Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Name: Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2.5-3 pound spaghetti squash; 1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 5 ounces baby spinach; ½ cup low sodium vegetable broth; 3 tablespoons butter (divided); Juice of ½ lemon

Published: July 14, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Alternative: Spaghetti squash replaces traditional pasta, making this dish lower in carbs and calories.
Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a gourmet meal on the table in under an hour.
Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily modify the recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Chef’s knife
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Large skillet
Fork

Importance of Each Tool

Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the spaghetti squash easier and safer.
Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for roasting the squash evenly.
Large skillet: Necessary for cooking the shrimp and combining all ingredients without overcrowding.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Squash

2.5-3 pound spaghetti squash
3 tablespoons Danish Creamery salted butter (divided)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Shrimp Scampi Sauce

4 garlic cloves (minced)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
5 ounces baby spinach
½ cup low sodium vegetable broth
½ lemon (juiced, plus wedges for garnish)

For Serving

Parsley (chopped, for serving)
Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti Squash

Place the spaghetti squash on a cutting board.
Slice it into 1-2 inch rings as evenly as possible.
Carefully arrange the squash rings on the baking sheet with space between each piece.

Step 3: Roast the Squash

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
Brush the tops of each squash ring with melted butter.
Roast in the oven until tender, about 30-40 minutes.
Once cooked, pull apart the strands with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until they turn opaque and pink (about 2 minutes per side).
Remove shrimp from pan and set aside in a bowl.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Broth

In the same skillet, add spinach; stir until it wilts (about 1 minute).
Pour in vegetable broth and lemon juice; simmer until slightly reduced (about 2 minutes).

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked shrimp along with any juices back into the skillet.
Add spaghetti squash strands; carefully toss everything together to combine.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve your delicious Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi warm with lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Serving Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is an opportunity to get creative while keeping the meal light and tasty. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

Fresh lemon wedges add a burst of citrus flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Garnished with Parsley

Chopped parsley not only adds color but also brings a fresh herbal note that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Topped with Grated Parmesan Cheese

A sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese introduces a savory depth, balancing the dish’s flavors beautifully.

Accompanied by a Garden Salad

A light garden salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the rich textures of the spaghetti squash and shrimp.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

To make your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi even better, consider these helpful tips.

Choose ripe spaghetti squash: Look for a firm squash with a uniform yellow skin for the best flavor and texture.
Melt butter carefully: When melting butter, do it slowly over low heat to prevent it from burning.
Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn opaque and pink; overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper based on your preference.
Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced alternatives.
Experiment with greens: Try adding other leafy greens like kale or arugula for different flavors and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Pairing side dishes with your Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Garlic Bread
A classic choice that offers a crunchy texture and buttery flavor, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers roasted with olive oil provide color and nutrition.
Quinoa Salad
A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing adds protein and freshness.
Steamed Broccoli
Simple steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and healthy fiber without overpowering the main dish.
Cauliflower Rice
This low-carb alternative is great for those looking for a grain-free option that still feels hearty.
Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar can cleanse the palate between bites of rich scampi.
Grilled Asparagus
Lightly charred asparagus spears offer a smoky flavor that pairs well with seafood dishes.
Sweet Potato Mash
Creamy sweet potato mash adds natural sweetness and pairs nicely with the savory shrimp scampi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Overcooking the Squash: Cooking spaghetti squash too long can lead to mushy strands. Roast it until it’s just tender, usually 30-40 minutes.
Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season the dish with salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Choosing the Wrong Shrimp: Using shrimp that isn’t fresh can ruin the dish’s quality. Opt for large, raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best results.
Skipping the Broth: Omitting vegetable broth may lead to a dry dish. The broth adds moisture and depth of flavor, making it essential in this recipe.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Allowing shrimp to cook too long will make them rubbery. Cook until they are opaque and pink, about 2 minutes per side.
Forgetting Garnishes: Not adding fresh parsley or lemon can make your dish less appealing. These garnishes enhance both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the shrimp scampi fresh.

Freezing Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi.

What is Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is a light and delicious dish made with roasted spaghetti squash strands tossed with succulent shrimp, garlic, and spinach.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi?

Yes! Just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking for even results.

How do I choose a ripe spaghetti squash?

Look for a firm squash with a uniform color. It should feel heavy for its size without any soft spots.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

You can use olive oil or vegan butter as an alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti Squash Shrimp Scampi is not only flavorful but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent without the carbs!

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