Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender shrimp with a luscious garlic, butter, and white wine sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. Tossed with pasta or served alongside crusty bread, Shrimp Scampi is a dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.
If you’re looking for more ways to enjoy shrimp, try our Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta, a spicy and creamy dish that’s packed with bold Southern flavors. Together, these recipes showcase shrimp’s incredible versatility, offering delicious options for any occasion.
This Shrimp Scampi recipe is simple to prepare and requires just a handful of pantry staples. The combination of aromatic garlic, bright lemon juice, and the subtle complexity of white wine creates a sauce that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Shrimp Scampi is a dish that’s easy to fall in love with. Its combination of garlicky, buttery flavors with tender shrimp creates a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The addition of lemon juice and white wine brightens the dish, making it taste fresh and balanced.
One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. Shrimp Scampi comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. Despite its quick preparation, the dish has a rich, luxurious quality that makes it feel special.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Serve it over pasta for a hearty meal, pair it with roasted vegetables for a lighter option, or enjoy it as an appetizer with crusty bread for dipping. Shrimp Scampi is adaptable to your preferences and guarantees a satisfying dining experience every time.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Additions:
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti, cooked and drained
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Prepare the shrimp.
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the shrimp.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the garlic.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze with wine.
Pour the white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer and let the wine reduce by half, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Add the lemon juice and seasonings.
Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Return the shrimp to the skillet.
Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss them in the sauce until heated through, about 1–2 minutes.
Step 7: Finish with parsley and serve.
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the shrimp and serve immediately. Pair with cooked pasta or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ingredient Background
Shrimp
Large shrimp are the star of this dish, offering a tender, juicy bite that absorbs the flavors of the garlic and butter sauce. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used—just ensure they’re properly thawed and dried before cooking.
Garlic
Garlic is a key ingredient in Shrimp Scampi, providing its signature aromatic base. Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the sauce.
White Wine
Dry white wine adds a subtle acidity and depth of flavor to the sauce. If you prefer to omit alcohol, substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth and a splash of white vinegar.
Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
Parsley
Chopped parsley adds a burst of freshness and color to the finished dish. For extra vibrancy, garnish with additional parsley just before serving.
Technique Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley enhance the flavor and presentation of this dish. Avoid using bottled lemon juice or dried parsley if possible.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, usually in 2–3 minutes. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on their color and texture.
Deglaze the Pan
Deglazing the pan with white wine ensures all the flavorful bits from cooking the shrimp and garlic are incorporated into the sauce.
Use High-Quality Butter
Unsalted, high-quality butter enhances the richness of the sauce without making it overly salty.
Toss with Pasta
If serving with pasta, reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water to add to the sauce. This helps the sauce adhere to the pasta for a cohesive dish.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Shrimp Scampi Appetizer
Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks alongside a bowl of the sauce for dipping. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the garlic-butter sauce.
Over Vegetables
Pour the shrimp and sauce over roasted zucchini, asparagus, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
Shrimp Scampi Tacos
Use the shrimp as a filling for tacos, adding shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of the garlic-butter sauce for a creative twist.
Shrimp Scampi Risotto
Mix the shrimp and sauce into a creamy risotto for a comforting and luxurious main dish.
Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Top a pre-baked pizza crust with the shrimp, garlic-butter sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly, then garnish with parsley.
Freezing and Storing Shrimp Scampi
Storing Leftovers
To keep leftover Shrimp Scampi fresh, transfer the shrimp and sauce to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened during refrigeration, add a splash of water, chicken broth, or white wine to restore its consistency. Avoid overheating the shrimp, as this can cause them to become rubbery.
Freezing Shrimp Scampi
If you plan to store Shrimp Scampi for a longer period, freezing is a great option. To maintain the best texture and flavor, freeze the shrimp and sauce separately. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag and the sauce in an airtight container. Be sure to label and date the containers. Shrimp Scampi can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When ready to use, thaw the shrimp and sauce in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop, combining the thawed shrimp and sauce. Add a little extra broth or wine to the sauce if needed to refresh its consistency. This method ensures the shrimp retain their tender texture and the sauce remains flavorful.
Reheating Tips
Reheating Shrimp Scampi requires a delicate touch to avoid overcooking the shrimp. The stovetop is the best option: heat the dish over low to medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. If reheating in the microwave, use short intervals (30 seconds at a time) and check frequently to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. For added freshness, garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice and chopped parsley before serving.
Healthier Twist Ideas
1. Olive Oil Substitute
Swap butter for olive oil to create a lighter version of the sauce. Olive oil maintains the dish’s richness while reducing saturated fat content, making it a heart-healthier choice.
2. Whole Wheat Pasta
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta in place of traditional linguine or spaghetti. These options add fiber and nutrients, making the dish more filling and accommodating dietary restrictions.
3. Low-Sodium Broth
If you’re omitting wine, replace it with low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. This substitution ensures the dish remains flavorful while controlling salt intake.
4. Zoodles Option
For a low-carb alternative, serve Shrimp Scampi over zucchini noodles (zoodles). The zoodles absorb the garlic-butter sauce beautifully and provide a lighter, vegetable-forward base.
5. Light Sauce
Reduce the butter content by using half the amount and replacing the rest with chicken or vegetable broth. This adjustment creates a lighter sauce that’s still delicious and satisfying.
6. Add Extra Veggies
Incorporate vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus into the dish for added nutrients and texture. These ingredients pair beautifully with the sauce and shrimp.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Romantic Dinners
Impress your partner with Shrimp Scampi served over linguine or spaghetti. Pair it with garlic bread, a crisp side salad, and a glass of chilled white wine for a romantic and elegant dinner. Add a few candles for the perfect ambiance.
Family Dinners
Shrimp Scampi is a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Serve it with fettuccine or angel hair pasta, and include a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced dinner. It’s a great way to introduce seafood to younger family members.
Party Appetizers
Transform Shrimp Scampi into an appetizer by skewering the shrimp and serving the sauce in a bowl for dipping. Arrange the skewers on a platter with lemon wedges and parsley for a stylish and easy-to-serve option.
Holiday Dinners
Include Shrimp Scampi as part of your holiday feast. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or mashed potatoes for an elegant and festive main dish. Its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation will add a touch of sophistication to your table.
Casual Gatherings
For informal occasions, toss the shrimp with linguine and serve it family-style in a large bowl. Provide a basket of warm bread and extra lemon wedges so guests can customize their plates. This relaxed approach makes entertaining stress-free and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly for this recipe. Be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.
2. What type of wine should I use?
Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay are ideal. They add acidity and depth without overpowering the dish. If you don’t use alcohol, substitute with chicken broth and a splash of white vinegar.
3. Can I make Shrimp Scampi without wine?
Absolutely! Replace the wine with chicken or vegetable broth. Add a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar for the acidity typically provided by the wine.
4. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Shrimp cook quickly, usually in 2–3 minutes per side. Watch for them to turn pink and opaque, then remove them from the pan. Add them back to the sauce just before serving to heat through without overcooking.
5. Can I prepare Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the shrimp and sauce separately in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them just before reheating to maintain the shrimp’s texture.
6. What side dishes go well with Shrimp Scampi?
Steamed vegetables, garlic bread, rice pilaf, or a crisp Caesar salad pair beautifully with Shrimp Scampi. For a lighter option, serve it with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
7. How can I make this dish spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle kick of heat. Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
8. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but be cautious not to overheat them. Add the pre-cooked shrimp to the sauce during the final minute of cooking, just enough to warm them through.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. Its rich, garlicky sauce, tender shrimp, and bright citrus notes make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether served over pasta, paired with crusty bread, or enjoyed as an appetizer, Shrimp Scampi is a versatile and satisfying choice for any occasion.
If you love bold and flavorful shrimp dishes, don’t miss our Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta, a deliciously spicy and creamy option that’s perfect for hearty meals. Together, these recipes highlight the versatility of shrimp and their ability to elevate any dish.
Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, Shrimp Scampi is a recipe that deserves a place in your regular rotation. Serve it fresh, garnished with parsley and a wedge of lemon, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow.