Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi sizzling in a hot pan. The combination of plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of lemon is simply mouthwatering. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that rich, flavorful sauce.

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I first discovered this recipe on a summer vacation by the coast, where fresh seafood was always on the menu. The simplicity of this dish amazed me—just a handful of ingredients transformed into something restaurant-worthy in minutes. Now, it’s my go-to for an easy yet impressive dinner, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal that feels elegant but takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is exactly what you need.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to fall in love with this dish for all the right reasons. It’s easy, quick, and packed with bold flavors that come together effortlessly.

First, this recipe is incredibly fast and easy. From start to finish, it takes just 15 minutes, making it a lifesaver for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also restaurant-quality without the high price tag. Shrimp scampi is often a pricey menu item, but making it at home costs a fraction of the price—and tastes just as amazing.

The ingredients are simple and fresh, yet they create a depth of flavor that’s both rich and bright. The combination of butter, garlic, lemon, and white wine (or broth) perfectly complements the sweet shrimp.

Best of all, this dish is versatile. Serve it over pasta, with rice, or alongside toasted bread for an easy appetizer. You can also customize the spice level or swap ingredients to fit your preferences.

Whether you're making a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner for guests, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi delivers every time.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Every component plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Shrimp is the star of this recipe, so choosing the right kind matters. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear.

Garlic is what gives this dish its signature aroma and depth of flavor. Fresh garlic is best—use at least four cloves, finely minced, to infuse the butter with its irresistible taste. If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add more.

Butter and olive oil work together to create the perfect sauce. Butter adds richness, while olive oil prevents it from burning. Use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning.

White wine adds a touch of acidity and depth. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, chicken broth is a great substitute that still provides flavor.

Lemon juice and zest bring freshness and balance to the buttery sauce. The acidity cuts through the richness, brightening up the entire dish. Always use fresh lemons for the best results.

If serving with pasta, have linguine or spaghetti ready to soak up all that delicious sauce. You’ll also need a large skillet to cook the shrimp evenly and a wooden spoon to stir everything together.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is as easy as it gets. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and one tablespoon of butter, letting it melt until it starts to bubble. Meanwhile, season your shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Once the butter is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until they start to turn pink. Flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the remaining butter. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be golden, not brown.

Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavors. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, then return the shrimp to the pan. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated in the sauce.

If serving with pasta, add cooked linguine or spaghetti directly into the skillet, tossing to combine. The pasta will absorb the flavorful sauce, making every bite irresistible. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired.

This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute yet impressive dinner.

Storage Options

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent the shrimp from overcooking. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

If you've made extra sauce, you can freeze it separately for up to 1 month. Simply thaw and reheat before adding fresh shrimp for a quick meal.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for easy modifications based on your preferences or dietary needs.

For a creamy twist, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end for a rich, indulgent version of shrimp scampi.

If you love spice, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning to give the dish a bold kick.

For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp scampi over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta. The sauce pairs beautifully with lighter alternatives.

If you don't have fresh shrimp, scallops make a fantastic substitute. They cook just as quickly and absorb the garlicky butter sauce just as well.

Want a deeper flavor? Swap white wine for a splash of dry vermouth, which adds complexity to the sauce.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is one of those recipes you'll want to make again and again. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a fun variation, it's guaranteed to be a hit every time. Enjoy!

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