Garlicky, Buttery, and Ready in 30 Minutes
When you need a dinner that feels elegant but effortless, shrimp scampi is the answer. Juicy shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with a splash of lemon and white wine—this classic dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes, using simple pantry ingredients.
This easy shrimp scampi recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights at home, or anytime you want something fast, fresh, and deeply satisfying. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside vegetables—it never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi
This recipe has everything you want in a go-to dinner:
- Quick and easy—ready in about 25–30 minutes
- Big flavor with minimal ingredients
- Light yet indulgent buttery garlic sauce
- Versatile—serve with pasta, rice, or bread
- Perfect for busy nights or entertaining
It’s proof that simple cooking can still feel special.
What Is Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp scampi is an Italian-American classic featuring shrimp sautéed in butter, garlic, olive oil, white wine, and lemon, often finished with parsley. Despite its fancy reputation, it’s one of the easiest seafood dinners you can make at home.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Scampi
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving (Optional)
- Cooked spaghetti or linguine
- Crusty bread
- Steamed vegetables or salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Dry shrimp sear better and stay juicy.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant—do not brown.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Tip: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery—remove them as soon as they turn pink.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
To the same skillet, add white wine (or broth). Simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining butter. Let the sauce simmer gently until slightly reduced and glossy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Return shrimp to the skillet and toss in the sauce for 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Ideas
Shrimp scampi is delicious served:
- Over buttered spaghetti or linguine
- With crusty bread to soak up the sauce
- Over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
- With a side of garlic bread or salad
Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
- Use large shrimp for best texture
- Don’t overcook—shrimp cook fast
- Fresh garlic and lemon make a huge difference
- Use dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- Finish with butter for a silky sauce
Variations to Try
- Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Add ¼ cup heavy cream at the end
- Pasta Scampi: Toss cooked pasta directly into the skillet
- Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil
- Garlic Lover’s Version: Add 1–2 extra cloves of garlic
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or butter
- Avoid microwaving too long—shrimp can overcook quickly
Why This Recipe Works
This shrimp scampi recipe balances:
- Butter for richness
- Olive oil for structure
- Garlic and lemon for brightness
- Wine for depth
Together, they create a sauce that’s flavorful without being heavy.
Final Thoughts
Easy Shrimp Scampi is the ultimate dinner solution when you want something fast, flavorful, and impressive without extra effort. It’s a timeless classic that fits effortlessly into busy schedules while still feeling like a treat.
Once you make it at home, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered it out.
Simple. Elegant. Unforgettable.