If you’ve ever found yourself craving a dish that’s bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness yet comes together in a flash, then this Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe is exactly what you need in your culinary rotation. It’s a spectacularly simple dish featuring beautifully tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, brightened up with fresh lemon juice and a kiss of white wine. Perfect for weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe balances comfort and elegance in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate filled with raw shrimp, arranged in a loose pile showing pink and translucent white colors with some light orange shades on the tails, placed on a white marbled surface; above the plate, a woman's hand is holding a small piece of butter, light yellow in color and rectangular in shape. To the upper right, a wooden cutting board with fresh green parsley leaves, a whole garlic bulb with white skin, and a halved yellow lemon. To the left, three small black dishes holding white salt, red pepper flakes, and dark soy sauce, plus a clear glass of light yellow oil, all placed on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, coming together to create a dish that’s both rich and vibrant without any fuss. From the jumbo shrimp providing a meaty texture, to the fresh garlic and butter that infuse flavor at every turn, these ingredients are straightforward but essential for that signature scampi taste.

Extra jumbo or colossal shrimp: Using U15 or larger ensures plump, juicy shrimp that won’t shrink away when cooked.
Diamond Crystal Kosher salt: This salt is perfect for seasoning because of its purity and texture.
Baking soda: A small touch helps tenderize the shrimp for that perfect bite.
Unsalted butter: The creamy, rich base that carries all the garlic flavor beautifully.
Olive oil: Alongside butter, it helps create a silky sauce and prevents burning.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh to deliver that unmistakable aromatic punch.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle heat layer to excite your taste buds.
Dry white wine: Introduces a fruity acidity that lifts the buttery sauce.
Flat-leaf Italian parsley: Brings freshness and a hint of earthiness to balance richness.
Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and a zesty tang that cuts through the butter.
Salt and pepper: To taste, finishing with seasoning that enhances every flavor.

How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by making sure your shrimp are properly cleaned and deveined, which helps keep their texture perfect while cooking. Toss them gently with the kosher salt and baking soda, which works wonders to tenderize the shrimp and brings out their natural sweetness. Let it rest briefly to maximize tenderness that will melt in your mouth.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic and, if you like a little kick, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir constantly to avoid burning and let the garlic become fragrant and silky, which sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful opaque pink with a slight golden sear. Cooking shrimp quickly keeps them juicy and tender, the highlight of this Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe.

Step 4: Add Wine, Lemon Juice, and Parsley

Pour in the white wine and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly and marry with the butter and garlic. Once the alcohol has mellowed, stir in the fresh lemon juice and minced parsley, which add a bright freshness that makes the dish pop with flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

A black pan with nine pink and white cooked shrimp arranged in a circle and scattered in the middle, sitting in a light yellow creamy sauce with small green herbs spread through it. The pan is on a golden stove, and the background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side not only make the dish look inviting but also provide an extra herbaceous burst and a zesty squeeze to brighten every bite. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation in seconds.

Side Dishes

This shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—think al dente linguine to soak up that luscious sauce, crusty garlic bread for dipping, or even a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. Each side enhances the experience and helps you turn this quick recipe into a full meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more casual twist, serve the shrimp over creamy polenta or tucked inside buttery crostini for an appetizer-style bite. Alternatively, pile the shrimp on a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option without sacrificing flavor at all.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Shrimp can become rubbery if kept too long, so best to enjoy it fresh or the next day for optimal texture and flavor.

Freezing

Freezing shrimp scampi is not highly recommended because the texture of the shrimp can degrade after freezing and thawing. If you must freeze, place the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp scampi in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or white wine to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can quickly overcook the shrimp and dry out the buttery sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce and affect cooking.

What type of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best, as they contribute acidity and fresh flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe without wine?

Absolutely! You can substitute the wine with low-sodium chicken broth or even a splash of lemon juice and water to maintain the bright flavor profile.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus spears are great additions that not only add color but also bring their own subtle flavors and nutrient boosts.

How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe comes together in about 15 minutes, making it a perfect quick dinner option when you want something impressive but fast.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say that this Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe will become one of your go-to favorites for any occasion when you want a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and downright addicting. It’s a beautiful balance of buttery richness, garlicky punch, and bright freshness—a combo you’ll want again and again. Give it a whirl, and get ready for some serious compliments from anyone lucky enough to share it with you!

Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe