This Shrimp Scampi is a showstopper—succulent shrimp bathed in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a hint of zesty lemon. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home. The tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and rich sauce create a harmony of textures that’s simply irresistible.
Every bite delivers a burst of flavor, from the savory garlic to the bright citrus notes, balanced by a touch of Parmesan. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a quick family meal, this recipe promises to impress with its bold, comforting flavors and satisfying richness.
Ingredients for The Best Shrimp Scampi
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic (fresh or jarred)
- ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
- ¼ cup butter, cubed (unsalted preferred)
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, size 21-25 recommended)
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- ½ teaspoon pepper (freshly ground preferred)
- ¼ teaspoon oregano (dried or fresh)
- 10 ounces whole wheat angel hair pasta (substitute with regular angel hair or linguine if preferred)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated for better texture)
- ¼ cup dry bread crumbs (Italian-seasoned or plain)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to broil. Set the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
- Cook the garlic: In an ovenproof skillet over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic in olive oil and butter until it starts to brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the shrimp: Stir in the shrimp, lemon juice, pepper, and oregano. Cook and stir for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Cook the pasta: While the shrimp cooks, prepare the angel hair pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the dish: Spread the cooked shrimp evenly in the skillet. Sprinkle the top with grated parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.
- Broil: Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with minced parsley, and serve immediately over the cooked pasta.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Scampi
Serve your shrimp scampi over a bed of whole wheat angel hair pasta for a classic presentation, or try it with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Add a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad to round out the meal. For a touch of elegance, pair it with a glass of sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to complement the lemony flavors.
Quick Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp and pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. For best results, reheat the breadcrumb topping separately under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Recipe Variations to Spice Things Up
Swap out the shrimp for scallops or chicken for a different protein option. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or stir in a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. For a creamier version, mix in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese during the final minutes of cooking.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
Use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to cut down on prep time. If you’re in a rush, skip the broiling step and simply sprinkle the Parmesan and breadcrumbs over the shrimp while it’s still on the stovetop. For an even quicker meal, substitute the pasta with pre-cooked rice or quinoa.
Essential Equipment for Shrimp Scampi Success
An ovenproof skillet is key for this recipe, as it allows you to seamlessly transition from stovetop to broiler. A microplane grater is perfect for zesting fresh lemon or grating Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget a pasta pot with a built-in strainer for easy draining, and a sharp chef’s knife for mincing garlic and parsley.
The Best Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter, cubed
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 10 ounces whole wheat angel hair pasta
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to broil.
- In an ovenproof skillet over medium heat, saute garlic in olive oil and butter until garlic starts to brown.
- Stir in the shrimp, lemon juice, pepper, and oregano. Cook and stir for 2-3 minutes or until all the shrimp turns pink.
- While shrimp cooks, prepare pasta according to directions on package.
- Spread out the shrimp evenly on the bottom of the pan.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.
- Broil 6 inches from the heat for 2-3 minutes or until topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with parsley and serve over cooked pasta.