Whenever I’m short on time but want something that tastes restaurant-worthy, I turn to this garlic butter shrimp scampi. The aroma alone is enough to make everyone come running to the table.
It’s buttery, garlicky, tangy, and full of bold flavor—everything I crave in a satisfying yet light seafood dish.
Whether it’s a quick dinner or a date night, this shrimp scampi always impresses with minimal effort.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this dish comes together in under 30 minutes yet feels so elegant and indulgent.
The shrimp stay incredibly juicy while the garlic and Parmesan add a bold, savory kick.
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work great.
Butter & Olive Oil – Butter creates richness, while olive oil prevents it from burning.
White Cooking Wine – Adds depth and brightness; dry white wine works best.
Garlic – The soul of this dish—don’t skimp!
Lemon Juice – A squeeze of acidity that balances the richness.
Italian Seasoning – Adds herby warmth to round out the flavor.
Parmesan – Optional garnish, but adds salty, cheesy flair.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t overcook the shrimp—they only need a couple of minutes per side.
Use dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for best flavor.
If you’re alcohol-free, substitute the wine with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp and sauté until they turn pink and opaque—about 1–2 minutes per side.
Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter
Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet.
Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Wine and Lemon
Pour in the white wine and fresh lemon juice.
Stir and let the liquid simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Season
Sprinkle Italian seasoning into the skillet.
Return the shrimp and toss to coat well in the sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Serve immediately.
What to Serve It With
This shrimp scampi is delicious over:
Linguine, angel hair, or spaghetti
Rice or creamy risotto
Garlic bread or crusty French baguette
A side salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal
Variations / Substitutions
Swap wine with chicken broth + lemon juice for an alcohol-free version.
Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Stir in cherry tomatoes or baby spinach for extra color and nutrients.
Use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or butter to loosen the sauce.
Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
Is it okay to skip the wine?
Absolutely. Use chicken broth with lemon juice instead—it still tastes great.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
They turn pink and curl into a C shape. Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery.
Can I add pasta directly to the skillet?
Yes! Just cook pasta separately, then toss it into the skillet with the sauce and shrimp.
What’s the best type of wine to use?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
Is Parmesan necessary?
Not at all—it’s optional but adds lovely depth and richness.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason garlic butter shrimp scampi is a timeless favorite—it’s quick, elegant, and packed with bold, satisfying flavors.
Whether you serve it on pasta, with bread, or just as-is, it always delivers.
It’s one of those back-pocket meals that feels fancy but takes no time at all.
