When you’re craving a meal that feels gourmet but comes together in minutes, nothing beats shrimp scampi. This shrimp scampi recipe easy guide will show you how to make a restaurant-quality dish right at home. With juicy shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and a splash of lemon, it’s a recipe you’ll return to over and over again. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, a special date night, or hosting friends, shrimp scampi is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
In this article, you’ll learn how to cook shrimp scampi step by step, tips for getting the perfect flavor, side dish pairings, and answers to common questions.
What Is Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring shrimp sautéed in butter, garlic, lemon juice, and white wine (or broth). The sauce is light yet flavorful, pairing perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. The best part? It takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish.
When people search for “shrimp scampi recipe easy,” they want a simple, foolproof method that doesn’t sacrifice taste. That’s exactly what this recipe delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15–20 minutes.
- Few Ingredients – Uses pantry staples like butter, garlic, and lemon.
- Versatile – Pair it with pasta, rice, or serve as an appetizer.
- Restaurant Flavor at Home – Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Recipe Easy
Here’s what you’ll need for the best shrimp scampi:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails optional)
- 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti, cooked al dente (optional if serving with pasta)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Dry shrimp cook more evenly and allow the sauce to cling better.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta (Optional)
If serving with pasta, start boiling salted water and cook linguine or spaghetti until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not burn). Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return shrimp to the skillet. Add red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and parsley. Toss gently until shrimp are coated. If serving with pasta, add cooked linguine and toss with a splash of reserved pasta water to bring it all together.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
- Use Large Shrimp – They stay juicy and don’t overcook as quickly.
- Don’t Overcook – Shrimp turn rubbery if cooked too long; 2 minutes per side is enough.
- Choose the Right Wine – A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.
- Balance Flavors – Adjust lemon juice, salt, and butter to your taste.
What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi
This easy shrimp scampi recipe is versatile and pairs with many sides:
- Pasta – Linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair are classic choices.
- Rice or Risotto – Soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for mopping up that garlicky butter sauce.
- Vegetables – Steamed asparagus, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad complement the richness.
Variations of Shrimp Scampi Recipe Easy
- Low-Carb Option – Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Version – Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a rich, velvety sauce.
- Herb Lovers – Add fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery after thawing.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or butter; avoid microwaving too long to prevent overcooking shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Shrimp Scampi
1. Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?
Yes! Substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version that’s just as flavorful.
2. What shrimp works best?
Large or extra-large shrimp (16–20 per pound) are ideal because they cook quickly and stay juicy.
3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
4. How do I thicken the sauce?
You can reduce it longer or add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky finish.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, with Pasta)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
(Nutrition varies depending on pasta and portion size.)
Final Thoughts on Shrimp Scampi Recipe Easy
If you’ve been searching for a shrimp scampi recipe easy, this one delivers everything you need: speed, simplicity, and unforgettable flavor. With buttery garlic shrimp, a touch of lemon, and pasta (if you like), it’s the perfect dinner any night of the week.
So grab a skillet, a bag of shrimp, and just 20 minutes—you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant but was made right in your kitchen.