Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Cooked pasta or crusty bread

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter on a busy weeknight. The combination of succulent shrimp, fragrant garlic, and zesty lemon creates a dish that feels special yet is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal time, I can whip up a mouthwatering meal that impresses everyone at the table. This recipe has become my go-to for gatherings, and I often pair it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will be in for a treat!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:49:34.817Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a flavorful dish. The key is to not overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and curled for the perfect texture. I also learned that adding the lemon juice right at the end helps retain the fresh citrus flavor without cooking it down too much.

One evening, I decided to experiment by finishing the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes, which added complexity and vibrancy. The result was a stunning dish that has become a staple in my home kitchen, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp bathed in silky lemon butter sauce
A perfect blend of garlic and citrus that brightens every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

Perfecting Your Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this dish. I recommend large, fresh shrimp for optimal texture and flavor. Look for shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild, briny scent. If frozen shrimp are your only option, choose ones that are shelled and deveined for convenience, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to prevent a rubbery texture. Simply place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes for quick thawing.

When sautéing shrimp, it's important to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures that they cook evenly and develop a nice sear. If necessary, cook in batches. After adding them to the skillet, pay attention to their color—they should turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to a tough texture, so keep a close eye on them.

Creating the Lemon Butter Sauce

The lemon butter sauce is where the magic happens. As you sauté the garlic, be careful to avoid burning it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor. You'll know it's ready when it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, which usually takes about a minute. This is the foundation of your sauce, contributing a rich and aromatic layer to the shrimp.

Adding lemon juice and zest at the end of cooking brightens the dish beautifully. I find that freshly squeezed lemon juice gives a lively zing that's hard to replicate with bottled varieties. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it—this captures essential oils that enhance the sauce's flavor. If you're looking for a twist, try adding a splash of white wine before the lemon juice; it adds depth and complexity to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

While this Shrimp Scampi can stand alone, pairing it with a side makes it even more satisfying. Tossed pasta coated in olive oil and garlic complements the shrimp beautifully, allowing every bite to soak up that luscious sauce. I recommend using spaghetti or linguine; their long strands grab hold of the sauce effortlessly. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread—a perfect vessel for sopping up the remaining sauce on your plate.

For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This balances the richness of the dish while enhancing the overall dining experience. You can also make it extra special by adding grated Parmesan cheese over the top right before serving, which melts slightly into the warm dish, creating a deliciously creamy texture.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

To Serve

Cooked pasta or crusty bread

Instructions

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil together. Add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Combine and Serve

Return the shrimp to the skillet, then add the lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together, cooking for an additional minute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with pasta or crusty bread.

Pro Tips

To make the dish even more flavorful, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic, allowing it to reduce slightly before adding the shrimp.

Make-Ahead Tips

Shrimp Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some components ahead of time. For instance, you can peel and devein the shrimp a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This saves time on a busy weeknight. Just make sure to re-season them before cooking, as flavors can dull when stored.

You can also prepare the garlic and lemon zest ahead of time and store them in separate containers. This way, when you're ready to cook, the meal can be on the table in under 20 minutes. Just remember to use fresh lemon juice just before cooking for maximum brightness.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. You can add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to keep the dish moist while reheating.

Avoid microwaving as it often leads to rubbery shrimp. Instead, gently stir the scampi in a skillet until warmed through. If needed, you can also toss in a bit more butter or olive oil for added richness when reheating.

Dietary Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish lighter, consider substituting the butter with a good-quality olive oil for the sauce. It will still provide a rich texture while reducing saturated fats. You can also use shrimp alternatives if you follow a pescatarian diet or are allergic to shellfish—try using faux shrimp made from plant-based ingredients.

For a gluten-free option, serve the Shrimp Scampi over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta. This not only accommodates dietary restrictions but also adds a fresh twist to the dish, keeping it light and healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they're fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

→ What can I substitute for lemon?

You can use lime juice or a splash of white wine for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced fresh chili.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can pre-cook the shrimp and store them in the refrigerator before combining with the sauce.