Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Shrimp scampi is one of those magical dishes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, yet it comes together in less than 20 minutes. The combination of tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and a hint of lemon creates an elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing dinner guests.
This Italian-inspired classic is light, flavorful, and absolutely crave-worthy. You’ll love how simple the ingredients are, yet how impressive the final result looks on your plate.
Nutrition Facts
Per 100 grams of shrimp scampi (without pasta):
- Calories: 145 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact proportions and cooking method used.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready. Peel and devein your shrimp, patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Mince your garlic finely, squeeze your lemon juice fresh if possible, and chop your parsley.
Having everything prepared ahead of time makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
2. Heat the Skillet
Place a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat for about one minute until it shimmers slightly. A properly heated skillet ensures your shrimp will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden exterior rather than steaming in the pan.
3. Sear the Shrimp
Once your skillet is hot, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 1-2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.
Then flip each shrimp and cook for another minute on the other side. Remove the cooked shrimp to a clean plate and set aside temporarily.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Base
Reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add your minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter instead of deliciously aromatic. The nutty, golden aroma will tell you when it’s perfectly cooked.
5. Deglaze with Wine and Lemon
Pour the dry white wine into the skillet, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits stuck to the pan. These flavorful bits add depth to your sauce.
Let the wine reduce slightly for about 1-2 minutes, then add the fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes for that signature zing.
6. Add the Final Touches
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter until completely melted and incorporated. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the silky sauce.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and cook for just 1-2 minutes more to warm everything through.
7. Finish and Garnish
Transfer your shrimp scampi to a serving dish and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Add lemon zest if you’re using it for an extra citrus punch and visual appeal.
Serve immediately while the sauce is still warm and the shrimp are perfectly tender.
Tips for Variations or Side Dishes
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. For a lighter version, replace some of the butter with extra olive oil or add a splash of clam juice for authenticity.
If you prefer more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a fresh chili pepper. For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone at the end.
This dish pairs beautifully with angel hair pasta, linguine, or even spaghetti. You can also serve it over creamy risotto, alongside roasted vegetables, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
A fresh green salad makes a lovely light accompaniment to balance the richness of the butter sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp scampi is best served immediately while the sauce is warm and luxurious. Arrange the shrimp in a shallow bowl and pour that gorgeous garlic butter sauce generously over the top.
Serve with your chosen starch on the side or tossed together, depending on your preference.
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with this dish. Garnish each plate with extra fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for both flavor and presentation.
This elegant dish is restaurant-quality but feels casual enough for a relaxed dinner at home.
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly for scampi. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator beforehand and pat them dry before cooking. Make sure to buy shrimp that have already been peeled and deveined to save yourself preparation time.
2. What if I don’t have dry white wine?
You can substitute the white wine with chicken broth, seafood stock, or even additional lemon juice. The wine adds a specific depth of flavor, but these alternatives will still create a delicious sauce that’s very palatable.
3. How do I know when the shrimp is cooked properly?
Shrimp cooks very quickly and becomes tough if overcooked. Cook until the shrimp turns opaque and pink, with no gray remaining. The entire cooking process typically takes only 3-4 minutes total, so watch carefully.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Shrimp scampi is best served fresh, but you can prep all your ingredients in advance. However, cooking the shrimp immediately before serving ensures the best texture and flavor, as reheating can make them rubbery.
5. What should I do with leftover sauce?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reuse it over pasta, vegetables, or even chicken. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop without boiling.
