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 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup dry white wine; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I love making Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter, as it transforms simple ingredients into a deliciously rich dish in no time. The succulent shrimp, coated in garlic and a tangy lemon butter sauce, is not only satisfying but impresses anyone I serve it to. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner or a romantic evening. With just a few pantry staples, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, always winning praises and leaving my guests asking for seconds!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:17:36.682Z

When I first made Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The key to making it a standout dish is using fresh shrimp and not overcooking them. I found that just a couple of minutes in a hot pan allows the shrimp to remain tender and juicy while absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Another tip I learned is to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. It elevates the dish by adding a slight kick that perfectly complements the lemon. It's this simple addition that makes my version of scampi unforgettable!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp drenched in a zesty lemon butter sauce
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
The perfect combination of garlic and a hint of spice

The Role of Shrimp in This Dish

Choosing the right shrimp is essential for perfecting this dish. I recommend using large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that has a slight sheen and a fresh scent; avoid those that appear dull or have a strong odor. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can work well too. Just ensure they're thawed properly by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water until they're no longer icy.

The cooking time for shrimp is crucial--overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. The general rule I follow is to cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye out for their telltale 'C' shape, which indicates they are cooked perfectly. If they begin to curl into an 'O', they may be overdone.

Perfecting the Lemon Butter Sauce

The lemon butter sauce is what elevates this dish to gourmet status. Using fresh lemon juice is a must as it adds a vibrant flavor that bottled lemon juice can't replicate. I usually roll the lemon on the countertop before cutting it to extract maximum juice. The zest can also be added for an extra citrus punch if desired, providing both flavor and a beautiful presentation with its bright yellow color.

When adding the white wine, choose a dry variety that you would also enjoy drinking. A good Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully. The wine not only adds depth to the flavor but also helps deglaze the pan, lifting any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Allow it to simmer and reduce properly, as this concentrates the flavors, creating a luscious sauce that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

As for serving, this dish shines when paired with pasta or crusty bread. When serving over pasta, I prefer a long noodle like spaghetti or linguine, which can easily twirl together with the sauce. For a heartier meal, consider tossing in some vegetables, like sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes, to add color and nutrition to the dish.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over low heat to warm them gently without overcooking the shrimp again. Additionally, this dish can be easily scaled up for larger gatherings—just maintain the same ratios of ingredients regardless of the quantity, ensuring consistent flavor throughout.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Make sure to have everything ready before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful Shrimp Scampi:

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Add Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

Serve

Toss the shrimp with fresh parsley and serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Scampi!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth along with the wine and lemon juice. It really enhances the sauce!

Tips for Adjusting Spice Levels

The red pepper flakes in this recipe add a pleasant heat that balances the richness of the butter and the acidity of the lemon. Adjusting the amount of these flakes can tailor the spice level to your preference. If you're sensitive to heat, start with a pinch and gradually increase, tasting as you go. Conversely, if you love spice, consider incorporating a bit of cayenne pepper or even fresh chopped chili along with the flakes for an extra kick.

For a milder version, you can omit the red pepper flakes entirely. Instead, use fresh herbs like thyme or basil to enhance the flavor profile without the heat. This can make the dish appealing to individuals who prefer less spicy food, such as children or guests who may be sensitive to heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the sauce in advance. You can sauté the garlic and butter, then add the wine and lemon juice, allowing it to simmer and cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the shrimp and cook until they are just done. This method saves time when entertaining guests and keeps your kitchen stress-free.

Remember, though, that shrimp don't freeze well due to their delicate nature. If you want to prep in advance, it's best to keep the shrimp and sauce separate until you're ready to cook. This way, the shrimp will maintain their texture and flavor when cooked fresh, resulting in the best possible dining experience.

Variations to Explore

This recipe serves as a fantastic base for countless variations. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding capers or olives to the sauce, which will introduce a briny flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully. You can also add vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers, which add color and crunch while still cooking quickly in the skillet.

Another great variation involves swapping the shrimp for another type of seafood, such as scallops or even firm white fish. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times as these proteins can vary significantly. For fish, cook until it flakes easily with a fork, ensuring that it remains moist and flaky while incorporating the same delicious lemon butter sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What should I serve with Shrimp Scampi?

It's traditionally served with pasta or toasted bread, which is perfect for soaking up the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the shrimp right before serving.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely! You can serve the shrimp over gluten-free pasta or enjoy it without any pasta.