EASY GARLIC BUTTER SHRIMP SCAMPI – CLASSIC ITALIAN SEAFOOD RECIPE

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi – Quick & Flavorful Seafood Delight

A classic Italian-American dish, shrimp scampi features succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with white wine and lemon. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this seafood favorite is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🦐 Juicy, tender shrimp infused with a rich garlic butter sauce.
🍋 Bright and zesty flavors from fresh lemon and white wine.
⏱️ Quick & easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
🍝 Versatile – Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

What Is Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp scampi is a classic seafood dish where shrimp are sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with white wine, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Often served over pasta or alongside crusty bread, this dish is loved for its rich, buttery taste and light, citrusy finish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi:

✅ 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
✅ 3 tbsp unsalted butter
✅ 2 tbsp olive oil
✅ 4 cloves garlic, minced
✅ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
✅ ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
✅ 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
✅ 1 tsp lemon zest
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
✅ Grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

✅ 8 oz (225g) pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
✅ Crusty bread (to soak up the sauce)

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

🔸 Prepare the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with salt and black pepper.

🔸 Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Remove from the pan and set aside.

🔸 Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, add butter, remaining olive oil, and garlic.
Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in red pepper flakes, then pour in white wine and lemon juice.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

🔸 Combine Everything
Return the shrimp to the pan and toss in the sauce.
Add lemon zest and fresh parsley, stirring to coat evenly.

🔸 Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately over pasta or with crusty bread.
Garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions

🍝 Over Pasta – A classic way to enjoy shrimp scampi!
🥖 With Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
🥗 With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the rich flavors.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

✔️ Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
✔️ Don’t overcook the shrimp – it should be just pink and tender.
✔️ Deglaze the pan with wine to enhance the depth of flavor.
✔️ Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest taste.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

🔹 Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them first under cold water and pat dry before cooking.

🔹 What Can I Use Instead of Wine?
You can substitute with chicken broth or even water with a splash of vinegar.

🔹 Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Shrimp scampi is best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead for quick cooking.

Final Thoughts 🦐

Garlic butter shrimp scampi is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try this classic recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Want More?

Love seafood? Dive into our Seafood Recipes and explore more mouthwatering dishes from the ocean!