If you love the taste of garlicky, buttery seafood but dread long cooking times, this Quick Shrimp Scampi Recipe is your new best friend. In under 20 minutes, you can have tender shrimp swimming in a zesty garlic-butter sauce, perfectly paired with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread. This recipe is beginner-friendly, uses simple pantry ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the tangy lemon, fragrant garlic, and rich butter sauce come together to create a dish that’s elegant, satisfying, and fast. So grab your skillet and let’s get started on this crowd-pleasing seafood classic.
Why Quick Shrimp Scampi Works Every Time
Fast and Flavorful
Shrimp cook quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner. In just a few minutes, the garlic, butter, and lemon meld into a rich sauce that clings to every shrimp. This combination of speed and flavor is what makes shrimp scampi a staple in American kitchens.
Elegant Yet Simple
Despite looking impressive, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can serve a meal that tastes like it took hours to create. The vibrant colors of golden shrimp and fresh herbs add visual appeal, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients for Quick Shrimp Scampi
Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Meal
This Quick Shrimp Scampi uses easy-to-find ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner. Everything comes together quickly, giving you a rich, flavorful dish without complicated steps.
| Category | Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Seafood | Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 lb (16–20 count) |
| Pasta / Base | Spaghetti or linguine | 8 oz |
| Sauce | Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves | |
| Lemon juice | 3 tbsp | |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp | |
| Seasoning | Salt | 1/2 tsp (or to taste) |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 tsp | |
| Fresh Herbs | Parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp |
| Optional | Grated Parmesan | 2–3 tbsp for serving |
Ingredient Tips
- Use medium or large shrimp for best texture; adjust cooking time slightly for smaller or jumbo shrimp.
- Fresh garlic and lemon juice make a noticeable difference in flavor, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
- Cooking pasta al dente ensures it pairs perfectly with the buttery sauce without becoming mushy.
How to Make Quick Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water to help create the sauce if needed, and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Reduce heat slightly and add the remaining butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the sauce thicken for 1–2 minutes. If it seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce and shrimp. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Quick Shrimp Scampi
Use Fresh or High-Quality Shrimp
Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp work well too. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in your sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook very quickly—usually 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their delicate flavor, so watch closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Balance the Flavors
The key to a perfect scampi is balancing garlic, butter, lemon, and seasoning. Taste as you go, adjusting salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
Enhance the Sauce
For extra richness, stir in a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the noodles evenly. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan adds color and flavor, making the dish look and taste restaurant-quality.
Serving Suggestions for Quick Shrimp Scampi
Serve Over Pasta or Rice
While classic spaghetti or linguine is traditional, shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with angel hair pasta, fettuccine, or even a bed of steamed rice. Toss the pasta in the buttery, garlicky sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
Add Fresh Veggies or Side Salads
Lightly sautéed asparagus, green beans, or cherry tomatoes complement the richness of the scampi. A crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the meal.
Pair with Bread
Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the extra buttery sauce. It’s perfect for ensuring no delicious sauce is left behind.
Beverage Pairings
For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, try sparkling apple cider, iced tea with lemon, or a citrus fruit spritzer. These drinks enhance the bright, lemony flavors of the scampi and keep the meal light and enjoyable.
Variations and Creative Twists for Quick Shrimp Scampi
Add Extra Vegetables
Mix in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini noodles for a colorful, nutrient-packed twist. These additions not only make the dish visually appealing but also enhance flavor and texture without slowing down cooking time.
Try Different Pasta or Base
While traditional linguine or spaghetti works best, you can also serve the shrimp scampi over rice, quinoa, or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option. Each base absorbs the buttery garlic sauce differently, offering a slightly unique experience.
Spicy Kick
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. This balances the richness of the butter and adds a subtle zing that elevates the flavors.
Cheesy Twist
Top with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano just before serving. A sprinkle of cheese adds a creamy, salty touch that enhances the garlic-lemon flavor.
Herb Variations
Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or dill instead of parsley. Different herbs bring unique aromatics to the dish, making it versatile for multiple meals.
Print
Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4
Description
A fast and flavorful shrimp scampi recipe with garlic, butter, and lemon, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Ingredients
- Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined – 1 lb (16–20 count)
- Spaghetti or linguine – 8 oz
- Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Garlic, minced – 4 cloves
- Lemon juice – 3 tbsp
- Lemon zest – 1 tsp
- Salt – 1/2 tsp (or to taste)
- Black pepper – 1/4 tsp
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – 1/4 tsp
- Parsley, chopped – 2 tbsp
- Grated Parmesan – 2–3 tbsp (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions, reserving ½ cup pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Reduce heat slightly, add remaining butter, lemon juice, and zest. Stir to combine; add pasta water if needed.
- Toss cooked pasta with shrimp and sauce. Sprinkle parsley and Parmesan on top. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor. Can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach. Reheat gently for leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
Storing, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips for Quick Shrimp Scampi
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid keeping it longer, as shrimp can become rubbery and the sauce may lose its fresh flavor.
Reheating Properly
Reheat gently to maintain the delicate texture of the shrimp. Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or a teaspoon of olive oil to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Avoid microwaving at high power for long periods, which can make shrimp tough and the sauce separate.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep the garlic, butter, and lemon sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. When ready, quickly cook the shrimp and toss everything together. This method makes weeknight dinners faster while keeping flavors fresh.
FAQs About Quick Shrimp Scampi
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid watery sauce.
What type of pasta is best?
Spaghetti or linguine is classic, but angel hair or fettuccine works too. For a lighter option, try zucchini noodles or rice.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can prep the sauce and have the shrimp ready to cook. Combine and heat quickly for a fresh-tasting meal.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Shrimp cook very fast—about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes, spinach, zucchini, or asparagus add color, texture, and nutrition.
How long does it keep?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Quick Shrimp Scampi is the perfect dish for busy weeknights, date nights, or casual gatherings when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender shrimp, garlicky butter sauce, and a hint of lemon, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in just 20 minutes. Its versatility allows you to serve it over pasta, rice, or even with spiralized vegetables, while optional add-ins like cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of Parmesan take it to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this shrimp scampi recipe is simple, elegant, and satisfying. By following these easy steps and tips, you can create a delicious, visually appealing meal that impresses everyone at the table. Enjoy the bright flavors, comforting butter sauce, and the quick satisfaction of this classic seafood favorite.