When it comes to seafood dishes that feel fancy but are secretly easy to make, nothing beats this shrimp scampi recipe. It’s buttery, garlicky, and full of flavor, yet comes together in under 30 minutes. That’s why shrimp scampi is a go-to recipe for busy home cooks across the USA—especially in the warmer months when fresh, quick meals are a must.
This version of shrimp scampi stays true to the classic, with juicy shrimp, fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs all tossed in a silky butter sauce and served over pasta. It’s incredibly versatile—keep it simple for a weeknight dinner or dress it up with seasonal ingredients for a summer celebration.
Whether you serve it with linguine, rice, or crusty bread, this dish brings restaurant flavor straight to your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Recipe ❤️
- 🍤 Fast & flavorful – Ready in under 30 minutes
- 🧄 Packed with garlic & lemon – Bright, bold flavors
- 🧈 Rich but not heavy – The butter sauce is silky but fresh
- 🍝 Perfect with pasta or bread – Flexible and satisfying
- 🌿 Customizable – Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or chili flakes for a twist
Quick Facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | PT10M |
| Cooking Time | PT15M |
| Total Time | PT25M |
| Type | Main Course / Seafood Pasta |
| Cuisine | American / Italian-Inspired |
| Recipe Yield | 4 servings |
| Calories | ~420 per serving (approximate) |
What You’ll Need 🛒
This shrimp scampi recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that deliver big flavor. Make sure to use quality shrimp and fresh garlic for the best result.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)
- Extra lemon wedges and parsley for garnish 🍋🌿
Let’s Make It! 👩🍳
This shrimp scampi dish comes together quickly—so have everything prepped before you begin cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the pasta (if using)
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. - Sauté the garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. - Add the shrimp
Place shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. - Deglaze with lemon
Add lemon juice and zest to the skillet. Toss to coat the shrimp and release any browned bits from the pan. - Finish with butter and parsley
Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and fresh parsley. Remove from heat. - Serve
Serve shrimp and sauce over cooked pasta, with extra lemon wedges and parsley on top. Or skip the pasta and enjoy with warm crusty bread or a side of summer salad.
Conclusion: A Fast and Flavorful Shrimp Dinner for Summer Nights 🌙
This shrimp scampi recipe is proof that quick meals can still be incredibly satisfying. With simple ingredients and just one pan, you get buttery shrimp with a garlicky citrus punch that tastes like a dish from a seaside restaurant.
Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a summer dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, shrimp scampi is always a good idea. Pair it with grilled vegetables, a glass of sparkling lemonade, or a light pasta for a refreshing summer vibe.
👉 Tried it? Share your scampi creation online and tag us—your version might just inspire someone else’s dinner tonight!
FAQs About Shrimp Scampi Recipe ❓
How to make shrimp scampi without wine?
This version skips the wine and uses lemon juice instead for brightness. It’s just as flavorful and great for all ages.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What’s the best pasta for shrimp scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti are classic choices, but fettuccine or angel hair work too. You can also serve it with rice or mashed potatoes.
Can I substitute butter with more olive oil?
You can, but the richness of butter is key to traditional scampi flavor. A mix of both gives the best balance.
Is shrimp scampi spicy?
Not by default, but adding red pepper flakes gives it a subtle heat. Adjust to your taste!
Wrapping It Up 🍤🍋
There you have it—your go-to shrimp scampi recipe for summer and beyond. With buttery shrimp, fresh lemon, and a pop of garlic, it’s a quick seafood dinner that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Make it once, and you’ll see why this dish is loved across the USA. Whether you’re craving a comfort meal or hosting a last-minute summer gathering, this shrimp scampi hits all the right notes.
Looking for more seafood dishes? Try our garlic butter salmon, lemon herb tilapia, or creamy tuna pasta. Until then—happy cooking and enjoy every garlicky bite! 🍽️🧄