Pin Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is the dish I turn to when I want something elegant but effortless. Brimming with tender shrimp in a garlicky, buttery sauce brightened by a squeeze of lemon, it tastes like a night out but comes together in just twenty minutes. Serve it over pasta or scoop it up with a hunk of crusty bread for a meal that never fails to impress.
My family requests this shrimp scampi whenever they see shrimp at the market. The balance of savory and bright flavors means even picky eaters happily clean their plates.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp with a mild ocean scent for the sweetest flavor
- Garlic finely minced: Fresh garlic delivers the best punchy flavor use several plump cloves
- Shallot finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth Look for firm bulbs with shiny skins
- Unsalted butter: Quality butter makes the sauce silky and flavorful Opt for European style if you can
- Extra virgin olive oil: Fruity and peppery oils will boost the overall taste Pick one you enjoy on salads
- Dry white wine: Adds acidity and complexity A crisp variety like Sauvignon Blanc works best
- Lemon juice: Squeezed fresh for brightness and zing Choose heavy lemons that feel juicy
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Lends gentle heat Use as much or as little as you like
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Rounds out and sharpens every flavor Choose flaky salt and freshly cracked pepper
- Fresh parsley: Finely chopped for a herbal finish Look for vibrant green bunches with no wilted stems
- Lemon wedges: Optional for serving at the table
- Cooked linguine or spaghetti: Optional for a classic pasta pairing Cook until al dente and reserve a bit of pasta water
- Crusty bread: Optional for soaking up the extra sauce Select a rustic loaf with a chewy crumb
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp completely dry using paper towels and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to ensure they brown nicely and have great flavor
- Sear the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet melt the olive oil with half the butter over medium high heat Once the butter foams add the shrimp in a single layer Cook for about one to two minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque with slight brown edges Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside
- Build the Aromatics:
- Return the skillet to medium heat Add the remaining butter then sprinkle in the garlic and shallot if using Stir constantly for about one minute just until fragrant making sure the garlic does not brown
- Deglaze and Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan Let this simmer for two to three minutes to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors
- Finish and Combine:
- Return the cooked shrimp and any juices from the plate to the skillet Toss to coat the shrimp well in the garlicky sauce and warm them for another minute Do not overcook so the shrimp stay juicy
- Garnish and Serve:
- Stir in the fresh parsley and sprinkle in red pepper flakes if desired Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed Serve immediately over hot pasta or with thick slices of bread Garnish with lemon wedges and more parsley for freshness
Pin Shrimp is always the star for me This dish reminds me of childhood summer visits to the coast when my dad would cook up fresh shrimp with lots of garlic We would gather around the table and it truly felt like a feast
Storage Tips
Leftover shrimp scampi keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat so the shrimp do not become tough If planning to freeze make the sauce and shrimp only and add fresh pasta or bread when serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken broth or vegetable broth can stand in for white wine if needed For dairy free swaps use plant based butter For a vegetarian spin replace shrimp with mushrooms like oyster or cremini
Serving Suggestions
Pile shrimp and sauce high over linguine or spaghetti for a classic option I also love it spooned atop toasted sourdough If you want to lighten things up try serving over zucchini noodles with extra lemon
Cultural and Historical Context
Shrimp scampi originated as Italian immigrants in America adapted the classic Italian scampi method using local shrimp Garlic butter and wine make it an instant favorite in Italian American kitchens capturing the spirit of festive seafood feasts
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer top the shrimp scampi with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil In winter add a splash of cream to the sauce for decadence In spring pair with steamed asparagus or peas for brightness
Pin Once you try this recipe with the right shrimp and high quality butter you will see how simple food becomes special I love to serve it for casual dinners and fancy celebrations alike
Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the white wine?
Yes, replace white wine with chicken broth or a splash of water for an alcohol-free option without sacrificing flavor.
- → What kind of shrimp should I use?
Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal. Fresh or frozen can both work; just thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly before cooking.
- → Is this best served with pasta or bread?
It's delicious both ways! Serve over pasta for a heartier plate or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- → Can I make it spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a gentle kick; adjust the amount to your heat preference.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Sauté shrimp just until pink and opaque—usually 1-2 minutes per side—to keep them tender and juicy.
- → Are there dairy-free options?
For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative to maintain the sauce's rich flavor.