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 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Cooked pasta, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely adore this Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter recipe. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and a rich lemony sauce creates a dish that always delights. Each time I prepare it, I’m transported to coastal dining, with the scent of the sea wafting through my kitchen. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy all palates.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:21:35.114Z

When I first attempted making Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter, I was skeptical about how flavorful it could be with such simple ingredients. But as I tossed the garlic in the sizzling butter and added the shrimp, a heavenly aroma filled the air. It was a revelation! The key to a great scampi is high-quality shrimp and ensuring they're just perfectly cooked—juicy and tender, not rubbery.

One dinner, after garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and a twist of lemon, I served it over pasta. My family couldn't stop raving about how the bright citrus flavor complemented the sweet shrimp beautifully. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor from fresh garlic and zesty lemon
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings
Elegant enough for special occasions or dinner parties

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality, fresh shrimp is crucial for the ultimate flavor in this Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter. Look for shrimp that have a firm texture and a mild ocean smell. If possible, use wild-caught shrimp for a superior taste. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they won’t absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce and may end up rubbery when reheated.

Lemon juice and zest are the stars of the sauce, providing brightness and acidity that balance the richness of butter. Fresh lemons outshine bottled juice in flavor and aroma. Always zest the lemon before juicing to capture those fragrant oils from the peel, which will enhance the overall dish. If you're in a pinch, lime zest can work as an alternative, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Perfecting Your Sauce

Cooking the garlic correctly is essential to avoid bitterness in your sauce. Sauté it over medium heat until it's golden and fragrant—about 30 seconds—taking care not to let it brown. This initial step lays the foundation for a rich flavor base, and timely cooking is key. If the pan gets too hot, lower the heat to prevent burning, which can ruin the dish in an instant.

When incorporating the white wine or chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan is vital. This not only helps to lift any flavorful bits left from the shrimp but also enriches the sauce with deeper flavor. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes; this process intensifies the taste by cooking off the alcohol in the wine and allowing the liquids to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Cooked pasta, for serving (optional)

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Shrimp Scampi:

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, add the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Scrape any bits off the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes before adding the remaining butter and the lemon zest.

Combine and Serve

Return the shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and cook for an additional minute. Serve over pasta if desired, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Scampi and impress your guests!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter, consider serving it over a bed of linguine or fettuccine. The long, flat noodles hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. If you're gluten-free, spiralized zucchini or gluten-free pasta are fantastic alternatives that complement the dish without compromising on taste.

For an added layer of flavor, pair this dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or capers for a touch of brininess. A side of crusty garlic bread will help soak up the delicious sauce, making for a satisfying meal that prompts everyone to keep reaching for more.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. I recommend keeping the pasta separate from the shrimp and sauce to prevent them from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

While you can freeze the shrimp scampi, it may affect the texture once thawed due to the water content in shrimp. If you do choose to freeze, store the dish without the pasta and consume it within three months for the best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and always taste and adjust the seasoning as freezing can mute flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach or asparagus can be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.