There's nothing quite like the combination of tender shrimp, rich garlic butter, and perfectly cooked pasta to create an irresistibly flavorful dish. Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is the kind of meal that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make at home in under 30 minutes.

I first made this dish on a hectic weeknight when I needed something quick but satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples, I was able to whip up a restaurant-quality dinner that had everyone at the table reaching for seconds. Now, it's one of my go-to recipes when I want something indulgent yet effortless.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite seafood dish. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi isn't just packed with flavor—it’s also a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy. The entire dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for when you're short on time but still want a homemade meal.

It’s also budget-friendly. Shrimp might sound like a splurge, but with just a few other simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish at a fraction of the cost.

The flavors are irresistible. The garlic butter sauce, combined with white wine and a hint of lemon, creates a rich, tangy, and savory taste that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp.

Best of all, this recipe is versatile. You can serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or even alongside roasted vegetables. Whatever you choose, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a mouthwatering dish.

Shrimp is the star of the show. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, as they stay juicy and tender when cooked. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

The garlic butter sauce is what makes this dish shine. Fresh garlic, melted butter, and a touch of olive oil create a rich and aromatic base that coats the shrimp and pasta beautifully.

For a touch of acidity, white wine or chicken broth adds depth and balances the richness of the butter. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, chicken broth works just as well without compromising flavor.

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings brightness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and complementing the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Finally, pasta is the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that delicious sauce. I love using linguine or spaghetti, but you can use any pasta you have on hand.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining, as it can help loosen the sauce later if needed.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and half of the butter, allowing it to melt before adding the shrimp. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook them for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Then, pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and add a generous squeeze of lemon juice. Toss everything together, allowing the shrimp to absorb the flavors. Then, add the cooked pasta and gently mix to coat it in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy every garlicky, buttery bite!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since shrimp can become tough when reheated, it's best to warm them gently over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to restore moisture.

I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the texture of the shrimp can change once thawed. However, if you do need to freeze it, store the shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta for better results.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to try:

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Both work beautifully with the rich garlic butter sauce.

Want to add more vegetables? Try tossing in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a fresh and vibrant twist.

For extra heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. It adds a subtle kick that balances the richness of the dish.

No white wine on hand? Use chicken broth instead. It still provides depth of flavor without the alcohol.

Experiment with different herbs and cheeses. While parsley and Parmesan are classic choices, fresh basil or Pecorino Romano can bring a new dimension to the dish.

No matter how you customize it, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is guaranteed to be a meal you’ll want to make again and again!