Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup dry white wine; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter for a quick and indulgent dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp, fragrant garlic, and zesty lemon creates a dish that captivates my taste buds every time. I especially enjoy how the butter adds a rich, silky texture that elevates the overall flavor. Often, I prepare this dish for celebrations or surprise guests, and it's always a hit. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, I can whip up something extraordinary that feels gourmet!

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:29:39.718Z

When I first discovered Shrimp Scampi, I was amazed at how quickly this flavorful dish comes together. Using fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and a splash of white wine brings an impressive depth of flavor that I always strive for in my cooking. This recipe became a staple for me, especially when I wanted to impress family and friends with minimal effort.

One tip I learned while perfecting this dish is to sauté the shrimp just until they're opaque. Overcooking them can make them chewy and less appealing. I also love to serve it over pasta to soak up all that delicious lemon butter sauce!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor that enhances every bite
Quick and simple preparation, perfect for busy nights
Elegant enough for dinner parties or casual gatherings

      

The Role of the Ingredients

The star of Shrimp Scampi is the shrimp itself, so investing in high-quality, fresh shrimp will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm, with a mild ocean scent. Large shrimp are best for this dish as they remain juicy while cooking, absorbing the rich flavors of garlic and lemon without becoming rubbery. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can serve as a convenient substitute—just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.

Unsalted butter is essential for this dish, as it allows you to control the salt level, enhancing the natural flavors of the shrimp and garlic. The butter will create a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp and any starch you serve it with. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider swapping half the butter with olive oil; this will introduce a different flavor profile while still providing a delightful richness.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Timing is crucial in making Shrimp Scampi. After adding the shrimp to the skillet, watch them closely; they should turn pink and opaque in about 2-3 minutes per side. If you overcook them, they can become tough and lose their buttery juiciness. One tip I use is to check for a slight curl in the shrimp, which indicates they are nearly done. This visual cue helps me achieve that perfect texture consistently.

When adding the wine, ensure that it is a good quality dry white wine, as it significantly affects the flavor of the sauce. Allowing it to simmer helps to deglaze the pan, lifting any stuck bits of garlic or shrimp, adding depth to your sauce. If you want to avoid alcohol, you can substitute white wine with a mixture of chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar—this will still give you a deliciously tangy sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup dry white wine
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go before cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Shrimp Scampi:

Sauté the Garlic

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

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Add Wine and Lemon

Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, and zest. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

Finish with Parsley

Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat.

Serve

Serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best taste!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can prep the garlic and parsley in advance; just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. The shrimp, however, are best cooked fresh for optimal flavor and texture. If you do have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp further.

To reheat, you might consider using a skillet with a splash of water or broth, covering the pan to retain moisture, and heating gently until warmed through. The sauce will help keep the shrimp moist, ensuring they don't become dry—a common pitfall when reheating seafood.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a more substantial meal, serve your Shrimp Scampi over a bed of al dente pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, which will soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the buttery mixture. A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a few red pepper flakes can add an appealing pop of color and heat.

For a variation, consider adding vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes in the final minutes of cooking. This will not only enhance the dish's nutritional profile but also add vibrant colors and textures. You can also experiment with different herbs such as basil or thyme to change the flavor profile while maintaining that delicious lemony essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as an alternative.

→ How do I store leftover shrimp scampi?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes work great and add extra nutrients.