There's something magical about the aroma of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi sizzling in a pan. The combination of tender shrimp, rich butter, and aromatic garlic creates a dish that's both simple and indulgent. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
I first fell in love with shrimp scampi while dining at a charming seaside restaurant. The bright lemony sauce, the garlicky butter coating each shrimp, and the twirl of pasta soaking up every bit of flavor—it was love at first bite. Now, I recreate that experience in my own kitchen, and today, I'm excited to share this recipe with you!
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Get ready to fall for a dish that's as easy as it is delicious! Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi checks all the right boxes for a perfect meal.
First, it’s incredibly quick and easy. With just a handful of ingredients and 20 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish on your table in no time.
This dish is packed with flavor. The garlic butter sauce is infused with lemon juice and white wine, creating a balance of richness and brightness that perfectly complements the shrimp.
It’s also budget-friendly. While it tastes luxurious, you only need a few simple ingredients that are easy to find and won’t break the bank.
Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or even alongside a fresh salad. However you choose to enjoy it, this dish delivers every time.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in bringing out the best flavors.
Let’s start with the shrimp. I recommend using large or extra-large shrimp, preferably peeled and deveined. The size ensures a juicy bite, while cleaning them ahead of time makes cooking effortless. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry.
The butter is where all the richness comes from. I prefer unsalted butter, allowing you to control the seasoning of the dish. It also helps achieve that silky, glossy sauce that clings to the shrimp beautifully.
A generous amount of garlic is the heart of this recipe. Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor—avoid using pre-minced garlic from a jar, as it tends to be less aromatic.
For that signature brightness, lemon juice is a must. Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the dish with a pop of acidity, cutting through the richness of the butter.
Lastly, a splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute with chicken broth for a similar effect.
How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Creating this irresistible Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a perfect dish every time.
Start by cooking your pasta if you're serving this dish with noodles. A pot of salted boiling water will do the trick—just cook until al dente and reserve some pasta water for later.
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter along with a drizzle of olive oil. Once the butter melts and starts to sizzle, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic. Let the garlic sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Then, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
Next, return the shrimp to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. If serving with pasta, add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing them to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.
Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, when the shrimp are perfectly tender and the sauce is at its most flavorful.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), storing them properly ensures you can enjoy them later.
Refrigeration: Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing the container.
Freezing: While shrimp can be frozen, the buttery sauce may separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, store in an airtight container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to customize the dish!
Want to make it low-carb? Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Looking for a creamy version? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to the sauce for a luscious, velvety finish.
No white wine? No problem! Substitute it with chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor, or add a little extra lemon juice for brightness.
Craving extra spice? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when adding the garlic for a subtle heat that balances beautifully with the butter and lemon.
Want to make it dairy-free? Swap out the butter for olive oil or a plant-based alternative like vegan butter.
This recipe is meant to be played with—so feel free to experiment and make it your own!
PrintGarlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe
This garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe is a quick and flavorful dish made with juicy shrimp, garlic, butter, white wine, and fresh lemon juice. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions if using. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink.
- Pour in white wine (or broth) and lemon juice, simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in remaining butter and parsley, tossing to coat the shrimp in sauce.
- Serve over pasta or with crusty bread, topped with Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of heavy cream for a creamy version.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1plate
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 720mg
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