This Shrimp Scampi is a quick and elegant seafood dinner made with juicy shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter lemon sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for an easy restaurant-quality meal at home.
Shrimp Scampi
Easy Shrimp Scampi with juicy shrimp, garlic butter, fresh lemon, and parsley. A quick 20-minute seafood dinner perfect over pasta.
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter.
- Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth or white cooking wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving.
Notes
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp or they will become rubbery.
- Fresh garlic gives the richest flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice is recommended over bottled juice.
- Serve immediately while the sauce is hot.
Variations
- Add cooked linguine or angel hair pasta.
- Stir in fresh spinach at the end.
- Add grated Parmesan for a creamy twist.
- Include cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
- Finish with extra lemon zest for brighter flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over linguine or spaghetti.
- Pair with fluffy white rice.
- Enjoy with crusty garlic bread.
- Serve alongside roasted asparagus or broccoli.
- Pair with a crisp green salad.
Tips
- Pat the shrimp dry before cooking for better browning.
- Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the lemon if needed.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings
Serves: 4
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 315
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 620mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
- Yes. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What pasta goes best with shrimp scampi?
- Linguine, spaghetti, angel hair, and fettuccine are all excellent choices because they soak up the buttery garlic sauce.
Can I make Shrimp Scampi without wine?
- Absolutely. Chicken broth or seafood broth makes an excellent substitute.
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
- Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly and become chewy.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
- Yes. Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Can I prepare Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
- The sauce can be prepared ahead, but the shrimp should be cooked just before serving to keep them tender and juicy.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi is a simple yet elegant meal packed with buttery garlic flavor and bright lemon. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with warm bread, this easy 20-minute recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
