Shrimp Scampi

Introduction

Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that features tender shrimp sautéed in a garlic, butter, and white wine sauce, finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley. The dish is elegant yet simple, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Traditionally served over pasta, Shrimp Scampi is light, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, offering a perfect balance of richness and brightness in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both elegant and quick to prepare. The shrimp cook in just minutes and absorb the flavors of garlic, butter, and wine, creating a luxurious sauce that clings to each piece. The bright lemon juice and fresh parsley add a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce, making each bite perfectly balanced.

It’s also versatile—I often serve it over linguine or spaghetti, but it’s just as delicious with zucchini noodles or even on its own for a low-carb option. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter and wine while the shrimp cooks is irresistible, and it always makes a dinner feel special without a lot of effort.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Shrimp Scampi is a must-try because it’s a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home in under 20 minutes. The combination of garlic, butter, and white wine creates a rich, flavorful sauce that elevates the naturally sweet shrimp. It’s quick, satisfying, and universally appealing—a dish that impresses guests, delights family, and satisfies seafood lovers.

Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread, Shrimp Scampi is a versatile and elegant meal that never fails to impress.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 5–10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 7–10 minutes
• Total Time: 15–20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 350 kcal
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Main Course / Seafood

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 8 oz (225 g) linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, if using. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add shrimp, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Deglaze the pan with white wine, simmer 1–2 minutes.
6. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley; toss to combine.
7. Serve shrimp and sauce over pasta or with crusty bread.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Prepare Shrimp:
   • Peel and devein shrimp if not already done. Pat dry for better searing.
2. Cook Pasta (Optional):
   • Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat Butter and Oil:
   • In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Cook Garlic:
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
5. Cook Shrimp:
   • Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
   • Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink, opaque, and just cooked through.
6. Deglaze Pan:
   • Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and simmer 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
7. Add Lemon and Parsley:
   • Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley for freshness and brightness.
8. Combine and Serve:
   • Toss shrimp and sauce with cooked pasta if desired. Serve immediately with extra parsley garnish.

How to Serve

• Over linguine or spaghetti with a drizzle of sauce.
• With crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• Paired with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Pat shrimp dry to ensure a good sear.
• Don’t overcook shrimp—they cook quickly and will become rubbery if left too long.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Variations

• Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
• Low-Carb Shrimp Scampi: Serve without pasta, over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
• Garlic Herb Shrimp Scampi: Add fresh thyme or basil for extra aromatic flavor.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Freezing: Cooked shrimp is best eaten fresh. Freezing is not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery and the sauce may separate.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Saucepan for pasta (if using)
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Shrimp cooks quickly and is best served immediately, but you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead and add shrimp when ready.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus are excellent additions.

Q: What wine works best?
A: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi is a quick, elegant, and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a garlic butter sauce, brightened with lemon and fresh parsley. Perfect over pasta, with rice, or on its own, it’s a versatile, satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, Shrimp Scampi is a timeless favorite that impresses every time.