Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter

Name: Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter when I'm looking for a quick yet elegant meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and rich butter creates a dish that's bursting with flavor. It's perfect for impressing guests or treating myself on a busy weeknight. With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is both accessible and satisfying. I often pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce, making it an all-around favorite in my household.

Created by

Phoebe Langridge

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:10:42.814Z

In my kitchen, Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Butter has become a go-to dish for both its speed and flavor. I often experiment with fresh ingredients, and this combination of garlic, lemon, and butter always wins. One evening, I decided to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, and it elevated the dish to a whole new level!

I've learned that timing is key with shrimp—overcooking can make them tough. Immediately taking them off the heat once they turn pink guarantees a tender bite, making this dish truly unforgettable. The aroma that fills my home while it cooks is simply divine!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy shrimp coated in a rich, buttery sauce infused with fresh lemon.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh garden salad.

      

Perfecting the Shrimp

When selecting shrimp for this dish, opt for large, fresh shrimp when possible; they'll provide the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to fully thaw them before cooking for even cooking results. Once prepped, the shrimp should be cooked on medium heat in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. Look for a vibrant pink color and an opaque appearance to know when they are perfectly done, taking care not to overcook, as they can turn rubbery quickly.

Incorporating garlic at the right moment is crucial for maximizing flavor. Sauté the garlic until it's fragrant—approximately one minute—before adding the shrimp, as extending its time in the pan could cause it to burn and turn bitter. If you choose to include red pepper flakes, start with a small amount; you can always add more later if you desire increased heat.

Enhancing the Sauce

The sauce is where the magic happens in this recipe. After cooking the shrimp, adding the lemon juice and zest not only brightens the flavor but also balances the richness of the butter. To achieve a glossy consistency, let the sauce simmer briefly; this ensures that the butter emulsifies with the juices, creating a cohesive sauce that clings beautifully to your shrimp and chosen side.

Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end; the butter can mellow out the flavors, so a pinch more salt or an extra squeeze of lemon can elevate the dish significantly. Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness, but feel free to customize with other herbs like basil or thyme for a different aromatic profile, bringing an exciting twist to the classic scampi.

Serving Suggestions

For an appealing presentation, serve the shrimp scampi over a bed of cooked pasta or rice to soak up the delicious lemon-butter sauce. For a lighter option, consider a garden salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. I often enjoy adding sautéed spinach or steamed asparagus for color and nutrition, adding to both texture and flavor harmony in the meal.

If you're preparing this dish for a gathering, consider scaling up the recipe. This dish can easily be doubled by using a larger skillet, ensuring that the shrimp are still in a single layer for even cooking. Just be sure to allow some extra time to ensure the flavors meld beautifully, and keep an eye on the cooking time; larger quantities may take a minute longer to reach a perfect finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Shrimp Scampi:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Shrimp Scampi:

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are just pink.

Add Lemon and Finish Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the juice of the lemon over them and sprinkle the lemon zest. Stir in the remaining butter and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute until the sauce is slightly thickened.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

This dish is best served hot, paired with a chilled glass of white wine.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while cooking the shrimp. It complements the lemon beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover shrimp scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, it’s best to avoid freezing, as shrimp can become rubbery once thawed. When reheating, gently warm the dish in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp further, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce as needed.

If you prefer to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the shrimp and sauce separately. Store the sauce in the refrigerator and sauté the shrimp fresh when you’re ready to serve. This ensures that the shrimp remain tender and juicy, while still enjoying the rich flavors developed in the sauce.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to experiment with the basic scampi recipe! For a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream once the butter has melted—this adds a luxurious touch without overpowering the lemon flavor. For a different kick, consider adding capers or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy contrast that works beautifully with the rich butter and shrimp.

Another tasty variation includes substituting the shrimp with scallops or a mix of seafood, like mussels and clams. Adjust the cooking times slightly, as scallops will cook faster than shrimp, while mussels and clams require a bit longer until they open up. This not only diversifies the flavors but also creates an impressive seafood medley that’s perfect for special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure you thaw them properly before cooking for the best results.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?

Shrimp Scampi is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and add the shrimp just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of butter for a healthier option?

You can substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter for a lighter version.

→ How do I know when the shrimp is done cooking?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, which can make them tough.