Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi

Craving restaurant-style shrimp scampi without the fuss? This Instant Pot version delivers perfectly tender, garlicky shrimp and silky angel hair pasta in just 15 minutes. The magic of pressure cooking allows the pasta to soak up all the flavorful juices while the shrimp finish cooking to juicy perfection. It’s an effortless, elegant dinner that’s ideal for busy weeknights or a quick, show-stopping meal for guests.

With bright lemon, fresh parsley, and a hint of red pepper flakes, this dish is light, zesty, and full of flavor. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever waited so long to make shrimp scampi at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish
• Juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp every time
• One-pot cooking minimizes cleanup
• Fresh, bright flavors with garlic, lemon, and parsley
• Easy to customize for spicier or richer variations

Ingredients

• Medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined – Tender, succulent protein
• Olive oil – For sautéing shrimp and developing flavor
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and classic scampi flavor
• Shallot – Provides sweetness and mild onion flavor
• White wine – Adds a subtle acidity and complexity (or swap with chicken/vegetable stock)
• Water – Cooks the pasta and creates a flavorful sauce
• Angel hair pasta – Cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully
• Butter – Enriches the sauce with creaminess
• Lemon juice – Brightens and balances the richness
• Fresh parsley – Adds color and freshness
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning

How to Make Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi

Sauté the Shrimp

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil until shimmering. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 1 minute per side; don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked—they’ll finish while the pasta cooks. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Build the Flavor Base

Add minced shallot and garlic to the pot and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Add water last to prevent splattering.

Cook the Pasta

Add angel hair pasta in a criss-cross pattern and press it under the liquid. Return shrimp to the pot, secure the lid, and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.

Finish the Sauce

Perform a quick pressure release. Open the lid and stir in butter, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to combine and let sit for 2–3 minutes if the butter hasn’t fully melted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Plate immediately, optionally topping with lemon zest for extra brightness.

Tips for Success

• Always pat shrimp dry before cooking for better searing and flavor.
• Fresh garlic and real lemon juice make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Don’t worry if shrimp aren’t fully cooked during sauté—they’ll finish perfectly in the pressure cooking step.
• Press pasta fully under the liquid to ensure even cooking.
• Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.

Equipment Needed

• Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Scampi – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy Version – Stir in 1/4 cup cream or cream cheese after pressure cooking.
• Garlic-Butter Lovers – Double the garlic and butter for extra richness.
• Low-Carb – Serve the shrimp and sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread to soak up the buttery sauce. A sprinkle of extra parsley or a lemon wedge on the side brightens the presentation.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry for best results.

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine all work—adjust pressure cooking time slightly for thicker pasta.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter and skip optional cheese toppings.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I skip the wine?
Yes, substitute chicken or vegetable stock for similar flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi is proof that restaurant-quality meals can be fast, easy, and satisfying. Juicy shrimp, tender pasta, and a garlicky, lemony sauce come together in one pot for a dinner that’s both elegant and effortless. Perfect for weeknights, date nights, or anytime you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

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