Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter
Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is a dish that's simple but packed full of flavor. Juicy shrimp are cooked just right and tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s…
Tip: save now, cook later.Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is a dish that’s simple but packed full of flavor. Juicy shrimp are cooked just right and tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. The combination of tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and that buttery goodness makes every bite feel special.
I love making shrimp scampi when I want a quick dinner that still feels a little fancy. The garlic butter sauce is my favorite part—it’s easy to whip up and coats the shrimp perfectly. Sometimes I’ll add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a tiny kick, but it’s delicious even without. It always feels like a treat when this dish is on the table.
My go-to serving for shrimp scampi is over a bed of warm pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up all that buttery sauce. I also enjoy it with a green salad for a fresh contrast. This dish is one of those all-time favorites that friends and family always want me to make again because it’s so flavorful yet straightforward.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture, peeled and deveined. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp work well too—just thaw and dry them first to avoid extra moisture.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter gives that rich, creamy flavor. I like mixing olive oil with butter to prevent burning and add depth. For dairy-free, swap butter out with more olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must here for that bold, fragrant punch. Mince it finely so it cooks evenly and releases its aroma without burning.
White Wine or Broth: White wine adds a nice tang to balance the butter. If you prefer no alcohol, chicken broth or vegetable broth are great substitutes that keep the flavor light.
Parsley & Lemon: Fresh parsley brightens the dish while lemon juice adds a lovely fresh zing. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste; bottled lemon lacks the same freshness.
How Do I Avoid Overcooking Shrimp in Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp cooks very quickly, so the key is to keep a close eye on them to stay tender and juicy.
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking to help them sear nicely instead of steaming.
- Place shrimp in a single layer in the hot pan without crowding.
- Cook shrimp about 2 minutes per side—once they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done.
- Remove shrimp from heat as soon as they are opaque to prevent rubbery texture.
I like to cook the shrimp in batches if needed, to keep the pan hot and shrimp from overcrowding. Using medium heat helps garlic and butter develop flavor without burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking shrimp evenly and making the butter sauce.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – gentle on the skillet and great for stirring the garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic press or knife – to mince the garlic finely and release its full flavor.
- Citrus juicer – makes squeezing lemon juice easier and mess-free.
- Tongs – help flip shrimp quickly without breaking them apart.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of white fish for a tasty twist with similar cooking times.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet, tangy kick that pairs well with garlic butter.
- Stir in fresh spinach or baby arugula at the end for a pop of green and extra nutrients.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving to add a salty, cheesy layer of flavor.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10 minutes of cooking. In about 20 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious shrimp scampi ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp will cook better and get a nicer sear.
2. Cook Garlic and Shrimp:
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, till it smells fragrant but doesn’t brown. Then add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Flip Shrimp and Add Sauce:
Turn the shrimp over and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. Next, pour in the white wine or chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and get flavorful.
4. Finish with Butter and Parsley:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the chopped parsley. Toss everything gently so the shrimp get nicely coated with the garlic butter sauce. Taste and add salt or pepper if you need to.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the pan off the heat and serve the shrimp immediately. Lemon wedges on the side are perfect for an extra fresh squeeze. Try it over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up all the buttery garlic sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in cold water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine in This Recipe?
If you prefer to skip alcohol, chicken broth or vegetable broth are great alternatives that keep the sauce flavorful and light.
How Should I Store Leftover Shrimp Scampi?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Can I Make Shrimp Scampi Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp separately, then combine and reheat just before serving. This way, the shrimp stay tender and the sauce stays fresh.
