Shrimp scampi is a beloved classic in Italian-American cuisine, known for its rich garlic butter sauce, tender shrimp, and bright splash of lemon juice that ties everything together. This dish is quick to prepare yet feels luxurious, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant dinners. In this recipe guide, you’ll learn how to make shrimp scampi at home, creating a restaurant-quality meal in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen.
What makes shrimp scampi so special is its combination of flavours and textures. The shrimp are sautéed just until tender, coated in a savoury sauce of garlic, butter, olive oil, white wine, and fresh parsley, with a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle warmth. When served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, shrimp scampi becomes a dish that is light yet deeply satisfying and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a romantic meal, or just craving a fast and delicious seafood dish, shrimp scampi is always a winning choice. It proves that cooking impressive meals doesn’t need to be complicated – it’s all about quality ingredients and simple techniques that let flavours shine.
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Best Time To Eat
Shrimp scampi is best enjoyed as a quick yet elegant lunch or dinner, especially on busy weekdays when you want something light, flavourful, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Best Dishes To Partner
Pair your shrimp scampi with angel hair pasta, linguine, or steamed white rice, and serve it alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. For drinks, enjoy it with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with lemon to complement its bright, garlicky flavours beautifully.
There’s ongoing debate about what defines a “true” shrimp scampi. In Italy, scampi refers to a specific type of crustacean, not shrimp, and the dish traditionally looks quite different from the Americanized version. Purists argue that the garlic-butter-pasta combo, while delicious, is more of an Italian-American creation than an authentic Italian recipe.
Another point of contention is whether to include cheese. Many chefs say parmesan has no place in seafood dishes, claiming it overpowers the delicate flavor of shrimp. Yet plenty of home cooks insist a light sprinkle enhances the richness, creating a divide between tradition and personal taste.
Finally, there’s the butter-to-oil ratio. Some recipes lean heavily on butter for indulgence, while others use more olive oil for a lighter, Mediterranean feel. This choice often comes down to regional influence and personal preference—but it can spark strong opinions among food lovers who believe one method is “the right way.”
How to Make Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp Scampi Recipe Ingredients
For the Shrimp Scampi:
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional (for serving):
8 oz linguine or spaghetti, cooked al dente
Crusty bread, for dipping
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Step By Step How to Make Shrimp Scampi
Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Heat 2 tbsp of butter and 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the wine and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce by half, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Whisk until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
Add the shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately over pasta, with crusty bread, or on its own for a lighter meal.
Tips To Make Shrimp Scampi
Use large shrimp for the best texture. Frozen shrimp are fine; just thaw them beforehand. Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking shrimp to ensure even cooking.
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio adds depth to the sauce. If substituting with broth, adjust seasoning to balance flavors.
Shrimp cook quickly. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so remove them as soon as they turn pink. Serve with pasta, zucchini noodles, or fresh greens for variety.
How Many Calories Have Shrimp Scampi
With Pasta (Linguine): 450-500 calories
Without Pasta: 300-350 calories
Origin and History
Shrimp scampi is a dish that beautifully blends Italian tradition with American culinary innovation. The word “scampi” originally referred to a type of small lobster found in the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas, often cooked with garlic, olive oil, and white wine. When Italian immigrants arrived in the United States, they substituted shrimp for scampi, preserving the technique and flavors but adapting the dish to local ingredients.
This adaptation became popular in Italian-American restaurants in the mid-20th century. Its appeal was immediate—light, flavorful, and quick to make, shrimp scampi represented a perfect balance between comfort food and elegant dining. The sauce’s simplicity allowed the delicate flavor of the shrimp to shine without being overpowered.
Over time, the dish became a staple in home kitchens and restaurants alike, evolving into countless variations. Yet at its core, shrimp scampi remains a celebration of bold garlic, fresh herbs, buttery richness, and the sea’s natural sweetness.
How Long You Take to Prepare
One of the best things about shrimp scampi is how quick it is to make. From start to finish, the dish typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Most of that time is spent prepping the ingredients—cleaning and deveining the shrimp, mincing the garlic, and gathering the herbs and seasonings.
The actual cooking time is even shorter. Shrimp cook rapidly, becoming tender and juicy in just a few minutes. Overcooking is one of the most common mistakes, so timing is crucial to keep the shrimp flavorful and delicate.
Because the recipe is simple and fast, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It delivers restaurant-quality results without hours in the kitchen, making it a favorite among home cooks.
Serving Suggestions
Traditionally, shrimp scampi can be served on its own with a side of crusty bread to soak up the buttery garlic sauce. This minimalist approach allows the shrimp to shine and keeps the dish light and elegant.
For a heartier meal, it’s often served over pasta—linguine is the most popular choice. The sauce coats the noodles beautifully, turning the dish into a full dinner that pairs well with a crisp glass of white wine. Some cooks also add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness.
Beyond pasta, shrimp scampi can be served over rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or even on top of polenta for a more creative twist. Its versatility makes it an ideal dish to adapt to different tastes and occasions.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp scampi is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most irresistible. With just a few quality ingredients—fresh shrimp, garlic, butter, lemon, and herbs—you can create a dish that tastes like fine dining but comes together in minutes.
Making shrimp scampi at home means you control every element, from the freshness of the seafood to the richness of the sauce. Whether served over pasta, with crusty bread, or even on its own, it’s a dish that can elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Once you’ve mastered this easy garlic butter recipe, you’ll realize it’s not just about following steps—it’s about balance. The right amount of acidity, the perfect garlic-to-butter ratio, and the tenderness of the shrimp all come together for a plate that disappears as fast as it’s served.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.