Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup white wine; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I fell in love with shrimp scampi the first time I tried it at a cozy Italian restaurant. The combination of succulent shrimp and buttery lemon sauce is unforgettable. In less than 30 minutes, you can create this gourmet dish that transports you to the Mediterranean. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe captures the essence of a rich, flavorful meal that's perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:33:34.846Z

While experimenting in the kitchen, I discovered that using fresh herbs amplifies the flavor of shrimp scampi. Just a sprinkle of parsley at the end makes a world of difference! I often make this dish when I want something quick yet impressive, and it never fails to deliver. My family always raves about the citrusy brightness that the lemon adds.

Another personal favorite tip is to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink. Overcooking them makes them rubbery, which is the last thing you want in a dish as delicate as this. A little butter and white wine create a rich sauce that's perfect for soaking up with crusty bread!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, zesty flavor from fresh lemon
Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
Perfectly tender shrimp in a rich buttery sauce

      

Perfecting the Shrimp

The key to achieving perfectly tender shrimp lies in careful cooking. When adding the shrimp to the skillet, aim for even spacing to ensure they cook uniformly. Watch for that beautiful pink hue, which indicates doneness. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery in texture. Ideally, each side should take only 3-4 minutes, and if you're unsure, using a meat thermometer can help—shrimp are done when they reach an internal temperature of 120°F.

If you prefer a bit more depth of flavor, consider marinating the shrimp briefly. A mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and a splash of lemon juice can enhance the taste before cooking. Just make sure to keep the marinade time under 30 minutes to prevent the acid from changing the shrimp's texture. This approach can elevate your dish with minimal effort.

The Role of Wine and Lemon

The white wine in this recipe is not merely a flavor enhancer; it plays a crucial role in creating the sauce's depth. A dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, works best. When added to the skillet, it deglazes the pan, lifting flavorful bits leftover from cooking the shrimp. Allow it to simmer to reduce the alcohol and concentrate the flavors, creating a richer sauce that melds beautifully with the buttery lemon infusion.

Lemon juice and zest contribute brightness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and helping to balance the overall flavor profile. Using fresh lemons is essential; bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant zest essential for an authentic taste. Grate the zest before juicing to capture the oils, which will add an aromatic element to the sauce that elevates the entire dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This shrimp scampi pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serving it over a bed of al dente pasta is classic, but if you're looking for a lighter option, consider zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Crusty artisan bread is also perfect for soaking up the luxurious lemon butter sauce, making sure none goes to waste. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for garnish—it adds a pop of color and a fresh note to every bite.

For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added during the cooking process. This not only introduces a subtle spice but also complements the dish's richness. For a heartier variation, toss in some seasonal vegetables—like asparagus or spinach—during the last few minutes of cooking. They can enhance both nutrition and flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup white wine
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Once you have everything ready, you're set to make a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper.

Add Wine and Lemon

Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, and zest into the skillet, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in the fresh parsley, and serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread. Enjoy the rich, buttery sauce!

Keep a slice of lemon handy for garnish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference for a more robust taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some elements in advance. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley a day ahead to save time during cooking. However, avoid cooking the shrimp until just before serving to prevent rubbery textures. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, but note that reheating can compromise the shrimp's tenderness. A gentle warming in a skillet is best to preserve texture.

If you’re looking to freeze this dish, it’s advisable to freeze the shrimp scampi without the pasta. Cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating in a skillet with a bit of butter and a splash of lemon juice to reclaim that fresh flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your sauce too thin, simply allow it to simmer longer to reduce and thicken while stirring often to prevent it from sticking to the pan. If it becomes too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help adjust the consistency. On the other hand, if you accidentally over-seasoned the dish, a little splash of cream or an extra squeeze of lemon can help mellow the flavors.

For those curious about shrimp quality, buying shrimp labeled 'fresh' can often indicate that they are previously frozen. Look for a slight translucence with a firm texture. Shrimp should smell mildly like the sea. If they have an overly fishy odor, they may not be fresh. Always source from reliable, reputable sellers for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

→ What type of white wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works perfectly for enhancing the flavors of the shrimp.

→ Can I make this recipe without wine?

Absolutely! You can substitute the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.