta and serve the shrimp and veggies over rice or quinoa for a different twist.
Cooking Techniques
What to do if the pasta is overcooked?
If your pasta is overcooked, it gets mushy. To fix this, you can try to dry it out in a pan on low heat. Stir it gently. Add a bit of olive oil to help it regain some texture. But, watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before marinating. A quick way is to put them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. Drain and pat dry before using in the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
What sides go well with shrimp scampi?
Shrimp scampi pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a light vegetable medley. These sides add color and balance to your meal.
This dish combines fresh shrimp, garlic, and pasta for a simple, tasty meal. We explored ingredients, preparation, baking, and easy tips. You can swap seafood, try gluten-free pasta, or customize flavors. Store leftovers properly for later enjoyment. Cooking at home is fun and rewarding. I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own delicious shrimp scampi. Enjoy every bite!


