Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Quick Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 8 ounces spaghetti; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or use dried if preferred)

As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling garlic and butter enveloped me like a warm hug—a perfect prelude to the culinary magic that is Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi. In just 25 minutes, I transformed simple ingredients into a stunning dish that feels like a restaurant experience without leaving my home. Juicy shrimp delicately cooked in a luscious sauce not only makes for a quick and easy dinner, but it also promises to impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe brings gourmet dining into your everyday life. So, are you ready to whip up some magic and make your taste buds dance?

Why Is Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Amazing?

Quick cooking: Whip up this delightful meal in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

Succulent shrimp: Tender, juicy shrimp bask in a rich, garlic butter sauce, creating a flavor explosion that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Versatile base: Pair with spaghetti or your favorite pasta, and feel free to explore alternatives like zucchini noodles for a lighter option!

Impressive yet simple: With minimal ingredients, this dish looks and tastes gourmet, allowing you to showcase your culinary skills without stress.

Comfort food vibes: The comforting notes of butter and garlic make this dish a favorite, appealing to everyone from seasoned chefs to busy home cooks.

Pairing suggestions: Complement it with crusty bread for dipping or a refreshing salad on the side for a complete meal that satisfies!

For more quick and tasty seafood recipes, like Garlic Shrimp Over or Garlic Butter Cod, check out our collection!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for convenience and quicker cooking.

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Divided for cooking and finishing to achieve a smoother flavor layer.
• Garlic – Minced for optimal flavor infusion; pre-minced garlic can speed up the process.
• Dry White Wine – Recommended Chardonnay enhances flavor depth while balancing the richness of the butter.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with its acidity, enhancing the overall freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a spicy kick; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.

For the Pasta
• Spaghetti – Serves as the base; any preferred pasta can work well if desired.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Adds color and freshness; use dried parsley if you prefer convenience.

Now that you have all your ingredients lined up, let’s dive into the magic of creating this delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Once tender, reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside. This step lays the foundation for your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to foam gently, creating a rich aroma that fills your kitchen. Keep an eye on it, as you want it to sizzle without browning, preparing a luscious base for the scampi. This will take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. This is where the magic of flavor begins for your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, making the kitchen smell irresistible.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Introduce the large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to the skillet, spreading them out evenly. Cook for around 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque. This color change indicates they are fully cooked and tender, ready to absorb all the flavors from the garlic butter.

Step 5: Add Wine and Seasonings
Pour in ¼ cup of dry white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice along with a pinch of red pepper flakes, if you like some heat. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the alcohol evaporate and the flavors meld beautifully. The sauce should thicken slightly during this stage, combining harmoniously with the shrimp.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. This will create a silky, smooth sauce. If it appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The sauce should cling lovingly to the shrimp while remaining light and flavorful.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta
Add the drained spaghetti into the skillet, tossing it gently to coat with the rich garlic butter sauce. Make sure the pasta is heated through, about 1-2 minutes, ensuring every strand is deliciously enveloped in the sauce. This step completes the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, making it a perfect, comforting dish.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once combined, remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while it’s hot, allowing the wonderful aromas to entice everyone gathered at the table. This dish is best enjoyed warm and fresh, just the way comfort food should be!

Make Ahead Options

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on meal prep! To prep ahead, you can clean and devein the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mince the garlic and mix the butter and lemon juice together up to 3 days before you plan to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply sauté the garlic in the butter, add the shrimp, and follow through the rest of the recipe. This way, you’ll still have a delicious, gourmet dish that’s just as flavorful, allowing you to create an impressive dinner with ease!

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Elevate your dining experience by crafting a delightful full meal with various accompaniment options that enhance this savory dish.

Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that rich garlic butter sauce, giving an indulgent touch to every bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing side with a light vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness, adding brightness and texture.
Lemon Butter Asparagus: The bright acidity complements the shrimp beautifully, while the slight crunch adds a satisfying contrast.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, these noodles offer a fresh and light base while still absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay works wonders with shrimp, enhancing the meal with its fruitiness and crisp finish.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a pop of color and complementary sweetness that ties the dish together.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice flavored with fresh herbs acts as a perfect backdrop to indulge in the garlic butter sauce.
Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw provides a delightful contrast to the buttery shrimp, making each forkful a new experience.
Chocolate Mousse: Cap off your meal with a silky dessert that feels luxurious while remaining light and airy, perfect after a savory dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Stay refreshed with a zesty beverage that complements the dish and cleanses the palate in between bites.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the shrimp’s texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp scampi in an airtight container for 1–2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to prevent drying out and to help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Freshness Note: While the flavors remain pleasant, the texture of shrimp may change after freezing, so enjoy fresh scampi when possible!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Variations

Feel free to explore and tweak this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops for a different seafood flavor. Scallops cook quickly and will create a delightful dish.
Chicken Option: Use diced chicken breast instead of shrimp, cooking it until golden. This swap makes for a hearty meal that everyone will love.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color. The veggies will add a fresh, vibrant touch to your dish.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute traditional spaghetti with gluten-free pasta options. Enjoy the same comforting flavors without any gluten.
Wine-less Version: Swap the dry white wine for chicken broth if preferred. This will still lend a lovely flavor while keeping it family-friendly.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. If you’re a spice lover, don’t hold back—they’ll add a zesty explosion of flavor to each bite!
Creamy Twist: For a creamy scampi, stir in some heavy cream at the end while mixing with pasta. This will elevate the richness and make it even more comforting.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme or basil to the sauce for a delightful flavor twist. Fresh herbs enhance the dish’s aroma and freshness beautifully.

No matter how you choose to experiment, you won’t be disappointed! And if you’re curious about more delicious options, check out our Bang Bang Shrimp or Cajun Garlic Chicken recipes that bring new excitement to your kitchen.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Perfect Shrimp Searing: Ensure shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry to achieve a good sear without steaming.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the shrimp in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Watch the Timing: Shrimp overcook easily; keep an eye on them and pull off heat if garlic browns too quickly to prevent bitterness.
Add Zest for Brightness: Consider adding a pinch of lemon zest for an extra burst of freshness in your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi.
Ideal Pasta Texture: Reserve pasta water before draining; adding it helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency when combining with the pasta.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. This not only saves you time but also ensures quick cooking, making your dish come together seamlessly. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you can only find frozen, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
You’ll want to refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat to preserve the shrimp’s texture. It’s a simple way to make your delicious meal last just a bit longer!

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the cooked scampi cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for 1-2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat it on the stove—don’t forget to add a splash of broth or reserved pasta water to bring back that creamy consistency!

What if my shrimp turn rubbery when cooking?
Very understandable! Shrimp can overcook quickly, turning rubbery. To avoid this, make sure you’re cooking them just until they’re pink and opaque, usually around 4-5 minutes. Keeping an eye on the garlic as well is crucial; pull the skillet off the heat if it darkens too quickly.

Any dietary considerations for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
Definitely! This dish is seafood-based, so if there are any allergies to shellfish or seafood, it’s best to choose an alternative protein, like chicken or scallops. If you’re accommodating someone with dietary restrictions, I often suggest using chicken broth instead of white wine for a non-alcoholic version. Enjoy the flavors, and keep everyone in mind!

What else can I add to the dish?
Very much so! You can incorporate vegetables like cherry tomatoes or fresh spinach for added nutrition and color. If you’re feeling adventurous, zucchini noodles are a fantastic alternative for a lighter option while still keeping it delicious!