Shrimp scampi is the ultimate comfort dish that combines simplicity with elegance. With its tender, succulent shrimp bathed in a buttery garlic sauce and a bright burst of lemon, this recipe feels fancy but comes together in no time. Inspired by the flavors of Red Lobster’s iconic dish, this version is perfect for a special dinner at home or a quick weeknight treat.

Serve it over a bed of pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce. No matter how you plate it, this shrimp scampi is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, bread, or even as a low-carb option with zucchini noodles.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon is simply irresistible.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Save time and money by recreating a classic dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ cup dry white cooking stock (or chicken broth, optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

For Serving:

• 12 oz linguine or angel hair pasta (cooked al dente)
• Crusty bread (for dipping)

How to Make Classic Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Scampi Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the white cooking stock (or chicken broth) and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor.
4. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the buttery garlic sauce.
2. Serve immediately over cooked pasta or alongside crusty bread.
3. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and additional parsley if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh or frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent a rubbery texture.
• Make It Creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end.
• Wine Option: If you’d like a more authentic flavor, use a splash of white wine instead of cooking stock or chicken broth.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Notes

• For a low-carb option, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or serve the shrimp over a bed of sautéed spinach.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use precooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them to the sauce at the very end, just long enough to warm them up. Overheating can make them rubbery.

What type of pasta works best?
Linguine or angel hair pasta pairs beautifully with the light sauce, but spaghetti or fettuccine would also work well.

Can I substitute the butter?
For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Related Recipes

If you love this shrimp scampi, you might enjoy these dishes:

• Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi: A Timeless Classic to Make at Home
• A Warm Seafood Casserole to Delight Your Senses

Conclusion

Classic shrimp scampi is a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare. The rich, buttery garlic sauce, accented with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon, elevates humble shrimp into a restaurant-worthy meal. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread to mop up the sauce, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So grab your skillet and get cooking—this quick, flavorful dish is just minutes away from becoming your new go-to dinner!

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