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Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Pasta

A quick and flavorful one-pot shrimp scampi pasta made in the Instant Pot, featuring garlic, butter, and lemon, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (use medium to large) Frozen shrimp work fine if thawed.
  • 8-10 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or bucatini) Short cuts like penne can work but may change texture.
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter For dairy-free, substitute with olive oil.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For a dairy-free version, use instead of butter.
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional) Adds sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth Substitute with extra broth if needed.
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water Liquid for pasta.
  • 1 unit zest and juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp juice)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • for serving Grated Parmesan Optional.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Set the Instant Pot to Sauté and add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
  • Once hot, add shallot and cook 1–2 minutes until translucent.
  • Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let garlic brown.
  • Pour in the chicken broth (or broth) and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer 1 minute to reduce slightly.
  • Add the pasta in an even layer and pour the 2 1/2 cups broth over it. Press the pasta down so it’s mostly submerged but don’t stir excessively.
  • Nestle the shrimp on top of the pasta in a single layer. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.

Cooking

  • Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure-cook on High for 4 minutes.
  • Perform a quick release carefully once the cook time ends. Open lid and stir gently — pasta will finish cooking in the hot sauce.
  • If sauce seems thin, set to Sauté and simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce.

Finishing Touches

  • Stir in remaining butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Serve this scampi pasta straight from the pot into warm bowls. Pair with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a light chicken broth.
Keyword Instant Pot, One-Pot Meal, Pasta, Quick Dinner, Shrimp Scampi