Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich aroma of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi filling your kitchen. This dish is the perfect blend of juicy shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and a hint of lemon, creating a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes.

I first fell in love with shrimp scampi during a summer trip to the coast, where every seafood restaurant seemed to have their own take on it. After some trial and error at home, I perfected this version—one that’s just as indulgent but easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to add a new go-to recipe to your collection! This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is packed with flavor, comes together quickly, and requires just a handful of ingredients.

First off, it’s incredibly fast and easy to make. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you need something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

This dish is also light yet satisfying. The combination of shrimp, butter, and lemon gives you that rich, comforting taste without feeling overly heavy. Plus, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread for soaking up the extra sauce.

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll appreciate how the shrimp stay plump and juicy, thanks to a quick sear in butter and olive oil. Cooking them just right ensures they don’t turn rubbery, making every bite a delight.

And let’s not forget versatility. Whether you want to add a little heat with red pepper flakes or swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles, this recipe is easily adaptable to suit your tastes.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe keeps things simple, letting the bold flavors of fresh ingredients shine.

Shrimp – Large or extra-large shrimp work best for this dish. Fresh is always great, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Butter and Olive Oil – A mix of butter and olive oil creates the perfect base for the sauce. Butter adds richness, while olive oil helps prevent it from burning at high heat.

Garlic – The heart of this dish! Freshly minced garlic is key to getting that deep, aromatic flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

White Wine or Chicken Broth – A splash of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, deglazes the pan and adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer to skip the alcohol, chicken broth works beautifully as a substitute.

Lemon Juice and Zest – Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter. A little zest adds an extra punch of citrusy freshness.

For equipment, a large skillet is essential for getting a good sear on the shrimp without overcrowding the pan.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Start by cooking your pasta, if using. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining—it’ll help thicken the sauce later if needed.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter, swirling them together as the butter melts. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Let them cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more butter and toss in the garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Stir in the lemon juice and zest, then return the shrimp to the pan. Toss everything together, letting the shrimp soak up that incredible sauce. If you’re serving with pasta, add it now along with a splash of reserved pasta water to help everything coat evenly.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an optional pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges and enjoy!

Storage Options

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them properly to keep the shrimp tender and flavorful.

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Since shrimp can become rubbery when reheated, it’s best to warm them gently.

To reheat, place the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally just until warmed through—avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Freezing is not recommended, as shrimp tend to lose their texture when thawed and reheated.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is how easy it is to customize!

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

If you love spicy food, add more red pepper flakes or even a touch of Cajun seasoning for a bold kick.

Looking for a richer sauce? Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy garlic butter shrimp scampi.

No white wine on hand? Chicken broth is a great substitute, or you can even use seafood stock for extra depth.

Want to make it heartier? Toss in cherry tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrients without overpowering the dish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—this recipe is forgiving and perfect for adapting to your taste!

Enjoy this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with a glass of crisp white wine and a side of crusty bread to soak up that incredible sauce. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again!

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