Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Perfect Shrimp Scampi Recipe: Easy, Flavorful & Quick to Make

The Ultimate Guide to Making Shrimp Scampi Recipe at Home


  • Author: Camily
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

This Shrimp Scampi recipe is a classic Italian-American dish made with juicy, succulent shrimp, sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine and fresh lemon juice. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, served over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The flavors are well-balanced, with a blend of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy shrimp scampi recipe will quickly become a favorite


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp (1620 count), peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ½ cup white wine (or low-sodium chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Pasta or crusty bread, for serving (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with a generous sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Once the butter has melted and starts to foam, add the minced garlic.
  3. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Increase the heat slightly and add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
  2. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
  3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine

  1. Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
  2. Let the wine simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Red Pepper Flakes

  1. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and red pepper flakes, simmering for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

  1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly.
  2. Add the remaining butter and let it melt into the sauce, stirring until the sauce becomes rich and velvety.
  3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
  4. Serve the shrimp scampi over pasta or with crusty bread. Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.

Notes

  • For a richer sauce, add ¼ cup of heavy cream during step 5 for a creamy shrimp scampi variation.
  • If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.
  • Red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on your preference for spice. You can omit them for a milder dish or add more for extra heat.
  • This recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 200mg

Keywords: Perfect Shrimp Scampi Recipe: Easy, Flavorful & Quick to Make