Name: Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons salted butter; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 6 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons); ½ teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; 1 ½ pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 to 2 lemons)

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 8 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright, buttery flavors and that effortlessly brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table, Shrimp Scampi is your answer. This classic, quick-to-make dish features plump shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce with just the right hint of heat and a splash of fresh lemon to brighten every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or whipping up a weeknight favorite, Shrimp Scampi delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Shrimp Scampi lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in layering flavor: rich butter, fragrant garlic, and zesty lemon combine to create an irresistible sauce, while shrimp provide a tender and juicy protein base. The sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness that perfectly balances the richness.

4 tablespoons salted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base for the sauce that melts into the shrimp beautifully.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds depth and richness while helping to cook the garlic gently without burning.
6 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons): Infuses the dish with its signature fragrant aroma and robust flavor.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the shrimp perfectly.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Lends just a touch of heat to keep the dish exciting without overpowering it.
Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle spicy kick and complexity.
1 ½ pounds large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star ingredient, tender and sweet, perfectly suited to soak up the sauce.
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with color and a hint of fresh herbal notes.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, from 1 to 2 lemons: Balances the richness with a fresh, citrusy zing that elevates the whole dish.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Melt and Infuse

Start by heating the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter has melted completely, add the minced garlic. Cook it gently, stirring constantly, for about one minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. This step is essential—it releases the garlic’s aromatic oils and creates the flavorful base that makes Shrimp Scampi so addictive.

Step 2: Season and Sizzle

Next, sprinkle in the sea salt, red pepper flakes, and freshly cracked black pepper. These seasonings build the flavor layers, giving the dish its subtle heat and perfect savoriness. Then, add your prepared shrimp to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink, opaque, and beautifully cooked through. Don’t overcook the shrimp because they’ll become rubbery and lose their succulent texture.

Step 3: Brighten and Finish

Once the shrimp are just right, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. These final touches bring a burst of brightness and freshness that balances the buttery, garlicky richness and ties everything together. At this point, your Shrimp Scampi is ready to be served!

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi

Garnishes

Adding a little extra garnish can elevate your Shrimp Scampi from delicious to stunning. Sprinkle some additional fresh parsley on top for color and a fresh herbal note. You can also add a few lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze extra citrus over their dish. For a little something special, a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese complements the buttery sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Shrimp Scampi is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. Serve it over a bed of linguine or angel hair pasta to catch every bit of sauce. If you prefer something lighter, steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli provide a lovely contrast. Garlic bread makes a wonderful companion too, perfect for soaking up the buttery goodness left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to put a fun spin on your Shrimp Scampi? Try spooning it over creamy polenta or risotto for a comforting twist. Another playful idea is serving it in hollowed-out baguette boats for an impressive appetizer or party dish. For a lighter option, pile the shrimp and sauce over a bed of fresh greens to turn this into a vibrant salad that’s equally satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Shrimp Scampi leftovers, cool them promptly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days. Since the shrimp are already cooked, it’s best to eat leftovers quickly to maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezing

While you can freeze Shrimp Scampi, it’s generally not recommended because cooked shrimp tend to become rubbery and lose quality after freezing. If you must freeze it, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and use it within one month for the best taste.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Shrimp Scampi gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid the microwave if possible as it can make the shrimp tough and chewy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry before cooking. Excess moisture can dilute your sauce and affect the texture.

What can I substitute for fresh parsley?

If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use fresh cilantro or basil for a different but delicious twist. Dried parsley is also an option, but it won’t provide the same brightness.

Is Shrimp Scampi spicy?

Traditionally, Shrimp Scampi has just a mild kick from red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or leave it out altogether for a milder dish.

Can I make Shrimp Scampi without butter?

Butter is key to the luscious sauce, but if you need to avoid it, use extra olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

How long does it take to make Shrimp Scampi?

One of the best things about Shrimp Scampi is how quickly it comes together—about 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way Shrimp Scampi combines simple ingredients into an unforgettable dish. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it a staple you’ll want to keep in your recipe box forever. I encourage you to try making this at home—it’s incredibly rewarding and will almost certainly become one of your favorite go-to meals. Enjoy every buttery, garlicky, lemony bite!

Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need