If you’ve been craving a dish that’s both elegant and utterly comforting, then this Shrimp Scampi Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce with just the right pop of acidity from fresh lemon and the subtle heat of red pepper flakes. It’s a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen, and it captivates everyone at the table with its incredible aroma and simple yet unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large stainless steel pan is shown on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, there is a mixture of melted butter creating a yellow pool with chopped garlic scattered around, adding small white and pale yellow bits. Near the garlic, there are some red chili flakes spread in a small cluster on top of the butter. A clear glass measuring cup is pouring a transparent liquid into the pan from the right side. Below the pan, on the white marbled surface, two small bowls are placed: one white bowl with more red chili flakes and one small wooden bowl filled with coarse salt crystals. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Shrimp Scampi Recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, from the richness of butter and olive oil to the brightness of fresh parsley and lemon. These basics combine effortlessly to give you a dish that’s vibrant, fresh, and wonderfully satisfying.

3 tablespoons butter: For that luscious, creamy base that brings all flavors together perfectly.
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a fruity depth and helps cook the shrimp gently without overpowering the butter.
4 garlic cloves, minced: The star aromatics providing that irresistible, savory punch.
½ cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and subtle complexity, lifting the sauce beautifully.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the richness.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: A touch of heat to give the dish a gentle kick.
1 ½ pounds large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined: The main event—choose fresh or high-quality frozen for best results.
½ lemon: Its juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness and enlivens the dish.
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley: Adds color, freshness, and a subtle herbal note.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Aromatics

Start by heating the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. As the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant and slightly golden—this step is where the kitchen begins to smell like something truly special is on its way.

Step 2: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the dry white wine, letting it simmer gently. This not only lifts the rich flavors from the skillet but also infuses the sauce with bright acidity and complexity that’s essential for a great scampi.

Step 3: Season and Cook the Shrimp

Add the kosher salt and red pepper flakes, then introduce the shrimp to the pan. Cook each side until the shrimp turns pink and firm, usually about two minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook—you want succulent shrimp that “pop” with every bite.

Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Parsley

Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle the chopped parsley. This finishing touch brings vibrant color and a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness beautifully.

How to Serve Shrimp Scampi Recipe

A silver pan sits on a white marbled surface filled with raw shrimp arranged in a single layer. Under the shrimp is a melted yellowish butter sauce with specks of red seasoning, creating a glossy and slightly textured base. The shrimp are gray with white flesh and dark tails, some slightly curled and others straight, showing their translucent and fresh texture. The pan handle extends to the right and the overall scene is well lit, highlighting the contrast between the shiny metal and the shrimp. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a classic garnish, but you can also add thin lemon wedges or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an added touch of elegance and flavor brightness.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp Scampi Recipe pairs wonderfully with angel hair pasta, creamy risotto, or even a crusty baguette to soak up all that glorious buttery sauce. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad complement it perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp over a bed of zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist or stuff the scampi inside fresh garlic bread bowls for a fun, shareable meal that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors deepen when chilled, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

While shrimp can get a bit rubbery when frozen and reheated, you can freeze the sauce separately in a sealed container if you want to prepare ahead. Just defrost slowly in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat to preserve the shrimp’s texture and prevent the butter from separating. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain that perfect scampi consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Scampi Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.

How spicy is the Shrimp Scampi Recipe?

It has a gentle kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can always adjust the amount to suit your preference, from mild to moderately spicy.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you serve it with gluten-free pasta or sides, making it accessible for many dietary needs.

What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?

Use a small paring knife or shrimp deveiner to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp, remove the vein with the tip of the knife, and peel away the shell starting from the legs.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Scampi Recipe is a true favorite that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance to your dinner table. It’s incredibly simple to make but feels like a special occasion every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to for weeknight dinners and entertaining alike.

Shrimp Scampi Recipe