Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Classic Shrimp Scampi is a timeless seafood dish that celebrates simplicity and flavor. Plump, juicy shrimp are sautéed in a luscious garlic butter and white wine sauce, finished with a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley. The result is a light yet luxurious dish that tastes as though it came straight from an Italian trattoria. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this recipe delivers elegance in every bite.

This dish perfectly captures the essence of coastal Italian-American cuisine—fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and quick preparation. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent but can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special dinners.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Shrimp Scampi because it strikes the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. The buttery garlic sauce clings beautifully to the shrimp, while the white wine and lemon juice cut through the richness with bright acidity. Every time I make it, the aroma of garlic and butter sizzling in the pan fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. It’s comfort food that’s light and sophisticated at the same time.

Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it over linguine for a classic presentation, spoon it over rice for a heartier meal, or simply enjoy it with warm bread for dipping. It’s proof that a few quality ingredients, when treated with care, can create something extraordinary.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Shrimp Scampi is a must-try because it’s both easy and elegant. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal that’s guaranteed to impress. The flavor combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and wine is universally appealing. It’s also a fantastic introduction to seafood cooking for beginners because it’s straightforward yet refined.

If you’re looking for a dish that tastes gourmet without complicated techniques or ingredients, Shrimp Scampi deserves a place in your regular recipe rotation.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 ½ pounds (about 680g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
• ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for finishing sauce)

For Serving (Optional):

• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• Extra lemon wedges
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
   Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (do not let it brown).
   Add red pepper flakes and white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
4. Add Lemon and Butter:
   Stir in lemon juice and zest. Add the remaining butter, whisking until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened.
5. Combine and Serve:
   Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Toss well to coat in the sauce and heat through for 1–2 minutes.
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Step 1: Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: Heat butter and olive oil; sear shrimp until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. Step 3: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in the same pan.
4. Step 4: Deglaze with white wine, simmer, then add lemon juice and zest.
5. Step 5: Whisk in butter until sauce is smooth and rich.
6. Step 6: Return shrimp to the pan, toss to coat, and finish with parsley.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or bread.

How to Serve

Serve Shrimp Scampi hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. It’s traditionally served over linguine or spaghetti, but it’s equally delicious over rice, mashed potatoes, or sautéed spinach. Pair it with:

• Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• A chilled glass of white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay)

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh shrimp: It gives the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry.
• Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking makes them rubbery.
• Deglaze properly: Scrape up brown bits after adding wine — they add deep flavor to the sauce.
• Adjust the spice: Red pepper flakes add a gentle heat — use more or less to taste.
• Balance acidity: Taste the sauce before serving — if too tangy, add a small knob of butter to mellow it out.

Variations

1. Creamy Shrimp Scampi:
   Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream at the end for a rich, velvety sauce.
2. Garlic Butter Scampi without Wine:
   Substitute white wine with chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
3. Vegetable Scampi:
   Add sautéed asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
4. Lemon Basil Scampi:
   Add fresh basil leaves along with parsley for a bright, aromatic twist.
5. Spicy Cajun Scampi:
   Add 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for a bold Southern flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth.
• Freezing: Shrimp scampi freezes well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slowly to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.
• Note: Avoid freezing pasta together with shrimp, as it can become mushy. Freeze the sauce and shrimp separately.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large nonstick skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs
• Lemon zester or microplane
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Pasta pot (if serving with pasta)

Conclusion

Classic Shrimp Scampi is a masterpiece of simple ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and wine creates a sauce that perfectly complements tender shrimp, making every bite irresistible. It’s the ultimate dish for seafood lovers who want elegance without effort. Whether for a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a special gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. Once you make it, it’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites for any occasion.