Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's nothing quite like the rich aroma of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi filling your kitchen. With plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce and tossed with tender pasta, this dish is pure comfort in every bite.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a whim when I needed a quick yet elegant meal for a last-minute dinner guest. What started as a simple throw-together meal quickly became one of my most requested recipes. It’s the perfect combination of restaurant-quality flavors and weeknight simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite seafood dish. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and here’s why:

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

It’s also light yet indulgent. The combination of butter, garlic, and white wine creates a luxurious sauce that coats the shrimp and pasta beautifully without feeling too heavy.

Budget-conscious? This dish feels fancy but is affordable when you use frozen shrimp and pantry staples like pasta, garlic, and butter.

Finally, it’s versatile. Whether you serve it over pasta, zucchini noodles, or even with crusty bread, there are endless ways to enjoy this dish to suit your dietary needs.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi lies in its simple yet high-impact ingredients. Let’s break them down:

Shrimp – I recommend using large or extra-large shrimp (peeled and deveined) for the best texture. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Fresh shrimp will give the best flavor, but frozen works just as well in a pinch.

Garlic – This is the heart of the dish. Freshly minced garlic delivers the most intense and aromatic flavor. I use at least five cloves for a deep garlicky taste, but feel free to adjust to your preference.

Butter & Olive Oil – A combination of unsalted butter and extra virgin olive oil gives the sauce a perfect balance. Butter adds richness, while olive oil prevents the dish from feeling too heavy.

White Wine – A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio adds depth and acidity to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, chicken broth is a great substitute.

Lemon Juice & Parsley – Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness of the butter. A sprinkle of chopped parsley at the end adds color and freshness.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Making this dish is as simple as it is delicious. Here’s how to bring it all together:

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. I love using linguine or spaghetti, as they hold onto the sauce beautifully. Cook until al dente, then drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Meanwhile, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.

Next, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Deglaze the pan by adding white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.

Return the shrimp to the pan and toss everything together. Add the cooked pasta along with a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley.

In just 20 minutes, your dish is ready to serve! The result is a restaurant-quality meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Storage Options

While Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later.

To refrigerate, place leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so add a splash of broth or butter when reheating.

To freeze, store just the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

For reheating, warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it!

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Want it creamier? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

If you’re avoiding pasta, try serving this dish over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Don’t have white wine? Swap it with chicken broth or even a little extra lemon juice for acidity.

Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a slightly different flavor profile.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is guaranteed to impress!

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