30-Minute Shrimp Scampi Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Weeknights
Shrimp scampi is one of those dishes that feels restaurant-level fancy but is shockingly easy to whip up at home. With buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and a splash of lemon, this classic dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, and you’ve got dinner that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.
This is the kind of recipe that belongs in your weeknight rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi
- Quick and easy: On the table in 30 minutes or less.
- Crowd-pleaser: Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights.
- Customizable: Works with pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles.
- Restaurant quality at home: Save money and impress your family.
Recipe Overview
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti (optional, if serving with pasta)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra wedges for serving)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Cutting board and knife
- Pasta pot (if serving with noodles)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
How to Make Shrimp Scampi
- Cook the pasta (if using): Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in white wine (or broth), lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Combine everything: Return shrimp to skillet. Add pasta (if using) and toss with sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen.
- Finish and serve: Top with parsley, Parmesan, and lemon wedges. Serve hot.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
- Use large shrimp: They cook quickly but still stay juicy.
- Don’t overcook shrimp: They only need a couple minutes per side.
- Good wine matters: If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it.
- Balance flavors: Adjust lemon juice, butter, and salt to taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking pasta: Undercook slightly since it will finish in the sauce.
- Burning garlic: Garlic cooks fast—keep the heat medium to avoid bitterness.
- Not drying shrimp: Pat shrimp dry before cooking so they sear instead of steam.
- Skipping the pasta water: It’s key for a silky sauce that clings to the noodles.
Variations and Substitutions
- No wine? Use chicken broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
- Gluten-free: Swap pasta for gluten-free noodles or zucchini spirals.
- Extra heat: Add more red pepper flakes or even a touch of cayenne.
- Veggie boost: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for color and nutrition.
- Creamy version: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream for a richer sauce.
How to Store and Meal Prep
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to avoid drying out.
- Meal prep tip: Cook shrimp and sauce separately, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Serve over pasta with garlic bread for a classic Italian-American dinner.
- Pair with rice or quinoa for a lighter option.
- Skip carbs and serve shrimp scampi with roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh pop of color.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
What kind of wine works best?
A dry white like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use all olive oil instead of butter.
Is shrimp scampi healthy?
It’s lighter than many pasta dishes, especially if served with veggies or zucchini noodles.
Related Post: Baked Ziti with Ricotta
Conclusion
This 30-Minute Shrimp Scampi Recipe proves that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a dish that tastes gourmet. With buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and fresh lemon, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Serve it for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you just want something quick but impressive.
Once you try it, this shrimp scampi might just become your weeknight secret weapon.