Introduction
Indulge in the luxurious taste of restaurant-quality Shrimp Scampi right at home! Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of white wine and fresh lemon juice. Ready in just 15 minutes, this elegant dish is perfect for date nights, special occasions, or when you want to turn an ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍤 Quick & Elegant – Fancy enough for company, easy enough for weeknights
- 🧄 Garlic Lover’s Dream – Rich, buttery, and packed with garlic flavor
- ⏱️ 15-Minute Meal – From pan to plate in record time
- 🍋 Bright & Fresh – Lemon adds the perfect zesty finish
Ingredients You Will Need
(Serves 4)
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- 8 oz linguine or angel hair pasta
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let garlic brown).
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour white wine and lemon juice into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed to thin the sauce. Stir in fresh parsley.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Divide among plates, garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Serve with Parmesan if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- 🍤 Don’t Overcook Shrimp – They cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone
- 🧄 Fresh Garlic – Use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor
- 🍷 Quality Wine – Use a dry white wine you’d enjoy drinking
- 🍋 Fresh Lemon – Bottled juice can’t compare to fresh-squeezed
Ingredient Substitutions
- Shrimp: Use scallops or chicken instead
- Wine: Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth
- Pasta: Serve with crusty bread or over zucchini noodles
- Butter: Olive oil works for a lighter version
Serving Suggestions
- With a crisp green salad
- Alongside roasted asparagus or broccoli
- Paired with garlic bread for dipping
- With a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is the ultimate quick yet sophisticated meal that never fails to impress! With its tender shrimp, rich buttery sauce, and bright lemon notes, it’s a dish that feels luxurious but is surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for busy nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen!