There’s something irresistible about the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter—and when you add tender shrimp and a splash of lemon, you’ve got pure magic. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s elegant enough for date night but simple enough for a weeknight dinner, with juicy shrimp bathed in a garlicky, buttery, white wine sauce that clings beautifully to pasta or crusty bread.
I first made this dish on a whim one summer evening after finding a bag of shrimp in the freezer and half a bottle of white wine in the fridge. The result was so flavorful and effortless that it quickly became a family favorite. Now, it’s my go-to recipe for impressing guests or treating myself to a cozy seafood dinner without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine creates a sauce that’s both rich and bright, coating every bite of shrimp perfectly. The dish cooks in minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when you still want something special.
You’ll love how versatile it is—serve it with pasta for a comforting meal, over rice for a lighter twist, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. It’s naturally high in protein, full of bold flavor, and feels luxurious without being heavy.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of ½ lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 8 ounces cooked linguine or spaghetti for serving
- Optional garnish: lemon wedges and extra parsley
Pro Tips
- Use fresh shrimp if possible—they cook more evenly and taste better than frozen.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They only need 1–2 minutes per side; overcooking makes them tough.
- Deglaze with wine or broth. This lifts all the flavor from the pan into the sauce.
- Balance richness with acid. Lemon juice brightens up the buttery sauce.
- Toss pasta in the sauce. Don’t pour the sauce over—it coats better when mixed together.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Serving bowl or pasta plate
Substitutions and Variations
- No wine? Use chicken broth with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Spicy version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Herb lovers: Mix in basil, thyme, or chives for more freshness.
- Low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Extra indulgent: Add a splash of cream for a creamy scampi variation.
Make Ahead Tips
- Prep ingredients early: Peel and devein shrimp, mince garlic, and chop parsley in advance.
- Cook pasta ahead: If serving with pasta, cook and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Reheat gently: If making ahead, warm shrimp and sauce over low heat to prevent overcooking.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside on a plate.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 1 more minute, just until heated through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, spooning sauce over the top.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta.
- Pair with garlic bread or baguette to soak up the sauce.
- Add a side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley for color.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
Nutrition and Benefits
- High in protein: Shrimp provides lean, low-calorie protein.
- Rich in healthy fats: Olive oil and butter add satisfying richness.
- Low in carbs: Naturally fits into low-carb or keto-friendly diets.
- Loaded with flavor: Garlic, lemon, and herbs make it taste fresh and vibrant.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water.
2. What kind of white wine is best?
A dry white like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works perfectly.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil. The flavor will still be delicious.
4. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer a few extra minutes, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.
5. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
You can, but only heat them for about 30 seconds in the sauce to avoid rubbery texture.
6. What can I serve it with besides pasta?
Try rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just cook shrimp in batches so they sear properly instead of steaming.
Buttery, Garlicky, and Simply Irresistible
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi proves that simple ingredients can create restaurant-worthy results. Every bite bursts with buttery garlic flavor and a touch of lemon brightness, making it a timeless seafood favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish brings luxury to the dinner table in the easiest, most delicious way possible.