Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Cooked pasta or crusty bread (for serving)

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter at home. The combination of juicy shrimp, tangy lemon, and creamy butter creates an amazing dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. It has become a favorite in our household, especially on busy weeknights when I need something quick yet impressive. Not only does this dish taste gourmet, but it also only takes about 20 minutes to prepare. It's perfect for sharing with friends or family, and I always feel proud serving it at the dinner table.

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:37:37.381Z

When I first made Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter, I was surprised at how simple yet delicious it could be. After experimenting with different methods, I found that gently sautéing the shrimp with garlic and red pepper flakes in a generous amount of butter creates a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of lemon juice brightens the whole dish, turning it into a delightful experience for the taste buds.

I recommend using high-quality shrimp and fresh ingredients to really elevate your scampi. Pairing it with a glass of white wine or some crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce makes it an unforgettable meal. You won't believe how easy it is to impress your guests!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Succulent shrimp bathed in a rich lemon butter sauce
Quick and easy prep makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Elegant presentation that's great for entertaining or special occasions

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

The star of this Shrimp Scampi is definitely the large shrimp. When choosing shrimp, opt for wild-caught if possible, as they tend to have a firmer texture and fuller flavor compared to farm-raised varieties. Fresh shrimp should have a slightly briny smell, and their shells should be firm and shiny. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly in the fridge overnight or under cold running water for quick defrosting. This prevents a rubbery texture during cooking.

Butter plays a crucial role in creating the sauce's rich, velvety mouthfeel. Unsalted butter is recommended to have control over the salt level in the dish. The combination of butter with garlic creates a fragrant base that enhances the overall flavor profile. Be careful not to brown the butter too much; adding the garlic should be done as soon as the butter is melted to maintain a light, golden color rather than dark brown.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

Sautéing shrimp requires a quick and attentive cooking process. Heat the pan over medium heat to avoid overcooking. The shrimp should be added in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and don't steam. Watch for their color change from translucent to opaque, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side. If they cook too long, you risk a rubbery texture, so have your lemon juice ready to add immediately after they are cooked to stop the cooking process.

When adding the lemon juice and zest, this not only brightens the dish but also balances the richness of the butter. Letting the dish simmer for an additional two minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you find the sauce too thick, a tablespoon of pasta cooking water can help thin it out while keeping the sauce cohesive.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your shrimp scampi:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 lemon, juiced and zested
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked pasta or crusty bread (for serving)

Now that you have everything, let's cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Shrimp Scampi:

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Add Lemon and Finishing Touches

Once the shrimp are cooked, pour in the lemon juice and zest, tossing everything together. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the shrimp scampi hot over cooked pasta or with crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Don't overcook the shrimp
they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp Scampi can be enjoyed creatively! While serving it over pasta is traditional, try it atop a bed of quinoa or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. If you’re aiming to impress, consider serving it in a hollowed-out bread bowl, allowing the crusty bread to soak up all that delicious lemon butter sauce.

Pair the dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the bright lemon notes. Additionally, serving crusty bread on the side allows guests to mop up the leftover sauce, ensuring no delicious drop goes to waste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While Shrimp Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components in advance. Chop garlic and parsley ahead of time, and have your shrimp cleaned and ready in the fridge. Just make sure to cook them within a day for optimal freshness. If you plan to reheat, do so gently. Microwaving on low power or gently sautéing on the stove can prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently and consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice to revive the flavors. Alternatively, you can freeze the scampi, although it’s best to freeze only the shrimp and sauce, avoiding pasta until re-serving due to texture changes in the noodles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of pasta is best for serving?

Any type of pasta works well, but linguine or fettuccine complements the sauce nicely.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the garlic and butter sauce ahead of time and quickly add the shrimp later.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking.