Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Delve into the delicious world of Shrimp Scampi, a classic dish that combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Adeline Morris

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:52:15.971Z

This Shrimp Scampi Recipe is a timeless favorite that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the sweetness of fresh shrimp. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich and buttery garlic sauce that elevates the shrimp
  • Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
  • Perfectly pairs with pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Shrimp Scampi is a culinary delight that showcases a perfect harmony of flavors. The richness of the butter melds seamlessly with the sharpness of garlic and the acidity of lemon, creating a sauce that’s both luxurious and refreshing. The addition of white wine enhances this balance, adding depth and a hint of complexity. Each bite of shrimp is enveloped in this flavorful sauce, making it a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression.

The optional red pepper flakes introduce a gentle kick, providing a delightful contrast to the buttery sauce. This balance of heat and richness is what makes Shrimp Scampi a beloved dish among seafood enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Quick and Convenient Cooking

One of the standout features of Shrimp Scampi is its quick preparation time. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy cooks who still want to enjoy a gourmet meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward cooking process make it accessible for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs.

The versatility of this dish allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or cherry tomatoes, or swap in different types of seafood. This adaptability not only keeps the dish exciting but also ensures that it can suit various dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Scampi shines when paired with pasta or crusty bread, making it a complete meal that satisfies both hunger and craving. Linguine or spaghetti works beautifully, allowing the sauce to cling to the noodles and enhance every bite. For a lighter option, consider serving it over zucchini noodles or a bed of sautéed greens.

For those who prefer a heartier accompaniment, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, Shrimp Scampi is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For Serving

  • Cooked pasta or crusty bread

Gather all your ingredients to make this delicious dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

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

Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Add Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious Shrimp Scampi!

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Shrimp Scampi is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, reheated Shrimp Scampi still offers a delightful experience. Just be careful not to overcook the shrimp during reheating, as they can become tough.

Wine Pairing Recommendations

Pairing wine with Shrimp Scampi enhances the dining experience. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the buttery sauce and brings out the flavors of the shrimp. The acidity in these wines balances the richness of the dish, making each bite even more enjoyable.

For those who prefer red wine, a light-bodied option like Pinot Noir can work as well. The key is to choose a wine that won't overpower the delicate flavors of the shrimp and sauce, allowing the meal to shine.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of pasta goes best with Shrimp Scampi?

Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices that pair well with the sauce.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and add the shrimp just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Delve into the delicious world of Shrimp Scampi, a classic dish that combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Adeline Morris

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Shrimp Scampi

  1. 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  2. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  5. 1/4 cup dry white wine
  6. Juice of 1 lemon
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For Serving

  1. Cooked pasta or crusty bread

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 03

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 04

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.

Step 05

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 25g