Print

The Best Shrimp Scampi

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Shrimp Scampi is a fast, flavorful pasta dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic, lemon, butter, and white wine. With minimal ingredients and a 20-minute cook time, it’s an elegant and delicious meal ideal for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
  3. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  5. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce.
  6. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until melted. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
  7. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well to coat with the sauce.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, and Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • White wine can be replaced with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for added freshness and color.
  • A splash of heavy cream can make this a creamy scampi variation.
  • Scallops or mixed seafood are great substitutes for shrimp.
  • Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/the-best-shrimp-scampi/