Perfect Italian-American Shrimp Scampi Recipe – Garlicky, Buttery & Ready in Minutes
Make the best shrimp scampi at home with this Italian-American classic! Succulent shrimp in a garlic butter sauce with lemon, herbs, and pasta – easy and elegant in just 20 minutes.
Italian-American Shrimp Scampi – A Quick & Elegant Dinner
Looking for a restaurant-quality dinner that’s quick, light, and bursting with flavor? This Italian-American Shrimp Scampi recipe is the answer! With juicy shrimp, a garlicky lemon-butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté the shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the sauce:
In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute. Add lemon juice and white wine, stirring and simmering for 2–3 minutes.
4. Combine and serve:
Return shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked pasta, toss everything together, and add pasta water if needed for consistency. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Why This Shrimp Scampi Stands Out:
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Rich, buttery garlic-lemon flavor
- Pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread
- High in protein and low in fuss
- Ideal for date nights or quick family dinners
Variations:
- Low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice
- No wine? Substitute with chicken broth
- Add-ins: Try sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for a twist
- Extra creamy: Add a splash of cream at the end
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Just thaw, rinse, and pat dry before cooking.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Linguine or angel hair pasta are traditional, but any will do.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Final Thoughts
This perfect Italian-American shrimp scampi is fast, flavorful, and foolproof. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or feeding the family, this recipe delivers all the bold flavors of Italy—with a modern American touch.
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