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shrimp scampi recipe

20-Minute Shrimp Scampi Recipe – Easy, Delicious & Restaurant-Style Pasta

A fast, buttery, garlicky Shrimp Scampi recipe that tastes like a restaurant meal but comes together in just 20 minutes. Bright lemon, tender shrimp, and a silky sauce make this a family favorite weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt for pasta water
  • Fresh Parmesan to serve

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp 1–2 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate.
  3. Add remaining butter to the skillet. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in wine or broth and simmer until reduced by half. Add lemon zest and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Return shrimp to the skillet. Add pasta along with a splash of pasta water and toss until glossy and well coated.
  6. Finish with parsley and Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp; remove from heat as soon as they curl into a C-shape. Fresh garlic and lemon give the best flavor. For variations: add cream for a richer sauce, increase chili flakes for heat, or serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

  • Author: Ouma Carter