Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is one of those timeless dishes that feels both luxurious and incredibly simple to prepare. Tender shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with a splash of lemon and fresh herbs. The result is bright, savory, and deeply satisfying. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.
The first time I made shrimp scampi at home, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The key is not to overcook the shrimp. I once added a small splash of white wine to the sauce, and it created an even deeper layer of flavor. The combination of butter, garlic, and lemon creates a beautifully balanced sauce that coats every bite perfectly. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is ideal for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is quick, flavorful, and versatile. It requires minimal ingredients while delivering bold, balanced taste.
The shrimp cook in minutes, making it a convenient option for busy evenings. The garlic butter sauce is rich but brightened by lemon, preventing it from feeling heavy.
Another reason to appreciate this recipe is its flexibility. You can serve it with pasta, zucchini noodles, or even over toasted bread. It adapts easily to different dietary preferences and occasions.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: A Classic, Elegant Seafood Favorite
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A classic garlic butter shrimp scampi made with tender shrimp sautéed in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce. Quick, flavorful, and perfect served over pasta or with crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions if serving with pasta. Drain and set aside.
- Season shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add remaining butter and stir until melted and sauce slightly thickens.
- Toss cooked pasta into the skillet if using, coating well with sauce.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcook shrimp; they cook quickly.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture.
- Can substitute vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
The star of the dish, providing tender and juicy texture.
Unsalted butter
Forms the rich base of the sauce.
Olive oil
Prevents the butter from burning and adds depth.
Garlic cloves (minced)
Infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor.
Lemon juice
Adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.
Lemon zest (optional)
Enhances the citrus aroma.
Dry white wine (optional)
Adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Provide a subtle kick of heat.
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Adds freshness and color.
Salt
Enhances overall flavor.
Black pepper
Adds mild heat and depth.
Pasta or crusty bread (for serving)
Completes the dish and absorbs the flavorful sauce.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil if serving with pasta. Cook pasta according to package instructions and reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not allow the garlic to brown.
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
If using white wine, add it to the pan and allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest if desired, and red pepper flakes. Simmer briefly.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Equipment needed :
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a small splash of water or broth to prevent drying. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of shrimp may change.
Variations and Customizations
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi can be easily adapted. For a creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount of minced garlic slightly. I have also tried adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end, which adds richness and depth.
For a low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Adding cherry tomatoes can introduce sweetness and color.
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the white wine and substitute with a small amount of chicken broth.
For additional texture, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs over the finished dish.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving (without pasta, based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fat | 23 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overcook Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
Use Fresh Garlic
Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
Balance the Lemon
Add lemon gradually to maintain balance.
Serve Immediately
Shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
What type of pasta works best?
Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute butter with additional olive oil.
Is wine necessary?
No, it adds depth but can be omitted.
How do I know shrimp are done?
They turn pink and opaque with a slight curl.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
It is best served fresh due to the quick cooking time of shrimp.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and bright lemon creates a balanced and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this classic recipe remains a favorite for good reason.
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