Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of garlic butter shrimp scampi sizzling in the pan. The combination of juicy shrimp, rich buttery sauce, and fragrant garlic creates a dish that's both luxurious and incredibly simple to make.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with shrimp scampi during a beachside vacation, where every restaurant seemed to have their own version. But after tweaking and perfecting the recipe at home, I discovered how easy it is to recreate that restaurant-quality flavor in just 20 minutes. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that feels fancy but is surprisingly effortless to make. This shrimp scampi is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute dinners, or even a romantic date night at home.

First off, it’s incredibly quick. From start to finish, this dish comes together in about 20 minutes, making it one of the fastest ways to get a gourmet meal on the table.

It’s also amazingly flavorful. The combination of garlic, butter, white wine, and a hint of lemon creates a sauce that’s both rich and refreshing, perfectly complementing the tender shrimp.

Budget-friendly? Absolutely! While shrimp can be a splurge, this recipe requires just a handful of pantry staples, making it an affordable indulgence compared to restaurant prices.

And let’s not forget the versatility. You can serve shrimp scampi in so many ways—over pasta, alongside roasted vegetables, or even as an appetizer with toasted bread for dipping.

Once you try this easy, flavorful dish, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of shrimp scampi comes from its simple yet bold ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing richness, acidity, and umami flavors.

Shrimp is the star of the dish, so quality matters. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture. Fresh shrimp work beautifully, but frozen shrimp are just as good—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Butter and olive oil form the base of the sauce. Using both adds depth of flavor—olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning, while the butter adds richness. For the best results, use unsalted butter so you can control the seasoning.

Garlic is essential for that signature scampi flavor. Freshly minced garlic is always best, as it releases the most aromatic oils. You’ll need a generous amount—at least four cloves—to infuse the sauce with bold, garlicky goodness.

White wine or chicken broth adds a layer of acidity and depth. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully, but if you prefer to cook without alcohol, chicken broth makes a great substitute without compromising flavor.

Lemon juice and parsley bring brightness to the dish. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, while fresh parsley adds a fresh, slightly peppery contrast.

A large skillet is the only special equipment you need, preferably a stainless steel or cast-iron pan to get the best sear on the shrimp.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Making shrimp scampi is incredibly simple, but a few key steps will ensure you get the best flavor and texture.

Start by prepping your shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, let them thaw completely, then pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly instead of steaming in the pan. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the butter is melted and the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook—shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth), stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Stir in the remaining butter and fresh lemon juice, allowing the butter to melt into the sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing to coat them in the garlicky, buttery goodness. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for the perfect finishing touch.

This entire process takes less than 15 minutes, making it one of the easiest yet most impressive dishes you can whip up in no time.

Storage Options

Shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage will help maintain its flavor and texture.

For refrigeration, place the cooled shrimp and sauce in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Since shrimp tend to toughen when reheated, it's best to enjoy leftovers sooner rather than later.

Freezing is not recommended for fully cooked shrimp scampi, as the texture can become rubbery. However, you can freeze the garlic butter sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before adding freshly cooked shrimp.

To reheat, warm the shrimp gently over low heat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about shrimp scampi is how adaptable it is. Whether you're looking for dietary swaps or flavor twists, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish.

For a low-carb version, swap out pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These alternatives soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully while keeping things light.

If you prefer a creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce just before returning the shrimp to the pan. This creates a richer, more indulgent scampi that pairs especially well with pasta.

No white wine on hand? Chicken broth or vegetable broth makes a great substitute. You can also use a splash of fresh lemon juice for added acidity.

Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. This adds a subtle heat that balances out the richness of the butter.

You can even swap out the shrimp for scallops, lobster, or chicken if you want a different protein. The garlic butter sauce pairs well with just about anything!

No matter how you customize it, this garlic butter shrimp scampi is a foolproof recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a matter of minutes. So grab your skillet and get ready to impress—your taste buds will thank you!

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