Dinner

Delicious Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter in 20 Minutes Recipe

Name: Delicious Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter in 20 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled; 4 tablespoons butter (can use vegan butter); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 0.5 cup white wine or chicken broth; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh or bottled); 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Pinch of red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: cooked pasta, drained

ByMatteo Rossi March 15, 2026March 15, 2026

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Introduction

Savor the flavors of this delicious shrimp scampi with garlic butter, ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and a bright lemon sauce. Pair it with pasta for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

The dish features a single layer of thick, creamy yellow spaghetti noodles arranged in a pan, topped with a generous layer of cooked shrimp that are light pink with brighter orange tails. The shrimp are sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and black pepper, adding specks of green and dark contrast. At the top center is a bright yellow lemon wedge resting on the shrimp, enhancing the fresh look of the dish. The pan has a black rim, and the background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound fresh or frozen shrimp (peeled)
4 tablespoons butter (can use vegan butter)
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
0.5 cup white wine or chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh or bottled)
0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your choice of pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Flip each shrimp and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fully cooked. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Step 6: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Lower the heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Stir to combine.
Step 8: Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add the drained pasta if desired and mix thoroughly.
Step 9: Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges for brightness.

Tips & Variations

Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Swap white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version with equally delicious flavor.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
For extra richness, finish the sauce with a splash of heavy cream.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. It’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.