There’s something magical about shrimp scampi. The way the succulent shrimp soak up the buttery, garlicky sauce, the way a splash of white wine and lemon juice adds the perfect zing—it’s a simple yet elegant dish that never fails to impress. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
If you’ve ever been to an Italian-American restaurant, you’ve probably seen shrimp scampi on the menu. But did you know this restaurant-quality dish is incredibly easy to make at home? The best part? It’s budget-friendly, customizable, and doesn’t require fancy ingredients.
Shrimp scampi is similar to garlic butter shrimp pasta, another crowd-pleaser that brings bold flavors to the table. However, what sets shrimp scampi apart is its irresistible balance of buttery richness and citrusy brightness. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a must-try. Stick around to learn how to make this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen!
What is Shrimp Scampi?
You might be wondering—what’s up with the name “scampi”? Isn’t that just shrimp? Well, not exactly! Traditionally, “scampi” refers to a type of small lobster called langoustine, often cooked in a buttery garlic sauce. But over time, the name evolved, and now “shrimp scampi” simply means shrimp prepared in the classic scampi-style sauce.
Funny how food names evolve, right? It’s kind of like how “chicken parmesan” doesn’t actually have parmesan in the breading—but we roll with it! As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”, and trust me, this dish is a surefire way to win anyone over. So, are you ready to whip up this buttery, garlicky masterpiece? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Quick & Easy – This dish comes together in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Cost-Saving – Making shrimp scampi at home is way cheaper than ordering it at a restaurant.
- Flavor Explosion – The buttery garlic sauce, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of white wine create a flavor-packed dish.
If you love garlic butter shrimp, this recipe takes it to the next level. Ready to give it a try?
How to Make Shrimp Scampi
Quick Overview
Shrimp scampi is all about simplicity and bold flavors. The shrimp are sautéed in butter, garlic, and white wine, then finished with lemon juice and parsley. The whole dish is ready in less than 20 minutes.
Key Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi
- 1 lb shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook pasta (if using) according to package instructions.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove from pan.
- Add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in white wine and let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add shrimp back to the pan, squeeze in lemon juice, sprinkle red pepper flakes and parsley.
- Toss everything together and cook for 1 more minute.
- Serve hot with pasta or crusty bread.
What to Serve Shrimp Scampi With
- Pasta – Linguine or spaghetti soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the buttery sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables – Asparagus or zucchini make a great side.
- White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Shrimp Scampi
- Use Fresh Garlic – Pre-minced garlic lacks the punchy flavor of fresh cloves.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – They cook fast, so keep an eye on them.
- Customize the Sauce – Want it richer? Add a splash of heavy cream.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Best stored separately from pasta to prevent sogginess.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding butter or broth.