Shrimp Scampi is a quick and easy dish that combines succulent shrimp with a garlic-infused butter and white wine sauce. Often served over pasta or with crusty bread, this dish is perfect for a romantic dinner, an elegant meal, or a simple weeknight dinner that feels luxurious without being too heavy.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the perfect Shrimp Scampi, from the classic recipe to creative variations that will suit any dietary needs or taste preferences.

The Origins of Shrimp Scampi

The word “scampi” traditionally refers to a specific type of small lobster (also called langoustine) found in the Mediterranean and Atlantic waters. In Italy, “scampi” dishes feature these small lobsters cooked in olive oil, garlic, and white wine. When the dish migrated to the United States, shrimp was more commonly available than langoustine, so it became the substitute, but the name “shrimp scampi” stuck.

The American version of Shrimp Scampi has evolved into a garlicky, buttery shrimp dish often tossed with pasta or served with bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Why Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp Scampi is a go-to for many reasons, especially for those seeking a balance of flavor, simplicity, and elegance. Here’s why:

1. Quick to Make: Shrimp Scampi is a dish you can have on the table in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something special.
2. Flavorful but Light: The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine creates a sauce that is rich in flavor but not heavy. The shrimp add a succulent texture and mild sweetness that balances out the tangy and garlicky notes of the sauce.
3. Versatile Serving Options: Shrimp Scampi can be served over pasta, zucchini noodles, or rice, or alongside crusty bread to mop up the sauce. Its versatility makes it adaptable for different meals, from casual to formal.
4. Elegant Yet Simple: Despite its simple preparation, Shrimp Scampi looks and tastes like an upscale dish, perfect for entertaining or a romantic dinner.

Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Let’s start with a classic Shrimp Scampi recipe that delivers a burst of flavors with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta (like linguine or spaghetti) or crusty bread for serving
• Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in the white wine and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, reducing the wine slightly.
5. Add the lemon juice and remaining butter: Stir in the lemon juice and the last tablespoon of butter, whisking until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Finish the dish: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, tossing them to coat in the sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat.
7. Serve: Serve the shrimp scampi over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.

Variations on Shrimp Scampi

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, there are plenty of ways to customize Shrimp Scampi to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few delicious variations:

1. Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles (Low-Carb)

For a lighter, low-carb version of Shrimp Scampi, swap out the pasta for spiralized zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles. The zucchini soaks up the sauce beautifully and adds a refreshing element to the dish.

Low-Carb Recipe Idea:

• Ingredients: Replace pasta with 3-4 spiralized zucchini, sautéed lightly in olive oil.
• Method: Prepare the shrimp and sauce as in the classic recipe, then toss with the zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

2. Creamy Shrimp Scampi

If you’re looking for a richer, creamier dish, you can add heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce, turning this light dish into a more decadent meal.

Creamy Recipe Idea:

• Ingredients: Add ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half.
• Method: After adding the white wine, stir in the cream and let the sauce thicken before returning the shrimp to the skillet.

3. Spicy Shrimp Scampi

For those who enjoy a little heat, adding extra crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers can give Shrimp Scampi a spicy kick.

Spicy Recipe Idea:

• Ingredients: Increase the crushed red pepper to 1 teaspoon, or add a finely diced chili pepper.
• Method: Sauté the chili pepper with the garlic for an extra-spicy version of Shrimp Scampi.

4. Shrimp Scampi with Asparagus

For an added dose of vegetables, asparagus is a great addition to Shrimp Scampi. The asparagus spears provide a nice crunch and complement the tender shrimp.

Shrimp Scampi with Asparagus Recipe Idea:

• Ingredients: Add 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces.
• Method: Sauté the asparagus in the skillet after cooking the shrimp, then add them back into the sauce with the shrimp.

5. Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes

Adding cherry tomatoes to Shrimp Scampi provides a burst of sweetness and extra flavor, making the dish more colorful and fresh.

Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes Recipe Idea:

• Ingredients: Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes.
• Method: Toss the tomatoes into the sauce along with the shrimp for a bright, flavorful twist.

Cooking Methods: Stove, Oven, and Grill

While the stovetop is the most common way to make Shrimp Scampi, you can experiment with other cooking methods to suit your preferences or available tools.

Stovetop Shrimp Scampi

This is the traditional method for making Shrimp Scampi, where the shrimp are sautéed in butter and garlic before being combined with a simple wine sauce.

Oven-Baked Shrimp Scampi

For a more hands-off approach, you can bake Shrimp Scampi in the oven. Simply arrange the shrimp in a baking dish, top with the garlic, butter, and wine sauce, and bake until the shrimp are cooked through.

Grilled Shrimp Scampi

For a smoky flavor, grill the shrimp and then toss them in the garlic and butter sauce. This method works especially well during summer barbecues or outdoor meals.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh, wild-caught shrimp will provide the best flavor, but frozen shrimp also work well. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
• Balance the flavors: The combination of butter, garlic, lemon, and white wine creates a perfect balance of richness, acidity, and brightness. Adjust these elements to taste, but be careful not to overdo any one component.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi is a light, flavorful, and elegant dish that’s quick to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore some of the variations like low-carb, creamy, or spicy Shrimp Scampi, you’re guaranteed a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, Shrimp Scampi can easily become a staple in your recipe rotation.