Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe – A Classic Italian Delight Recipe
Introduction
Savor the bright, garlicky flavors of this easy shrimp scampi recipe, a classic Italian dish that comes together quickly and perfectly. Whether served over linguine or enjoyed on its own, it’s a delightful meal that feels both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/3 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
- 8 oz linguine pasta (optional, cooked)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
- Step 1: If using pasta, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Step 3: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Step 5: Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Step 6: Stir in fresh lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Step 8: Toss shrimp with cooked linguine if using, or serve immediately with crusty bread. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, use clarified butter instead of regular butter.
- Swap linguine for spaghetti or angel hair pasta for a different texture.
- Add a splash of cream to create a creamy garlic sauce variation.
- Use chicken broth instead of white wine to make the dish alcohol-free.
Storage
Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp, or microwave briefly until warmed through.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sauté properly and don’t release excess water.
What can I serve with shrimp scampi besides pasta?
Shrimp scampi pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
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Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe – A Classic Italian Delight Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlicky butter and olive oil sauce, enhanced with a splash of white wine and fresh lemon juice. Served over linguine or alone as a delicious appetizer, it makes a quick and elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Shrimp Scampi
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional
- 8 oz linguine pasta (cooked according to package instructions)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: If using pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Fat: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely.
- Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Deglaze: Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavor.
- Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Finish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped parsley to bring freshness and color.
- Serve: Toss the shrimp and sauce with the cooked linguine pasta or serve shrimp scampi alone with crusty bread. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth for white wine for a non-alcoholic version.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to desired spice level or omit entirely for a mild flavor.
- For a lower-fat option, reduce the butter quantity and increase olive oil slightly.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: shrimp scampi, easy shrimp recipe, Italian shrimp, garlic butter shrimp, quick seafood pasta

