Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi sizzling in a skillet. This dish is a perfect balance of juicy shrimp, rich buttery sauce, and bright citrusy notes, all served over a bed of tender pasta or with crusty bread to soak up every drop.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with shrimp scampi during a summer trip to the coast, where the seafood was always fresh, and the flavors were bold yet simple. Over time, I perfected my own version—one that’s quick, easy, and packed with restaurant-quality flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a romantic dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to add this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi to your regular meal rotation! It's a dish that looks and tastes fancy but is incredibly easy to make.

First off, it's ready in just 15 minutes! With minimal prep and quick cooking, this is the ultimate last-minute dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

The flavors are rich and satisfying, yet surprisingly light. The combination of garlic-infused butter, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of white wine creates a sauce that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness without overpowering it.

It’s also versatile and customizable. You can serve it over pasta, alongside steamed vegetables, or with warm, crusty bread for dipping. Want a low-carb option? Try it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Best of all, it requires just a handful of simple ingredients. No complicated steps or hard-to-find components—just fresh shrimp, butter, garlic, and a few pantry staples that come together beautifully.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and effortless, this scampi is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature scampi flavor.

Shrimp – Use large or extra-large shrimp for the best texture. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Butter & Olive Oil – A combination of butter and olive oil creates a rich base for the sauce while preventing the butter from burning. Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is essential for that classic scampi flavor. Don’t skimp—this dish is all about bold garlic goodness!

White Wine or Chicken Broth – Traditional scampi includes a splash of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer an alcohol-free version, chicken broth works just as well.

Lemon Juice & Zest – Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the sauce, while a bit of zest adds extra citrusy depth.

Red Pepper Flakes – Just a pinch gives a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor. Feel free to adjust to your spice preference.

Fresh Parsley – This adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.

If serving with pasta, linguine or angel hair works best, as they soak up the sauce beautifully. Also, keep a good skillet on hand—preferably stainless steel or cast iron—to get a nice sear on the shrimp.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is incredibly easy, and it all comes together in just a few simple steps.

Start by cooking your pasta if you're serving it with the dish. Reserve some pasta water before draining—it helps emulsify the sauce later.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a mix of butter and olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more butter along with the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to burn it!

Next, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly. This step enhances the depth of flavor.

Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the shrimp back to the pan, tossing everything together to coat. If serving with pasta, add the cooked pasta along with a splash of reserved pasta water, stirring to combine.

Finish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest, then serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

This entire process takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect meal when you’re short on time but still craving something delicious.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it's rare with this dish!), here’s how to store them properly.

Refrigerator – Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shrimp will continue absorbing the sauce, making it even more flavorful!

Freezer – While you can freeze shrimp scampi, the texture of the shrimp may change slightly. If you do freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating – Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or butter to keep the shrimp from overcooking. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is how easy it is to customize! Here are a few ways to switch it up:

Make it creamy – Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, velvety finish. This version is perfect for pasta lovers!

Swap the protein – Not a shrimp fan? Try this recipe with scallops, chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Go low-carb – Instead of pasta, serve the scampi over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash for a lighter option.

Add more veggies – Toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.

Make it extra garlicky – Love garlic? Add roasted garlic to the sauce for a deeper, slightly sweet flavor.

No matter how you make it, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a guaranteed hit. It's a simple, elegant, and flavor-packed meal that comes together in no time. Give it a try tonight and enjoy restaurant-quality dining in the comfort of your own kitchen!

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