15-Minute Garlic Shrimp Scampi

A quick and vibrant shrimp dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining.

I first served this to friends on a busy weeknight and everyone loved how fresh and zesty it was

Ingredients

• Seafood: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Aromatics: 4 cloves garlic, finely minced, 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Sauce: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine (or chicken broth), Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons), Zest of 1 lemon
• Herbs: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• To Serve: Cooked pasta, crusty bread, or steamed rice (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1:

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

Step 2:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat.

Step 3:

Add the garlic (and red pepper flakes if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4:

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1 2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque.

Step 5:

Pour in the wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the pan. Simmer for 1 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 6:

Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, lemon zest, and parsley. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.

Step 7:

Remove from heat and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

Step 8:

Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Pin It

This dish always brings my family together for a quick and delicious meal

Notes

For extra flavor add a splash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes. Substitute fresh basil or chives for parsley if desired. Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Required Tools

Large skillet, Wooden spoon or spatula, Measuring spoons and cups, Knife and cutting board

Nutritional Information

Calories: 240, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 4 g, Protein: 24 g per serving

Pin It

This shrimp scampi is a perfect weeknight meal that tastes like a special occasion dish

Questions & Answers

→ What type of shrimp is best for this dish?

Large peeled and deveined shrimp work best as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.

→ Can I substitute the white wine in the sauce?

Yes, dry white wine can be replaced with chicken broth or vegetable stock for similar depth.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Sauté shrimp for just 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender.

→ What sides pair well with this shrimp preparation?

Cooked pasta, steamed rice, or crusty bread complement the dish nicely and soak up the sauce.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

Yes, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can increase the heat according to taste.

→ Is fresh parsley necessary?

Fresh parsley adds a bright herbal note but can be swapped for basil or chives if preferred.