Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's nothing quite like the aroma of garlic butter sizzling in a hot pan, especially when it's paired with succulent shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a restaurant-quality dish that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the ultimate weeknight indulgence.

I first fell in love with shrimp scampi after ordering it at a seaside restaurant, but I soon realized how easy it was to recreate at home. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes when I want something impressive yet effortless. With a buttery, garlicky sauce and a hint of lemon, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to add a new staple to your dinner rotation. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor.

First, it's incredibly easy and fast. From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious, gourmet-quality meal on the table in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

It's also light yet satisfying. The combination of shrimp, garlic butter, and lemon creates a rich, flavorful sauce without feeling heavy. Pair it with pasta, rice, or even zoodles for a healthier twist.

Seafood lovers will appreciate how fresh and vibrant this dish tastes. The lemon juice brightens up the flavors, while the garlic butter coats the shrimp in a silky, irresistible sauce.

Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder. With minimal ingredients and simple cleanup, you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

If you’ve never made shrimp scampi at home before, don’t worry! This recipe is beginner-friendly and guarantees perfect results every time.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to an amazing Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi lies in the quality and balance of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Shrimp – Use large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh shrimp works best, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly. Look for wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor.

Butter – This is the heart of the sauce. Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level. A mix of butter and olive oil prevents the butter from burning.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is a must! It adds that signature bold, aromatic flavor to the dish. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best taste.

Lemon Juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter. Don’t skip this – it makes all the difference!

White Wine or Chicken Broth – Traditional shrimp scampi uses dry white wine to add depth to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, chicken broth works as a great substitute.

Parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. It’s the perfect finishing touch.

Red Pepper Flakes – A pinch of red pepper flakes gives the dish a slight kick. Adjust to your spice preference or leave it out for a milder version.

For equipment, you’ll need a large skillet to cook everything evenly and a pot for boiling pasta if you’re serving it with noodles.

How to Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi at home is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfect dish every time.

Start by preparing your shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, let them thaw in cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter melts, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same pan, add a little more butter and minced garlic. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant – be careful not to burn the garlic!

Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.

Add the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and the remaining butter. Stir until the butter melts completely and the sauce becomes silky.

Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly. Let them cook for another minute or two, just until warmed through.

If serving with pasta, toss cooked spaghetti or linguine directly into the pan, mixing it with the sauce so every bite is coated in that delicious garlic butter.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce!

Storage Options

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers if needed. Here’s how:

Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shrimp can become rubbery if reheated too much, so be gentle.

Freezing – Freezing is not recommended, as the butter-based sauce doesn’t hold up well, and shrimp can become tough when thawed.

Reheating – Warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or butter to refresh the sauce. Avoid using the microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is its versatility. Here are some easy ways to customize the dish to suit your tastes:

Low-Carb Option – Swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

Creamy Shrimp Scampi – Add ½ cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture. This creates a decadent variation that pairs wonderfully with fettuccine.

Spicy Version – Love a kick of heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Dairy-Free Alternative – Replace the butter with ghee or a dairy-free butter substitute, and use chicken broth instead of wine. The dish will still be deliciously flavorful.

Vegetable Add-Ins – Sauté some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms along with the garlic for added texture and nutrients.

No matter how you make it, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is sure to be a hit. Experiment with different ingredients and find your perfect version. Enjoy!

Print