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Shrimp Scampi Recipe

This easy shrimp scampi recipe is buttery, garlicky, and foolproof. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a restaurant-quality meal perfect for weeknights, date nights, or family gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 19 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
  • 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti optional, for serving
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 large lemon about 3 tablespoons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. If serving with pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  5. Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  6. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining tablespoon of butter. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If serving with pasta, add the cooked linguine directly into the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water, and toss until everything is well combined.
  8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.