Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup dry white wine; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish; Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Recipes

I love indulging in shrimp scampi on special occasions because it feels both elegant and comforting. The combination of tender shrimp simmered in garlic, butter, and vibrant lemon zest creates a dish that dances on the palate. Each bite is infused with layers of flavor, making it the perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. The best part? It only takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, allowing us to savor the moment without being stuck in the kitchen for hours.

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:17:35.381Z

When I first discovered the joy of making shrimp scampi, I was captivated by how quickly the flavors would come together. The fragrant garlic and buttery lemon blend effortlessly with the shrimp, creating a meal that feels luxurious but is surprisingly simple. I remember one evening, I served it alongside a crisp salad and some crusty bread, and my family savored every last bite.

One tip I've found invaluable is to not overcook the shrimp. They only need a few minutes in the pan to turn from translucent to perfectly tender. This ensures that each plate has shrimp that are juicy and bursting with flavor—a delightful experience every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A rich garlic and lemon flavor that brightens up the shrimp
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Impressive enough for entertaining guests without the fuss

Balancing Flavors

The beauty of shrimp scampi lies in its ability to balance rich and bright flavors. The unsalted butter provides a creamy base, while the garlic infuses an aromatic depth. Adding red pepper flakes introduces a gentle heat, complementing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. For a zesty kick, the lemon juice and zest elevate the dish, creating a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite. It’s crucial to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, allowing your palate to guide the balance.

Take care not to overpower the shrimp with the flavors. Allow them to shine by cooking them until just pink and slightly opaque, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep a close eye on them. Ideally, they should be tender and juicy, contributing to that comforting feel of the dish.

Perfect Pairings

Shrimp scampi is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While traditional pasta pairs well, consider using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb alternative. If you prefer a crusty edge, a toasted baguette is perfect for soaking up the lemon-butter sauce. Just brush the bread with a bit of olive oil and toast it in the oven until golden brown for an irresistible crunch.

For an added depth of flavor, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes. These enhancements not only boost the dish’s presentation but also add layers to the overall tasting experience. A light arugula salad with a vinaigrette can make for a fresh accompaniment, cutting through the richness and brightening the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re planning to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce separately. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat until bubbly, then add the shrimp and cook until they are heated through. This method helps keep the shrimp from overcooking while preserving the flavors.

Should you have any leftovers, shrimp scampi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the shrimp from toughening. I often recommend a splash of water or additional wine to help revive the sauce, allowing it to loosen and coat the shrimp beautifully once again.

Ingredients

For Shrimp Scampi

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup dry white wine
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish
Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients and ensure the shrimp are cleaned and deveined.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Wine and Lemon

Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for another 2 minutes.

Serve

Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with bread for dipping, garnished with chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth along with the wine. This enhances richness and complements the butter sauce beautifully.

Enhancing the Sauce

The sauce for shrimp scampi is integral to the dish, as it envelopes the shrimp and infuses them with flavor. You might experiment with adding sun-dried tomatoes or capers for extra complexity. These ingredients bring a savory element that complements the bright lemon and garlic beautifully. On the other hand, a splash of cream can transform this dish into a richer sauce, making it even more indulgent.

Also, remember to let the sauce reduce slightly after adding the wine and lemon. This process concentrates the flavors, so simmering it for those 2 extra minutes allows the alcohol to evaporate and the sauce to thicken, enhancing its luxurious texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re planning a gathering, scaling shrimp scampi is straightforward. Just maintain the same proportions; for example, doubling the recipe means using 2 pounds of shrimp and adjusting other ingredients accordingly. Keep in mind that you may need to cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to steaming rather than a nice sear.

Always taste and adjust seasoning after scaling up, as larger batches may require minor tweaks. You might find that a bit more salt or lemon juice is necessary to maintain the brisk flavor profile, ensuring that every guest enjoys the brightness and richness of the dish equally.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed before cooking for even heat distribution.

→ What type of pasta pairs well with this dish?

Linguine or spaghetti works wonderfully as they hold the sauce well.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired heat level.

→ Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?

It's best to cook shrimp right before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.