Name: Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Shrimp scampi is the epitome of simple elegance—a dish that’s as luxurious as it is easy to prepare. This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, lemon, butter, and white wine to create a dish that’s bursting with freshness and indulgence. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or hosting a lively family gathering, shrimp scampi is a surefire way to impress.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Serve it over a bed of silky pasta, pair it with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, or even spoon it over cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. And the best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. With its vibrant aroma and irresistible taste, this shrimp scampi is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this delightful dish:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined – The star of the recipe, tender and succulent.
3 tablespoon butter – For a creamy richness that coats every bite.
2 tablespoon olive oil – Adds depth and helps the butter from burning.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with bold, savory flavor.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – A touch of heat for those who like a kick.
½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth – Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
Juice of 1 lemon – Brightens up the dish with its zesty freshness.
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – A pop of green for both flavor and presentation.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – For an extra layer of creamy, nutty goodness.
Cooked pasta or crusty bread – Perfect accompaniments to soak up every drop of the flavorful sauce.

Substitutions and Additions

Looking to customize the recipe? Here are some ideas:

White wine alternative: Swap the wine for chicken broth if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
Parsley substitute: Use dried parsley if fresh isn’t available, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering.
Optional Additions:
- Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
- Stir in a dollop of heavy cream for a creamier sauce.
- Add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.

With these ingredients and tips, you’re just minutes away from creating a shrimp scampi that’s bursting with flavor, elegance, and joy. Let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

Preparation is the key to making your shrimp scampi experience smooth and enjoyable. Start by ensuring your shrimp are prepped and ready—this means peeled, deveined, and patted dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp cook better, allowing them to achieve that irresistible golden sear.

Next, gather all your ingredients and have them measured and ready. There’s nothing quite like cooking when everything is within reach. Mince your garlic, chop the parsley, and juice your lemon. If you’re using pasta, cook it al dente according to the package instructions so it’s ready to toss with the shrimp.

Finally, heat a large skillet over medium heat. This is where the magic begins. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing them to melt together into a golden, fragrant base for your dish. You’re now set to create a scampi masterpiece that’s simple, elegant, and brimming with flavor.

Cooking Process

Here’s where the magic truly happens. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a shrimp scampi that’s buttery, garlicky, and downright irresistible.

Sauté the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic to the preheated skillet, letting it sizzle in the butter and olive oil for about 1-2 minutes. This releases its bold, savory aroma. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick that elevates the dish.
Cook the Shrimp
Carefully place your shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side, then flip them over and cook for another 2 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque, with edges slightly curled. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside—you don’t want to overcook them.
Deglaze the Pan
Now it’s time to add the white wine or chicken broth. Pour it into the skillet and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly and concentrating the flavors.
Create the Sauce
Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley, infusing the sauce with brightness and freshness. Add the shrimp back into the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the luscious sauce. Allow everything to heat through for about 1 minute.

Your shrimp scampi is now ready to shine, a perfect harmony of buttery richness and citrusy zest.

Finishing Touches

The finishing touches are what elevate your shrimp scampi to the next level. If you’re a fan of cheese, sprinkle a bit of freshly grated Parmesan over the top for a nutty, creamy accent. Garnish with a little extra chopped parsley for that pop of vibrant green.

Serve your shrimp scampi immediately—over a tangle of angel hair pasta for a comforting classic, or with crusty bread to mop up the sauce. Either way, this dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, with every bite singing with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Occasions and Pairings

Shrimp scampi is a versatile dish that fits beautifully into a range of occasions. For a cozy weeknight dinner, serve it over your favorite pasta—angel hair or linguine works wonderfully to soak up the sauce. Hosting a dinner party? Present it family-style with a side of crusty bread and a crisp green salad for a complete, elegant meal.

Looking for lighter options? Serve shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or even over a bed of wilted spinach for a low-carb alternative. Its fresh, zesty flavor also pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Presentation Ideas

Style your shrimp scampi to wow your guests. Use a large, shallow bowl to showcase the golden shrimp glistening in the buttery sauce. Garnish generously with parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. For added flair, place slices of toasted garlic bread alongside for dipping—simple, elegant, and utterly inviting.

Recipe FAQ

Cooking Tips

How to Avoid Overcooking Shrimp
Shrimp cook remarkably fast, so keeping an eye on them is key. Once they turn pink and opaque with slightly curled edges, they’re done—this usually takes about 2 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to tough, rubbery shrimp, so remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re ready. You can always return them to the pan briefly at the end to warm them through if needed.

Adjusting Sauce Consistency
If your sauce feels too thick, simply add a splash of pasta water, chicken broth, or white wine to loosen it up. For a richer sauce, whisk in an extra pat of butter. To thicken a sauce that’s too runny, allow it to simmer for a few minutes, letting some of the liquid evaporate naturally.

Troubleshooting

Too Salty Sauce
Accidentally gone heavy-handed with the salt? Don’t worry. Adding a bit of unsalted broth, water, or even a touch of cream can help dilute the saltiness. Be sure to taste and adjust before serving.

Dry Shrimp
If your shrimp end up dry, it’s likely due to overcooking. While you can’t fully reverse this, tossing the shrimp in the buttery sauce can help rehydrate them slightly. To prevent this next time, follow the cooking tips above to ensure your shrimp stay tender and juicy.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

To store leftover shrimp scampi, transfer it to an airtight container once it’s cooled. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to freeze without the pasta to maintain the best texture.

Make-Ahead Instructions

For busy days, you can prep parts of the recipe in advance. Peel and devein the shrimp, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley up to a day ahead. Store everything in separate containers in the fridge, so you’re ready to cook at a moment’s notice.

Reheating and Serving

When reheating shrimp scampi, low and slow is the way to go. Warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the sauce from reducing too much. Avoid using the microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp and alter their texture.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Classic Shrimp Scampi recipe, you might enjoy these similar dishes:

Garlic Mushroom Grilled Cheese: A savory sandwich loaded with garlic flavor.
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Creamy pasta with a garlicky twist.
Grilled Shrimp Salad: A light and refreshing shrimp dish perfect for summer.
French Onion Chicken Bake: A comforting chicken recipe with rich, caramelized onion flavor.

Conclusion

Shrimp scampi is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly magical. With its bright, garlicky aroma and buttery, lemon-infused sauce, this dish is a celebration of flavor, elegance, and ease. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, shrimp scampi is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Why not give this recipe a try? You’ll love how effortless it is to create a dish that looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality masterpiece. Share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own variations. After all, the joy of cooking lies in making it your own!