Classic Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Garlic Butter
If you’re craving something rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor—but still want a recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes—this Classic Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Garlic Butter is your dream dish. Light yet indulgent, elegant but unfussy, this Italian-American favorite delivers on every front. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a fragrant sauce of garlic, lemon, butter, and white wine, then tossed with perfectly cooked pasta for a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests, treat yourself on a weeknight, or whip up something fast and fancy for date night, this dish has you covered. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary gem.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Shrimp Scampi is:
- 🍤 Quick and easy – Ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
- 🧄 Big on flavor – Bold garlic, tangy lemon, and luxurious butter come together beautifully.
- 🥂 Versatile – Great over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- 🍋 Customizable – Make it spicy or keep it mellow. Use wine or broth. It adapts to your taste.
- 🌿 Perfect for all cooks – Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe delivers reliable results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined 🍤
- 3 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth) 🍷
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter 🧈
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced 🍋
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice) 🍝
- Salt, for the pasta water
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Microplane or fine grater (for zesting lemon)
- Tongs or pasta fork
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti (or your preferred pasta) and cook until al dente according to package directions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water—this starchy liquid is gold for adjusting the sauce later.
Drain the pasta and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Sear for about 1–2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3️⃣ Build the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Pour in the white wine or broth, scraping up any flavorful brown bits from the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the alcohol cook off and the flavors concentrate.
Add the butter and let it melt completely, creating a silky sauce. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce bubble gently for 2 more minutes.
4️⃣ Combine and Serve
Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and gently mix everything together, letting the noodles soak up the buttery lemon goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of the reserved pasta water will loosen things perfectly.
Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley, and taste to adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen works well too—just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They only need 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery fast.
- Deglaze properly. When adding the wine or broth, use your wooden spoon to lift all those caramelized bits from the bottom. That’s where the flavor lives!
- Butter matters. Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt levels.
- Want it saucier? Add a touch more butter, wine, or pasta water.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
This classic is flexible and fun to make your own. Here are a few creative takes:
- Low-Carb Version: Swap spaghetti for spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.
- Add Veggies: Sauté spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms along with the garlic.
- Swap the Protein: Try scallops or chunks of lobster instead of shrimp.
- No Wine? No problem—use chicken broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for that acidic note.
What to Serve With Shrimp Scampi
Looking to build a full meal around this dish? Here are a few perfect pairings:
Side Dishes:
- Crusty garlic bread (to mop up the sauce!)
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus or broccolini
- Caprese salad with balsamic drizzle
Drink Pairings:
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay complements the lemony, buttery sauce beautifully.
- Sparkling Water: With lemon wedges for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
- Lemon-infused iced tea: A great balance for the garlicky richness.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid using the microwave for the shrimp—it can easily become overcooked and rubbery.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the shrimp and the buttery sauce may not hold up well after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Shrimp Scampi is best served fresh, but you can prep the shrimp, garlic, and parsley in advance. Cook pasta and shrimp just before serving for best results.
Is shrimp scampi spicy?
Not by default! Red pepper flakes add optional heat. Feel free to omit or adjust to your spice tolerance.
What kind of pasta works best?
Spaghetti is classic, but linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair work wonderfully. Just be mindful of cooking times.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery quickly. If using, just warm them briefly in the sauce and avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action
This Classic Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Garlic Butter is more than a quick dinner—it’s a celebration of bold, fresh flavors and simple cooking done right. From the zing of fresh lemon to the luxurious garlic butter sauce, every bite feels indulgent, yet this dish is light and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that deserves a permanent place in your weekly rotation.
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Buon appetito!
