Shrimp Scampi is a beloved classic, and for good reason. The combination of juicy shrimp, garlic, and buttery pasta creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.

But when you introduce browned butter into the mix, this timeless recipe gets an irresistible nutty, rich depth. Browned Butter Shrimp Scampi elevates the dish to gourmet status while remaining simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

This dish celebrates the sweet, briny flavor of shrimp, balanced by the robust richness of browned butter and the zingy brightness of lemon juice.

Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting bowl of pasta, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Browned Butter Shrimp Scampi?

Elevated Flavor: The nutty richness of browned butter takes the classic scampi sauce to the next level.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Impressive Presentation: With minimal effort, you can create a meal that looks and tastes restaurant-quality.

Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of shrimp, garlic, and buttery pasta is universally loved.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
4 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Brown the Butter
In the same skillet, add the butter over medium heat. Let it melt, stirring occasionally, until it begins to foam and develop a golden-brown color. You’ll notice a nutty aroma as it browns. Be careful not to burn it.

Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter is browned, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the browned butter sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and zest. Toss everything together to coat evenly.

Finish the Dish
Sprinkle red pepper flakes (if using) and chopped parsley over the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice, if needed.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate the pasta and shrimp, drizzling any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad.

Variations

Low-Carb Option: Substitute zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for pasta.

Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.

Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving for added richness.

Spicier Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth works well and still provides great flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time. When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti and linguine are classic choices, but fettuccine or angel hair pasta would also work beautifully.

How to Serve

Serve Browned Butter Shrimp Scampi hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a wine pairing, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish perfectly.

This Browned Butter Shrimp Scampi is a delightful fusion of simplicity and sophistication. Its rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a standout dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every bite!