Name: Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 12 oz thin spaghetti; 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional); 6 cloves garlic, divided (3 minced, 3 thinly sliced); 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 4 teaspoons chili crisp, divided (plus more to taste); 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish); Crispy shallots for garnish

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This Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi is what happens when classic Italian comfort gets a bold, spicy makeover! Imagine luscious shrimp soaking up a garlicky, buttery sauce laced with zingy lemon and an irresistible hit of chili crisp. Each bite is a twirl of silky pasta, juicy shrimp, crispy shallots, and fresh cilantro—all dancing together in a dish that looks as lively as it tastes. If you’re ready for a meal with vibrant flavor and playful texture that comes together in less than an hour, this is the fusion pasta night you’ve been waiting for.

Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple but vibrant ingredients team up here, each playing a special role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. Don’t skip on any element—the magic is in their synergy, making this Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi a standout.

Thin spaghetti (12 oz): The perfect noodle for soaking up all that buttery, spicy sauce.
Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 lb): Juicy, tender shrimp are the star, delivering sweet flavor and satisfying bites.
Garlic, divided (6 cloves): Minced and sliced, garlic adds depth and a double-layered aromatic punch.
Extra-virgin olive oil (¼ cup): Helps develop rich flavor as shrimp and garlic sizzle; use a good quality one for best results.
Chili crisp (4 teaspoons, divided, plus more): This spicy, crunchy condiment brings personality, heat, and that fun savory crunch.
Kosher salt (1½ teaspoons, divided): Essential for seasoning each component, bringing flavors right to the surface.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Silky, creamy, and classic—melts into the sauce for richness and shine.
Dry white wine (½ cup): Adds brightness and gentle acidity—use something you’d enjoy sipping!
Fresh lemon juice (¼ cup): Lifts and balances the warmth with zingy citrus sparkle.
Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Rounds out the spice and acidity, for a subtle, caramel-like background flavor.
Chopped fresh cilantro (2 tablespoons, plus extra): Brings green freshness and an herbaceous note to every forkful.
Crispy shallots (for garnish): The ultimate crisp topping—think sweet, oniony crunch that makes every bite more fun.

How to Make Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the thin spaghetti until just al dente, usually about 10 minutes—don’t overcook, since it will soak up the sauce later. Reserving some pasta water (about 3/4 cup) is key; it’ll help bring your sauce together at the end. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, toss the shrimp in a bowl with the minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili crisp, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. This short marinade infuses the shrimp with garlicky, spicy warmth, and it only takes about 15 minutes—just enough time for the flavors to mingle and get friendly.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add your marinated shrimp in one layer and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they turn pink and juicy—resist the urge to overcook! Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate, keeping all those tasty juices in the pan.

Step 4: Build the Scampi Sauce

Put the sliced garlic and the rest of the olive oil into the same skillet (yes, with all the shrimp bits left behind). Cook the garlic for about a minute until it turns fragrant and lightly golden. Pour in the dry white wine, letting it bubble and reduce for a minute or two—this intensifies the flavor and adds depth. Lower the heat and stir in lemon juice, brown sugar, the rest of the butter, the remaining chili crisp (three teaspoons), and the last 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Watch as it all melts together into a glossy, aromatic sauce.

Step 5: Put It All Together

Return the shrimp to the skillet, and add the cooked spaghetti and cilantro. Use tongs to toss everything together, making sure each strand and shrimp gets a glossy coat of that lush, chili crisp sauce. If things look a bit tight, splash in a little reserved pasta water at a time until you reach a saucy, silky texture. This is when the Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi really shines!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the finished dish to a serving platter or individual bowls. Pile on the crispy shallots and extra cilantro as a crowning touch. Bring extra chili crisp to the table for anyone craving even more heat and crunch.

How to Serve Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi

Garnishes

Freshly chopped cilantro and a generous handful of crispy shallots are musts—together, they add brightness and irresistible crunch that perfectly contrast the lush sauce. If you love a little extra zing, finish with a wedge of lemon or a drizzle of chili crisp right before serving. These touches aren’t just for looks; they amp up every forkful.

Side Dishes

This vibrant scampi pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette, or some sautéed greens for a pop of color. Warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every drop of sauce. If you’re feeling indulgent, a chilled glass of dry white wine echoes the flavors in the dish and keeps everything light and festive.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, try twirling nests of Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi onto small plates for individual servings, topped with microgreens and extra crispies. It’s also gorgeous piled onto a big family-style platter—just add a bowl of extra chili crisp on the side for bold eaters. No matter how you present it, this pasta’s colors and textures will wow your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi (lucky you!), transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep deliciously for up to 2 days. The flavors mellow a bit but still pack that spicy-savory punch.

Freezing

While you can technically freeze this dish, shrimp and pasta both change texture after freezing. If you must, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, but know that freshly made Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi really is the best!

Reheating

To reheat, add the pasta and shrimp to a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Warm over gentle heat, stirring frequently, just until everything is hot. Add a little fresh cilantro or chili crisp on top to revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure they’re thoroughly thawed and patted dry before marinating so they soak up all the garlicky, spicy flavor for your Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi. Fresh or frozen works, as long as the shrimp are plump and high quality.

What is chili crisp, and where can I find it?

Chili crisp is a savory, spicy condiment full of crispy bits, peppers, and aromatic spices—you’ll find it in most Asian markets, specialty stores, or online. Its unique mix of heat and crunch is what lifts this Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi far above your typical scampi.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine?

If you’d rather skip the wine, try chicken or vegetable broth with an extra squeeze of lemon for brightness. Your Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi will still have that lovely, tangy depth without the alcohol.

Can I make this gluten-free?

No problem—just replace the thin spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making this a perfect meal for everyone at the table.

How spicy is this dish?

This Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi brings gentle, flavorful heat that feels exciting but not overpowering. Start with the suggested amount of chili crisp, then add more at the table if you love that spicy kick. You’re in control!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something bold, playful, and satisfying, don’t hesitate to try this Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi. It’s my go-to for mixing up pasta night and always brings a round of happy “oohs” to the table. I can’t wait for you to dig in and discover just how much fun a fusion scampi can be!

Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a tantalizing fusion of Italian and Asian flavors with this Chili Crisp Shrimp Scampi recipe. Succulent shrimp marinated in a spicy chili crisp sauce, tossed with al dente spaghetti, and finished with a zesty lemon-butter sauce. A delightful dish that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti:

12 oz thin spaghetti

Shrimp:

1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on optional)

Garlic:

6 cloves garlic, divided (3 minced, 3 thinly sliced)

Oil:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Chili Crisp:

4 teaspoons chili crisp, divided (plus more to taste)

Salt:

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

Butter:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

White Wine Mixture:

1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar

Additional:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
Crispy shallots for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, about 10 minutes. Reserve 3/4 cup cooking water; drain pasta.
Marinate Shrimp: Combine shrimp with minced garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili crisp, and 1 teaspoon salt. Allow to marinate for 15 minutes.
Cook Shrimp: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink; transfer to a plate.
Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, cook sliced garlic and olive oil, then add white wine, lemon juice, brown sugar, remaining butter, chili crisp, and salt. Stir until sugar melts.
Combine: Return shrimp to skillet with pasta and cilantro, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Serve: Top with crispy shallots and cilantro.