Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup dry white wine; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish; Linguine or spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions

Highlighted under: Rustic Inspiration

I absolutely love preparing Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter because it brings elegance to any meal while being surprisingly easy to make. The combination of succulent shrimp and rich, buttery sauce makes every bite a delight. I often whip this dish up on busy weeknights, and it never fails to impress. The vibrant flavors of garlic and lemon elevate the shrimp, creating a dish that feels gourmet yet can be made in about 30 minutes. Trust me, once you experience the taste, this will become a go-to recipe for special occasions and casual dinners alike.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:02:40.458Z

When I first attempted this Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter, I was surprised at how straightforward it was. With just a handful of ingredients, I created a dish worthy of a restaurant menu. The key is to not overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes to turn pink and tender. Pairing them with the zesty lemon and buttery sauce really enhances their natural sweetness, making this a perfect dish for seafood lovers.

I often serve this dish over a bed of al dente linguine, allowing the noodles to soak up that incredible sauce. Adding a touch of fresh parsley right before serving brightens everything up and adds a pop of color. When guests take their first bite, their expressions tell me that this recipe is a winner.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in a rich butter sauce
Bright and refreshing flavor from fresh lemon and garlic
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of Shrimp Scampi is, of course, the shrimp. Choosing large shrimp ensures that each piece is tender and succulent. When sourcing shrimp, look for those that are labeled 'wild-caught' if possible; they tend to have a more robust flavor compared to farmed varieties. Freshness is key, so shell and devein them yourself or choose pre-prepared options from your seafood counter for convenience without sacrificing quality.

Butter plays a crucial role in creating the sauce's richness. Using unsalted butter not only allows you to control the seasoning but also enhances the flavor profile without introducing any unnecessary saltiness. For an extra layer of flavor, you could consider infusing the butter with herbs like thyme or oregano before adding the garlic. This technique could elevate the dish even more.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the shrimp, it's important to avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming rather than searing. If you're cooking more than a pound, consider cooking the shrimp in batches. Pay attention to the shrimp’s color; they should turn a lovely pink and opaque as they cook, typically taking about 3 to 4 minutes on medium heat. This ensures you achieve that perfect tender and juicy texture without overcooking, which can make shrimp rubbery.

Deglazing the pan with white wine not only incorporates all the flavorful bits left from the shrimp but also adds depth to the sauce. Be sure to let the wine simmer for at least two minutes to cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavors. The residual heat will help the butter emulsify into the sauce, creating a glossy finish that clings beautifully to both the shrimp and the pasta.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for an unforgettable Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter.

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Linguine or spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before cooking to save time.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter.

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and cook for 2 minutes to let it reduce slightly. Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine. Return the shrimp to the skillet, along with the remaining butter. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated in the sauce.

Serve

Serve the shrimp scampi over the cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy your meal while it's hot!

Enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible, and don’t skimp on the garlic! You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Customization Options

This dish is incredibly versatile; you can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash can make an excellent substitute for traditional pasta. Additionally, adding vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish with extra nutrients and flavor. Simply toss them in during the last minute of cooking to keep them vibrant.

For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing or mixing in some chopped fresh chilis to the sauce. This will infuse the dish with heat without overpowering the dish’s delicate flavors, allowing you to enjoy the balance of garlic and lemon while still experimenting with bold tastes.

Storage and Reheating

For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance, then combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you're ready to serve. The cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain quality, avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may cause the shrimp to become rubbery. Instead, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or broth to steam and revive the flavors.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider transforming them into a new dish. Shrimp scampi can be turned into a flavor-packed risotto or a seafood pasta salad by mixing with cold pasta and a light vinaigrette. This creative reuse not only minimizes waste but also offers enjoyable meal variations that keep your weeknight dinners exciting.

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 to use?

Linguine or spaghetti are traditional choices, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What wine should I use for the recipe?

A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works great.