Easy One-pan Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's something absolutely magical about the smell of garlicky butter sizzling away in a pan, especially when it promises a meal as delicious as this Easy One-Pan Shrimp Scampi. In just one pan and under 30 minutes, you'll have tender shrimp swimming in a luscious, lemony sauce that's perfect for spooning over pasta or soaking up with crusty bread.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with shrimp scampi when I tried recreating a restaurant version at home. After a few tweaks, I landed on this easy, fuss-free method that my family now asks for almost weekly. It's light yet satisfying, quick but impressive — truly a recipe that checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Let's get into what makes this dish so special.

Why You'll Love This Easy One-Pan Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to meet your new favorite dinner hero. This Easy One-Pan Shrimp Scampi brings elegance to your table without demanding hours of prep or cleanup.

First, the simplicity is unbeatable. Using just one pan means fewer dishes, and the entire process from start to finish takes around 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something quick and satisfying.

The flavor is out of this world. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp coated in a buttery garlic sauce, brightened with a pop of lemon and a hint of spice. Every bite feels luxurious without being heavy.

It's incredibly budget-friendly. Shrimp can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you catch a sale or buy frozen. Plus, the rest of the ingredients — butter, garlic, lemon, parsley — are pantry staples.

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Toss the shrimp over pasta, serve them with a side of steamed veggies, or pile them onto toasted bread for a hearty appetizer. The possibilities are endless!

Once you try it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Easy One-Pan Shrimp Scampi lies in the way a handful of simple ingredients come together to create something spectacular. Each element plays a vital role in layering flavor and texture.

Shrimp are, of course, the star. I recommend using large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Whether you choose fresh or frozen (thawed), the key is making sure they are patted dry before cooking to get a good sear.

Butter creates the luxurious base of the sauce. I use unsalted butter so I can control the seasoning, but salted butter works too. Don't skimp — it's essential for that rich, silky finish.

Garlic is the heart of the flavor. Freshly minced garlic gives the best aroma and taste. If you're a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Lemon adds a bright, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the butter. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a must here — bottled just doesn't deliver the same punch.

A splash of white wine brings everything together, adding depth and a hint of acidity. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth makes a great substitute without sacrificing flavor.

You'll just need a large skillet — preferably stainless steel or cast iron — to cook everything evenly and develop a little bit of golden goodness at the bottom for extra flavor.

How To Make This Easy One-Pan Shrimp Scampi

Making this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Let me walk you through the simple steps.

Start by heating a generous amount of butter in your large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling gently, add your minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant — about 30 seconds — being careful not to brown it, which can make it taste bitter.

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes so they get a nice sear, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until they're pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the hot skillet to deglaze, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavor.

Stir in more butter, lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Once the sauce is glossy and bubbling, return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat them well in the buttery goodness.

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh, herbal note. Serve immediately, spooning some of that glorious sauce over each portion.

From start to finish, this beauty takes no more than 20-25 minutes — and most of that is hands-off. Expect a kitchen filled with mouthwatering smells and some very eager dinner guests!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them properly to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Transfer the shrimp and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Shrimp can become rubbery if stored too long, so it's best enjoyed soon after cooking.

You can also freeze the shrimp scampi for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it adapts to what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Swap out the shrimp for scallops or chunks of firm white fish like cod if you're craving something different. They cook quickly and absorb the buttery sauce beautifully.

If you want a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter. The flavor will be lighter but still incredibly delicious with all that garlic and lemon.

Prefer a little more green on your plate? Toss in a handful of spinach or arugula just before serving. The greens will wilt into the warm sauce, adding color and nutrients.

For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.

Don't be afraid to play around with herbs too. Basil, chives, or even a sprinkle of dill can add a unique twist to the classic flavor profile.

Experiment, have fun, and make this Easy One-Pan Shrimp Scampi truly your own. Once you see how simple and delicious it is, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

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