Looking for a fast and flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your dinner table? This shrimp scampi recipe is exactly what you need. It’s rich, buttery, garlicky, and brightened with fresh lemon — all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and juicy shrimp. Originally inspired by Italian cuisine, shrimp scampi has become a beloved staple in American kitchens, thanks to its quick prep time and luxurious flavor. Whether you’re hosting guests or need a weeknight dinner in under 30 minutes, this dish delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Elegant & Impressive: Great for date nights or entertaining.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spice, richness, or pasta type.
- Fresh & Zesty: Lemon and parsley give it a light, fresh finish.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Here are the star ingredients that make this dish irresistible:
- Shrimp – Tender, juicy shrimp soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- Garlic – Adds a rich, aromatic base that defines scampi’s signature flavor.
- Butter & Olive Oil – Creates a luxurious, velvety sauce with depth.
- Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the entire dish with a fresh citrus zing.
- White Wine or Broth – De-glazes the pan and adds subtle acidity and complexity.
- Parsley – Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Pasta – Angel hair, linguine, or spaghetti pairs perfectly with the delicate sauce.
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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Shrimp Scampi Recipe
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil a pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove from pan.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce:
Add more butter to the same pan, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pan:
Pour in the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Combine everything:
Return shrimp to the pan, add cooked pasta, and toss everything together. Add a bit of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Garnish and serve:
Top with lemon zest, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional). Serve warm with lemon wedges.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the shrimp — they become rubbery quickly! As soon as they turn pink, remove them from heat.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spicy Scampi: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a gentle kick.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese for a richer sauce.
- Low-carb option: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta or rice.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved this shrimp scampi recipe, you’ll definitely want to try these other irresistible seafood dishes:
- Garlic Shrimp Gratin – A creamy, cheesy, oven-baked shrimp dish that’s rich and satisfying with every bite.
- Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A show-stopping seafood entrée featuring tender salmon packed with flavorful crab and shrimp stuffing.
These recipes are perfect for seafood lovers looking to explore even more bold and comforting flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What type of pasta works best for shrimp scampi?
Linguine, angel hair, or spaghetti are traditional choices, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
Is it necessary to use white wine?
No. You can substitute chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Can I add vegetables to shrimp scampi?
Absolutely. Try spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook it on medium-low heat and stir continuously. Burnt garlic turns bitter quickly.
This shrimp scampi recipe is a foolproof way to bring flavor, elegance, and ease to your table. With its buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and zesty lemon twist, it’s a meal that never disappoints. Give it a try tonight — and don’t forget to pin, share, or follow for more irresistible recipes!
Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Garlic Butter Pasta
Ingredients
- Large shrimp peeled & deveined
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
- Fresh garlic
- White wine or chicken broth
- Fresh lemon juice & zest
- Salt and black pepper
- Red pepper flakes optional
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Cooked spaghetti or linguine
- Reserved pasta water as needed
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté shrimp: Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
- Make garlic sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze with wine or broth and lemon juice. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Return shrimp and pasta to the pan. Toss with sauce, add parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Add pasta water as needed.
- Serve hot with extra parsley and lemon wedges.