Shrimp Scampi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a garlic-butter sauce with white wine, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a quick and elegant meal that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (large, peeled and deveined)
unsalted butter
olive oil
garlic (minced)
dry white wine (or chicken broth)
lemon juice
red pepper flakes (optional)
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley (chopped)
linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)
lemon wedges (for garnish)

directions

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and half the butter over medium heat.

Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.

Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.

Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Add the white wine and lemon juice to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Stir in the remaining butter and red pepper flakes (if using).

Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately over pasta or with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add halved cherry tomatoes for color and freshness.
Use shallots instead of garlic for a milder flavor.
Substitute the wine with seafood or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Stir in cooked pasta directly into the sauce for a one-pan meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

What pasta works best with shrimp scampi?
Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair are classic choices.

Is white wine necessary?
It adds flavor, but you can use broth as a substitute.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, just add extra red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I prepare shrimp scampi ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead and cook quickly when ready.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi is a fast, flavorful, and versatile dish that feels indulgent without the fuss. Whether served over pasta or with a hunk of warm bread to soak up the buttery sauce, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that’s as impressive as it is easy to make.

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