Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is one of those meals that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. The shrimp are cooked in a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, a splash of lemon juice, and just the right touch of spice. It’s light, flavorful, and comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
You don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a restaurant-worthy dish. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy juicy, buttery shrimp tossed with tender pasta or served alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just treating yourself, this dish is always a win.
What You Need to Make Shrimp Scampi
A handful of ingredients come together to make this dish taste incredible. Here are the essentials:
- Shrimp: Large shrimp work best since they stay juicy and tender while absorbing all the flavors of the sauce.
- Garlic: A must for scampi! Freshly minced garlic brings bold, aromatic flavor.
- Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of these two creates a rich, silky sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Shrimp Scampi
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on if you like a more classic presentation. Pat them dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet. Add the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and let them cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
- Make the Sauce: Add lemon juice and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Stir to combine and let the flavors meld together.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve over pasta, with toasted bread, or as a standalone dish.
Ways to Switch It Up
Want to make your shrimp scampi a little different? Try these variations:
- Add White Wine: A splash of white wine gives the sauce a deeper, more complex flavor. Let it reduce slightly before adding the shrimp.
- Use Different Herbs: Instead of parsley, try fresh basil or chives for a unique twist.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a little heavy cream or Parmesan cheese for a richer, silkier sauce.
- Try Zucchini Noodles: If you want a low-carb version, swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is one of those meals that checks all the boxes—it’s fast, flavorful, and easy to make. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation:
- Quick to Prepare: From start to finish, this dish is ready in under 20 minutes.
- Packed with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce is simple but incredibly bold and satisfying.
- Works for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a last-minute dinner or a meal to impress guests, shrimp scampi always delivers.
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Best Side Dishes to Serve with Shrimp Scampi
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed asparagus or broccoli adds freshness and balance.
- Pasta or Rice: Toss the shrimp over linguine, angel hair pasta, or a bed of rice to make it a full meal.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp beautifully.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Equipment
- Skillet For cooking the shrimp and sauce
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup butter unsalted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes if using.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately over pasta, with toasted bread, or as a standalone dish.
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of white wine before stirring in the butter.
- If you prefer a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!