Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of garlic butter shrimp scampi sizzling in a pan. The combination of plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic-infused butter sauce, brightened with a splash of lemon juice, makes this dish a true delight.

I first fell in love with shrimp scampi during a trip to a coastal restaurant, where the rich, buttery sauce clung to every strand of pasta. When I recreated it at home, I was thrilled by how quick and easy it was—ready in just 20 minutes! Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to add this shrimp scampi to your regular dinner rotation—it's just that good!

First, it's incredibly quick and easy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this restaurant-quality dish on the table in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive last-minute dinner.

Next, it's loaded with flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, lemon juice, and white wine creates a rich yet balanced sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully. Every bite is a perfect mix of savory, buttery goodness with a hint of citrusy brightness.

Another great thing? It's budget-friendly. Shrimp might seem like a luxury ingredient, but you can often find frozen shrimp at an affordable price. Pair it with pantry staples like butter, garlic, and pasta, and you’ve got an elegant meal without breaking the bank.

Finally, it's incredibly versatile. Serve it over spaghetti, linguine, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Prefer a low-carb meal? Just pair it with steamed veggies or a fresh salad.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this garlic butter shrimp scampi lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you need to make it shine:

Shrimp: Large or extra-large shrimp work best, as they stay juicy and tender. I prefer wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor, but farm-raised works too. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. I use at least four cloves, finely minced, to infuse the butter with that irresistible aroma. Feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover!

Butter & Olive Oil: A mix of unsalted butter and extra virgin olive oil creates a rich base for the sauce. The olive oil prevents the butter from burning while adding a subtle fruitiness.

White Wine: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, swap the wine for chicken broth with a squeeze of extra lemon juice.

Lemon Juice & Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish, while lemon zest enhances the citrusy notes. Always use fresh lemons for the best taste!

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.

No special equipment is required—just a large skillet to sear the shrimp and create the luscious sauce.

How To Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Creating this mouthwatering shrimp scampi is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time!

Start by prepping your shrimp. If they aren’t already peeled and deveined, do so now. I like to leave the tails on for presentation, but you can remove them if you prefer. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with a bit of salt and pepper.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, then cook the shrimp in a single layer for about 1-2 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Now, deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Let it simmer for a minute, then stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest. This step creates a rich, tangy sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.

Finally, return the shrimp to the pan, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly. If serving with pasta, add cooked spaghetti or linguine directly to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.

From start to finish, this entire process takes about 15-20 minutes—a quick and easy way to enjoy a gourmet meal at home!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), shrimp scampi stores surprisingly well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Since shrimp can become rubbery when reheated, it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later.

Freezing: While I don’t recommend freezing cooked shrimp scampi, you can freeze the raw shrimp and sauce separately. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight and cook fresh.

Reheating: Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or extra butter to help revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about shrimp scampi is how easy it is to customize! Here are a few delicious variations:

Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese for a richer, more indulgent sauce.

Go Low-Carb: Instead of pasta, serve your shrimp scampi over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash.

Swap the Protein: Not a fan of shrimp? This recipe works beautifully with scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by tossing in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or asparagus. They’ll absorb the delicious sauce and add a fresh, vibrant touch.

Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap traditional pasta for gluten-free pasta or a grain-free alternative like spiralized veggies.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—shrimp scampi is incredibly forgiving, and a few tweaks can make it your own!

Whether you're making this garlic butter shrimp scampi for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, it’s sure to be a hit. The best part? It’s so quick and easy that you can whip it up any night of the week. Serve it with a glass of white wine and some crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce.

Give this recipe a try, and let me know how you like it! 🍤✨

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