Treat yourself to the ultimate comfort of perfectly cooked shrimp scampi, where tender seafood meets a luxurious garlic-butter sauce.
This iconic Italian-American dish combines succulent shrimp with fresh herbs and zesty citrus notes to create a restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen.
We’ve curated 10 outstanding shrimp scampi recipes that will help you master this classic dish.
From traditional preparations to creative variations featuring different herbs and seasonings, you’ll discover new ways to elevate your seafood game.
Each recipe offers unique techniques and ingredient combinations while maintaining the dish’s signature buttery, garlic-forward profile.
Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta
Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta is a luxurious yet simple Italian-American dish that you can prepare in under 30 minutes.
This restaurant-quality meal combines succulent shrimp with perfectly cooked angel hair pasta, all tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb angel hair pasta
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for the pasta.
Step 2: Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pan, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute.
Step 5: Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions.
Step 6: Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
Step 7: Return shrimp to the pan and add drained pasta, tossing everything together.
Step 8: Add parsley, season with salt and pepper, and top with Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should form a “C” shape when done, but if they curl into an “O” shape, they’re overcooked. Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; you can use it to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Lemon-Herb Mediterranean Style Shrimp Scampi
Transform your dinner into a coastal Mediterranean feast with this vibrant and zesty shrimp scampi.
This light yet satisfying dish combines succulent shrimp with bright citrus notes, fresh herbs, and garlic, creating a perfect balance of flavors that transport you to a seaside café.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces linguine pasta
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook linguine according to package instructions.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until butter melts.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add shrimp to the pan, cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Step 5: Stir in lemon juice, zest, and fresh herbs.
Step 6: Toss in the cooked pasta and season with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Mix well and serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should form a “C” shape when done. If they curl into a tight “O” shape, they’re overcooked. For the best flavor, use fresh herbs rather than dried ones in this recipe.
Coconut Milk and Herb Shrimp Scampi
Transform your regular shrimp scampi into a tropical delight with this coconut milk-infused version.
This creamy, aromatic dish combines succulent shrimp with fresh herbs and coconut milk, creating a luxurious sauce that’s perfect over pasta or rice.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces linguine or rice noodles
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 3: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink.
Step 4: Pour in coconut milk, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 5: Stir in fresh basil and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Toss with cooked pasta and serve immediately.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should form a ‘C’ shape when done. If they curl into an ‘O’ shape, they’re overcooked. Also, use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce texture.
Spicy Cajun-Style Shrimp Scampi
Transform your dinner into a New Orleans-inspired feast with this zesty twist on classic shrimp scampi.
This dish combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the traditional garlic-butter base, creating a perfect balance of heat and savory goodness that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces linguine pasta
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
Step 2: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
Step 3: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Step 4: Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Add cooked pasta, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Toss until well combined, adding pasta water if needed.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should form a “C” shape when done, not a tight “O” shape which indicates they’re overcooked. Also, have all your ingredients prepped before starting, as this dish comes together quickly and timing is crucial for perfect results.
Light and Fresh Zucchini Noodle Shrimp Scampi
Transform your dinner into a healthy, low-carb delight with this refreshing twist on traditional shrimp scampi.
By substituting regular pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles), you’ll create a light, flavorful dish that’s packed with nutrients and ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
• 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 lemon, juiced
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Spiralize your zucchini and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pan, add butter and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 5: Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 6: Add zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 7: Return shrimp to the pan, add parsley, and toss everything together.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your zoodles – they should remain slightly firm to prevent becoming mushy. For best results, salt your zucchini noodles and let them drain in a colander for 10 minutes before cooking to remove excess water.
Creamy Parmesan Shrimp Scampi
Creamy Parmesan Shrimp Scampi is a luxurious and comforting Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, garlicky cream sauce.
This elevated version of traditional shrimp scampi adds Parmesan cheese and heavy cream for an extra layer of indulgence that will make your dinner feel restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces linguine pasta
Step 1: Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Step 2: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pan, add remaining butter and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (30 seconds).
Step 5: Pour in heavy cream, add Italian seasoning, and simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Return shrimp to the pan, add cooked pasta, and toss everything together. Add pasta water if needed.
Step 8: Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.
Pro Tip: Make sure not to overcook your shrimp – they should form a “C” shape when done, not a tight “O” shape which indicates they’re overcooked. Also, always reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s your secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Basil Shrimp Scampi
Transform your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience with this vibrant and flavorful shrimp scampi.
The sweet, burst cherry tomatoes combine perfectly with fragrant basil and succulent shrimp, all tossed in a light, garlicky butter sauce that coats your favorite pasta.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
• 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes until they burst.
Step 2: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute.
Step 4: Add shrimp to the skillet, cooking 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
Step 5: Add roasted tomatoes, lemon juice, and pasta water. Toss in the cooked pasta and fresh basil.
Step 6: Season to taste and serve immediately.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should form a “C” shape when done, not a tight “O” shape which indicates they’re overcooked. For the best flavor, use the freshest basil you can find and add it at the very end to preserve its aromatic properties.
Gluten-Free Cauliflower Rice Shrimp Scampi
Satisfy your craving for Italian cuisine with this light and flavorful Gluten-Free Cauliflower Rice Shrimp Scampi.
This healthy twist on the classic dish swaps traditional pasta for cauliflower rice, making it perfect for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet while maintaining all the delicious garlicky, lemony flavors you love.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium cauliflower head, riced
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Rice your cauliflower by pulsing florets in a food processor until rice-sized pieces form.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan, add remaining oil and butter. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add cauliflower rice and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Return shrimp to the pan, add parsley, and cook for additional 2 minutes until heated through.
Pro Tip: Make sure not to overcook your cauliflower rice – it should maintain a slight crunch for the best texture. Pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden sear.
Citrus-Infused Olive Oil Shrimp Scampi
Transform your regular shrimp scampi into a bright, zesty masterpiece with this citrus-infused version.
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with fresh citrus notes and aromatic garlic, creating a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
Step 1: Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add shrimp to the pan, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly curled.
Step 4: Stir in citrus zest, juices, and half the parsley. Cook for another minute.
Step 5: Add cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to combine. Add pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with remaining parsley.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp – they should form a “C” shape when done, not a tight “O” shape which indicates overcooking. For the best citrus flavor, zest your fruits before juicing them, as the oils in the zest contain intense flavor compounds.
Garlic Butter Sheet Pan Shrimp Scampi
Garlic Butter Sheet Pan Shrimp Scampi is a delightful, restaurant-quality dish you can easily prepare at home.
This one-pan wonder combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, all roasted to perfection on a single sheet pan.
Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma as this classic dish comes together in just minutes.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 tablespoons butter, melted
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced for garnish
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and half of the parsley.
Step 3: Place shrimp on the prepared sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Step 5: Bake for 8-10 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 6: Garnish with remaining parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Pro Tip: To ensure even cooking, make sure your shrimp are similar in size and arranged in a single layer on the sheet pan. Watch carefully during the final minutes of cooking, as shrimp can quickly go from perfectly done to overcooked.
Frequently Asked Questions
What key ingredients are needed for a classic shrimp scampi recipe?
Fresh shrimp, garlic, butter, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes form the base of classic scampi. Add pasta or crusty bread to complete the dish.
How do you prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery in scampi?
Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat immediately to maintain their tender, succulent texture.
What’s the best type of shrimp to use for scampi?
Choose large or jumbo shrimp (16-20 count per pound) that are peeled and deveined. Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp both work well for optimal results.
Can you make shrimp scampi ahead of time?
Prepare the sauce and marinate shrimp up to 4 hours in advance. Cook the shrimp just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
What side dishes pair best with shrimp scampi?
Serve your scampi over linguine, angel hair pasta, or rice. Roasted vegetables and fresh garden salad make perfect accompaniments to complete your meal.
Final Thoughts
Now you’re ready to create restaurant-quality shrimp scampi at home!
Remember to never overcook your shrimp – they should be pink and opaque, with a gentle C-shape.
Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp and keep that garlic-butter sauce light to let the seafood shine.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste, and don’t forget that splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
Serve your scampi immediately over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
