Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Squash

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Squash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium spaghetti squash; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Squash. This dish not only satisfies my seafood cravings but also makes me feel great about my veggie intake. The combination of succulent shrimps cooked in a garlicky butter sauce, paired with the delicate strands of roasted spaghetti squash, creates a delightful and light meal. Plus, cooking the spaghetti squash provides a unique twist on traditional pasta, making it a perfect low-carb alternative. I can’t wait to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-15T15:10:18.816Z

When I first experimented with spaghetti squash, I was amazed by how closely it resembles traditional pasta. I remember initially being skeptical about its texture, but after roasting it properly, those tender strands soaked up the flavors of the scampi sauce beautifully. The cooking method I use ensures that the squash is perfectly cooked, not too dry or too mushy, which allows for a fantastic finish to the dish.

This recipe has become one of my go-to meals, especially for gatherings. Everyone is always surprised to learn they’re eating spaghetti squash instead of pasta. I’ve found that the key is to cook the shrimp to just the right doneness—juicy, with a hint of garlic, balanced by the freshness of parsley. It's a dish that will impress both family and friends!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously buttery and garlicky shrimp complement the spaghetti squash perfectly.
A healthier alternative to traditional pasta without sacrificing flavor.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Key Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

Cooking shrimp requires precise timing to ensure they remain tender and juicy. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, which is less than ideal. When you add the shrimp to the skillet, look for them to turn pink and opaque, usually in just 2-3 minutes on each side. If you're unsure, using a digital meat thermometer can help—shrimp are perfectly cooked at an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C).

Another tip for achieving the best texture is to use large, fresh shrimp if available. They have a meatier texture compared to smaller varieties. If you're using frozen shrimp, ensure they're fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess water from diluting your garlic butter sauce.

Benefits of Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti squash is not only a low-carb alternative but also packed with nutrients. It offers a light, mildly sweet flavor that complements the rich, garlicky shrimp scampi beautifully. By roasting the squash, you enhance its sweetness and create those delicious spaghetti-like strands. Ensuring your squash is cooked until fork-tender guarantees an easy shredding process, yielding a delightful base for your sauce.

If you're preparing this dish for meal prep, you can roast multiple spaghetti squashes at once. Once cooled, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week. This means you can whip up quick meals by simply heating the strands and tossing them with your shrimp scampi sauce later. It's a great way to enjoy this dish throughout the week with minimal effort.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a balanced meal, consider serving the Shrimp Scampi with a side salad or sautéed greens. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely, contrasting the richness of the dish. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan on top for an added layer of flavor if you're not strictly avoiding dairy.

To switch things up, try adding vegetables to your shrimp scampi. Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can be sautéed alongside the shrimp, offering more nutrition and color to the dish. You can also replace the white wine with vegetable stock for a non-alcoholic version that still delivers a depth of flavor without compromising the overall essence of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful experience:

Ingredients

1 medium spaghetti squash
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Shrimp Scampi with Spaghetti Squash:

Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender. Once done, use a fork to scrape out the strands.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turns pink.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, letting it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Mix in the spaghetti squash strands and toss until well combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve

Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot. Enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures!

Serve immediately and enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For deeper flavor, try adding a splash of your favorite seafood broth when cooking the shrimp.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of wine in this recipe adds acidity and helps to deepen the flavor of the garlic butter sauce. Opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which can brighten the dish. Avoid sweet wines, as they may clash with the other flavors. If you're avoiding wine altogether, a splash of chicken or vegetable broth along with lemon juice can provide a similar brightness without the alcohol.

Butter is essential for creating that rich scampi sauce, but for a lighter option, consider substituting half the butter with extra virgin olive oil. This not only reduces saturated fat but also adds heart-healthy fats that complement the flavor profile of the garlic and shrimp beautifully.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your spaghetti squash seems watery after cooking, it's likely that the squash was overcooked. Make sure to roast it just until fork-tender, around 30-35 minutes, depending on the size of the squash. If you encounter excess moisture, simply drain it before mixing in the shrimp scampi sauce to prevent diluting the flavors.

When cooking shrimp, if you find they are sticking to the pan, ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the butter and shrimp. A hot skillet helps sear the shrimp, creating a non-stick effect. If they still stick, gently use a spatula to lift them; they should release as they cook through.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing components of Shrimp Scampi can save time during busy evenings. You can roast the spaghetti squash a day in advance, and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors of the shrimp scampi sauce also benefit from being made ahead; allow it to cool, refrigerate, and reheat gently on the stove before mixing with the spaghetti squash strands.

If you plan to freeze leftovers, consider keeping the spaghetti squash and shrimp sauce separate to maintain texture and flavor. The shrimp can get chewy when reheated, so storing separately and consuming within a month ensures the best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

→ How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done?

It should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the squash and sauce separately.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.