Shrimp Scampi: Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon & White Wine

Shrimp Scampi is a timeless seafood dish celebrated for its bold garlic flavor, silky butter sauce, and bright citrus finish. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, shrimp scampi has become a global favorite thanks to its simplicity, elegance, and speed. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that feels both comforting and refined.

Whether served over pasta, with crusty bread, or enjoyed on its own, shrimp scampi is the ultimate go-to recipe for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

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What Is Shrimp Scampi?

Traditionally, scampi refers to small lobsters (langoustines) cooked in garlic, olive oil, and butter. In the United States, shrimp replaced scampi, but the signature preparation remained the same: garlic-forward, buttery, and finished with lemon and herbs.

Today, shrimp scampi typically includes:

• Shrimp sautéed in butter and olive oil
• Garlic as the dominant flavor
• Lemon juice and zest
• White wine or broth
• Fresh parsley

The result is a light yet indulgent dish that highlights the natural sweetness of shrimp.

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Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Minimal, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Naturally low-carb and gluten-free (without pasta)
• Elegant enough for entertaining
• Incredibly versatile

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness.

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Classic Shrimp Scampi Flavor Profile

The beauty of shrimp scampi lies in restraint. Each ingredient serves a clear purpose:

• Garlic: The backbone of the dish
• Butter & Olive Oil: Richness and depth
• Lemon: Bright acidity to cut the fat
• White Wine: Subtle sweetness and balance
• Parsley: Fresh herbal finish

Together, they create a harmonious sauce that coats the shrimp without overpowering it.

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Ingredients Overview

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Aromatics & Flavor

• 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Liquids

• ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)

Finish

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Optional Additions

• Grated Parmesan (for pasta versions)
• Linguine or angel hair pasta
• Crusty bread for serving

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Choosing the Best Shrimp

For optimal results:

• Use large or extra-large shrimp (16–20 count)
• Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well
• If frozen, thaw completely and pat dry
• Avoid pre-cooked shrimp—they will become rubbery

Wild-caught shrimp offer the best flavor, but responsibly farmed shrimp are also suitable.

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Step-by-Step Shrimp Scampi Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.

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Step 2: Heat the Pan

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

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Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant—do not brown.

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Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

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Step 5: Deglaze

Pour in white wine and lemon juice. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.

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Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Whisk in remaining butter until emulsified. Return shrimp to the pan and toss to coat.

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Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with parsley and lemon zest. Serve immediately.

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How to Avoid Overcooked Shrimp

Shrimp cook extremely fast. Signs they’re done:

• Pink and opaque
• Firm but tender
• Curled into a loose “C” shape

If shrimp curl tightly into an “O,” they’re overcooked.

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Why Butter and Olive Oil Are Used Together

Using both fats provides:

• Rich flavor from butter
• Higher smoke point from olive oil
• Balanced texture and taste

This combination prevents burning while enhancing depth.

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What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi

Classic Pairings

• Linguine or angel hair pasta
• Garlic bread or baguette
• Steamed asparagus or green beans

Low-Carb Options

• Zucchini noodles
• Cauliflower rice
• Sautéed spinach

Mediterranean Sides

• Greek salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Lemon potatoes

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Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Make-Ahead

Prep ingredients in advance, but cook just before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat to avoid rubbery shrimp.

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Nutritional Benefits

Shrimp scampi is:

• High in lean protein
• Low in carbohydrates
• Rich in selenium and vitamin B12
• Compatible with Mediterranean and low-carb diets

Adjust butter quantity for lighter versions.

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Recipe Variations

Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Add ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.

Spicy Shrimp Scampi

Increase red pepper flakes or add chili oil.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake

Toss with pasta and bake briefly with Parmesan.

Dairy-Free Shrimp Scampi

Use all olive oil instead of butter.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Browning garlic (causes bitterness)
• Overcooking shrimp
• Using sweet wine
• Skipping lemon—acidity is essential

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw fully and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: What wine is best?
Dry whites like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Q3: Can I skip the wine?
Yes—use chicken broth or seafood stock.

Q4: Is shrimp scampi spicy?
Mild by default; heat is optional.

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Why This Shrimp Scampi Recipe Works

• Perfect garlic-to-butter ratio
• Quick cooking preserves shrimp texture
• Balanced acidity and richness
• Adaptable for pasta or low-carb diets

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Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi proves that extraordinary flavor doesn’t require complexity. With tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, silky butter, and bright lemon, this dish remains a classic for good reason. Whether you’re hosting guests or cooking a fast weeknight dinner, shrimp scampi delivers bold flavor, elegance, and satisfaction every time.

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