Seafood

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tablespoons (15g) chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons (30g) chopped fresh basil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste

By Hannah Voss · June 18, 2026 · Seafood

Prep10 min

Cook12 min

Total22 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I had garlic butter shrimp scampi at a restaurant - the combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice was love at first bite. As a home cook, I've been perfecting my own version of this dish, and I'm excited to share it with you. My garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe is a staple in our house, and I think it will become one in yours too.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that's both elegant and flavorful. I've taken the traditional recipe and given it a low-carb keto twist, using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, as it can be prepared and cooked in under 30 minutes. It's also a great option for special occasions, as it's sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

As a home cook, I believe that the key to a great recipe is using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare each component with care. In this recipe, we'll be using fresh shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to create a dish that's both flavorful and nutritious.

So, let's get started and make this delicious garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe together! Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared and cooked in under 30 minutes.
It's a low-carb keto recipe that's perfect for those following a ketogenic diet.
The dish is flavorful and nutritious, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.
It's a versatile recipe that can be served with a variety of sides, such as zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables.
The recipe is budget-friendly and uses ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
It's a great option for special occasions, as it's sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe is using high-quality ingredients and cooking them with care. In this recipe, we'll be using fresh shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to create a dish that's both flavorful and nutritious.

One of the most important things to consider when making this recipe is the type of shrimp you use. I recommend using wild-caught shrimp, as they have a more robust flavor and texture than farmed shrimp. You'll also want to make sure that your shrimp are fresh and of high quality, as this will make a big difference in the final dish.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the garlic butter. I recommend using a high-quality butter that's rich in flavor, such as European-style or cultured butter. You'll also want to make sure that you're using fresh garlic, as this will give your dish a more vibrant flavor.

Finally, the cooking technique is also important in this recipe. I recommend cooking the shrimp over medium-high heat, as this will give them a nice sear on the outside while keeping them tender on the inside. You'll also want to make sure that you're not overcooking the shrimp, as this will make them tough and rubbery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients. I recommend using fresh and high-quality ingredients, as this will make a big difference in the final dish. In this recipe, we'll be using wild-caught shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to create a dish that's both flavorful and nutritious.

When shopping for the ingredients, I recommend looking for wild-caught shrimp that are fresh and of high quality. You'll also want to make sure that you're using a high-quality butter that's rich in flavor, such as European-style or cultured butter. Fresh garlic and lemon juice are also essential in this recipe, so make sure that you're using the freshest ingredients possible.

1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedI recommend using wild-caught shrimp for this recipe, as they have a more robust flavor and texture than farmed shrimp. Make sure that your shrimp are fresh and of high quality, as this will make a big difference in the final dish.
4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softenedI recommend using a high-quality butter that's rich in flavor, such as European-style or cultured butter. This will give your dish a more vibrant flavor and a richer texture.
2 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential in this recipe, so make sure that you're using the freshest garlic possible. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt as a substitute, but fresh garlic will give your dish a more vibrant flavor.
1/2 teaspoon saltI recommend using a high-quality salt that's rich in flavor, such as kosher salt or sea salt. This will give your dish a more nuanced flavor and a better texture.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperFreshly ground black pepper is essential in this recipe, so make sure that you're using a high-quality pepper mill to grind your pepper. This will give your dish a more vibrant flavor and a better texture.
2 tablespoons (30g) freshly squeezed lemon juiceFresh lemon juice is essential in this recipe, so make sure that you're using the freshest lemons possible. You can also use bottled lemon juice as a substitute, but fresh lemon juice will give your dish a more vibrant flavor.
2 tablespoons (15g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish. You can also use other herbs, such as basil or dill, as a substitute.
1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheeseI recommend using a high-quality Parmesan cheese that's rich in flavor, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano. This will give your dish a more nuanced flavor and a better texture.
2 tablespoons (30g) chopped fresh basilFresh basil is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish. You can also use other herbs, such as parsley or dill, as a substitute.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakesRed pepper flakes are a great addition to this recipe, as they add a spicy and smoky flavor to the dish. You can also use other spices, such as cayenne pepper or paprika, as a substitute.
Salt and pepper to tasteI recommend using a high-quality salt and pepper that's rich in flavor, such as kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will give your dish a more nuanced flavor and a better texture.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or sauté panSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaLemon juicer or citrus squeezer

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

1
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2
In a large heavy skillet or sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3
Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they're pink and cooked through.
5
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
6
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
7
Once the butter has melted, add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
8
Add the parsley, basil, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir to combine.
9
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them to coat with the garlic butter sauce.
10
Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are fully coated with the sauce.
11
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the red pepper flakes.
12
Serve the shrimp immediately, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Expert Tips

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as wild-caught shrimp and fresh garlic, to get the best flavor out of this recipe.
Don't overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Use a high-quality butter that's rich in flavor, such as European-style or cultured butter, to give your dish a more vibrant flavor.
Add the garlic to the skillet before adding the shrimp, as this will help to infuse the oil with flavor.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find the combination that you like best.
Serve the shrimp with a side of zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables for a low-carb and nutritious meal.
Use a lemon juicer or citrus squeezer to get the most juice out of your lemons.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dish for an extra kick of heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them tough and rubbery.
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as wild-caught shrimp and fresh garlic, which can result in a less flavorful dish.
Not adding the garlic to the skillet before adding the shrimp, which can result in a less flavorful oil.
Not using a high-quality butter that's rich in flavor, such as European-style or cultured butter, which can result in a less flavorful dish.
Not serving the shrimp immediately, which can result in a less flavorful and less textured dish.
Not experimenting with different herbs and spices to find the combination that you like best.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the skillet with the garlic for added flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique flavor.
Add some diced ham or bacon to the skillet for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a unique flavor.
Add some lemon zest to the dish for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Serve the shrimp with a side of cauliflower rice or roasted broccoli for a low-carb and nutritious meal.
Use a different type of protein, such as chicken or scallops, for a unique twist on the recipe.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

This garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe is perfect for serving with a variety of sides, such as zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of cauliflower rice or roasted broccoli for a low-carb and nutritious meal.

Some other options for serving this recipe include serving it with a side of garlic bread or a green salad. You can also serve it as a main course, accompanied by a side of roasted potatoes or grilled asparagus.

Serve with a side of zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables for a low-carb and nutritious meal.Serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a more indulgent meal.Serve as a main course, accompanied by a side of roasted potatoes or grilled asparagus.Serve as an appetizer or snack, accompanied by a side of cocktail sauce or lemon wedges.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, simply place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate.

To reheat, simply place the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through. You can also reheat the shrimp in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.

This recipe can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, simply place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

It's also important to note that this recipe is best served fresh, as the flavors and textures are at their best when the dish is freshly prepared. However, if you need to store or freeze the recipe, it can still be enjoyed at a later time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using wild-caught shrimp for this recipe, as they have a more robust flavor and texture than farmed shrimp. You can also use other types of shrimp, such as whiteleg shrimp or Gulf shrimp, but wild-caught shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming tough and rubbery?

To prevent the shrimp from becoming tough and rubbery, make sure to not overcook them. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they're pink and cooked through. You can also add a little bit of acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to the skillet to help keep the shrimp tender.

What type of butter should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using a high-quality butter that's rich in flavor, such as European-style or cultured butter. This will give your dish a more vibrant flavor and a better texture.

Can I use other types of protein in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of protein in this recipe, such as chicken or scallops. Simply substitute the protein of your choice for the shrimp and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I store and reheat this recipe?

This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the cooked shrimp in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through. You can also reheat the shrimp in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe for up to 2 months. To freeze, simply place the cooked shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

What are some variations I can make to this recipe?

There are many variations you can make to this recipe, such as adding different herbs or spices, using different types of cheese, or serving the shrimp with a side of garlic bread or a green salad. You can also use different types of protein, such as chicken or scallops, for a unique twist on the recipe.

Is this recipe low-carb and keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly. The shrimp are a great source of protein, and the garlic butter sauce is made with healthy fats and minimal carbs. You can also serve the shrimp with a side of zucchini noodles or roasted vegetables for a low-carb and nutritious meal.

The Full Recipe

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