Creamy shrimp scampi is a rich and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a luscious garlic butter sauce infused with cream. Unlike traditional shrimp scampi, which relies solely on butter and garlic, this version adds heavy cream for a velvety texture that perfectly coats the shrimp and pasta. The dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and parmesan cheese, creamy shrimp scampi delivers a restaurant quality meal in under 30 minutes. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this indulgent dish is sure to impress seafood lovers.

Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Print Recipe

Author: The Prestons
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup chicken or seafood broth
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Pasta:

8 oz linguine or fettuccine
Salt for boiling water

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until reduced slightly.
Add heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Stir well.
Mix in Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, stirring continuously.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix well with the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until coated.
Adjust the consistency by adding reserved pasta water if needed.
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve immediately.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra red pepper flakes.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Ingredients For Creamy Shrimp Scampi Displayed On A Kitchen Counter.

To create a perfectly creamy shrimp scampi, selecting high quality ingredients is essential. Each component plays a role in building the dish’s signature rich and savory flavor.

Essential Ingredients for the Dish

Shrimp – Use fresh or frozen shrimp, preferably large or jumbo, as they hold up well in the sauce.
Butter – Unsalted butter creates a rich and flavorful foundation for the sauce.
Olive Oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds depth to the flavor.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with its signature aroma and taste.
Heavy Cream – The key to achieving a creamy texture, balancing the acidity of the lemon.
Chicken or Seafood Broth – Enhances the sauce’s flavor while keeping it from being too thick.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, umami depth to the dish.
White Wine (Optional) – A dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavor profile.
Lemon Juice – Provides a bright, tangy contrast to the richness of the cream.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish properly.
Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – Adds a subtle heat for extra depth.
Parsley – Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to balance the richness.

Choosing the Best Shrimp for the Recipe

The choice of shrimp significantly impacts the final dish. Large or jumbo shrimp work best because they remain juicy and flavorful when cooked. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.

Selecting the Right Pasta for Shrimp Scampi

Traditional shrimp scampi is often served with long pasta like linguine or spaghetti, which allows the sauce to cling beautifully. However, fettuccine or angel hair pasta can also be used, depending on preference. For a low carb option, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash are excellent alternatives.

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

For an even more luxurious dish, consider adding:

Mushrooms – Adds an earthy depth to the sauce.
Sun Dried Tomatoes – Provides a sweet and tangy contrast.
Spinach – A great way to add a nutritional boost.
Crushed Nuts (Like Pine Nuts or Almonds) – Introduces a slight crunch and nutty flavor.

Step by Step Instructions to Make Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Cooking The Shrimp In Garlic Butter Sauce

Making creamy shrimp scampi is a simple process that requires just a few steps. By following this guide, you will achieve a perfectly cooked shrimp dish with a rich, flavorful sauce that coats every bite.

Preparing the Shrimp for Cooking

Before cooking, ensure your shrimp is properly cleaned and prepped:

Peel and devein the shrimp if they are not pre cleaned. Leaving the tails on is optional for presentation.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear properly.
Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.

Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
Add your preferred pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Before draining the pasta, set aside about ½ cup of the cooking water to help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Making the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

Melt butter and heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
If using, pour in white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to cook off the alcohol and enhance the sauce’s depth.
Stir in chicken or seafood broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Lower the heat and add heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
Mix in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth texture.

Cooking the Shrimp and Combining the Ingredients

Place the seasoned shrimp in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery when overdone.
Stir in lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh parsley for added brightness and a hint of spice.
Toss in the drained pasta, ensuring it is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Use the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Final Touches and Serving

Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or cheese.
Garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Achieving the perfect creamy shrimp scampi requires attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out flavorful, rich, and well balanced.

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture

Use high quality heavy cream – Lower fat alternatives may result in a thinner sauce that doesn’t coat the pasta well.
Avoid overheating the cream – Keep the heat on low to medium when adding cream to prevent curdling.
Melt the Parmesan cheese slowly – Stir it in gradually to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth, velvety sauce.
Use pasta water to adjust consistency – Adding a little reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

Avoiding Overcooked Shrimp

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink – Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. They should appear opaque and feel slightly firm when touched.
Use medium heat – High heat can cause shrimp to cook too quickly, making it difficult to control doneness.
Remove shrimp from heat as soon as they are done – If necessary, take them out and return them to the sauce just before serving to prevent overcooking.

Enhancing the Flavor with Herbs and Spices

Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more intense aroma and taste.
Incorporate fresh parsley for a bright, herby contrast to the rich sauce.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled juice for a fresher and more vibrant flavor.

Alternative Ingredients for a Healthier Version

If you want to enjoy creamy shrimp scampi with fewer calories or dietary adjustments, try these substitutions:

Replace heavy cream with half and half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce.
Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to add fiber and reduce refined carbs.
Opt for a low fat cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a dairy free version.
Increase the vegetables – Adding spinach, zucchini noodles, or mushrooms can boost the dish’s nutritional value.

Variations of Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi is a versatile dish that can be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a spicier version, a lighter alternative, or a completely different twist, these variations will help you customize the dish to your liking.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

For those who love a bright and citrusy flavor, increasing the amount of lemon enhances the dish’s freshness.

Use extra lemon juice and zest to intensify the citrusy taste.
Reduce the amount of cream for a lighter, more traditional scampi flavor.
Add capers for a slightly tangy contrast that pairs well with seafood.

Spicy Creamy Shrimp Scampi

If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding spice can elevate the dish’s complexity.

Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped fresh chili peppers.
Use a dash of Cajun seasoning or paprika for a smoky depth.
Serve with spicy garlic bread to complement the heat.

Low Carb and Keto Friendly Shrimp Scampi

To make this dish suitable for a keto or low carb diet, replace traditional pasta with alternatives.

Use zucchini noodles (zoodles), spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
Substitute heavy cream with cream cheese for a thicker, keto friendly sauce.
Replace white wine with chicken broth to minimize carbs.

Dairy Free and Vegan Alternatives

For those who are lactose intolerant or following a plant based diet, these adjustments will help create a dairy free or vegan version of shrimp scampi.

Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Substitute vegan butter and nutritional yeast for a rich, cheesy taste.
Replace shrimp with mushrooms, tofu, or hearts of palm for a plant based protein option.
Serve over gluten free pasta, rice, or spiralized vegetables for a fully vegan meal.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Creamy Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Bread – The Perfect Side For Shrimp Scampi

A well paired side dish can enhance the flavors of creamy shrimp scampi and turn it into a complete meal. From bread to vegetables and wine, these accompaniments will make your dining experience even better.

Garlic Bread and Crusty Baguette

A slice of buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich and creamy sauce.
A crusty baguette or Italian bread provides a satisfying texture contrast.
For a twist, try cheesy garlic bread with a sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella.

Roasted Vegetables and Salads

Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add a fresh and slightly smoky flavor.
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Caesar salad with crisp romaine and Parmesan pairs beautifully with creamy shrimp scampi.

Wine Pairings for Shrimp Scampi

Choosing the right wine can enhance the dish’s flavors and create a sophisticated dining experience.

Chardonnay – A buttery and oaky Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
Sauvignon Blanc – Its bright acidity complements the richness of the dish.
Pinot Grigio – A light and refreshing option that pairs well with seafood.
Sparkling wine – For a special occasion, a glass of Prosecco or Champagne adds elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about making and perfecting creamy shrimp scampi. Here are responses to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used for creamy shrimp scampi. Just make sure to:

Thaw the shrimp completely by placing them in the refrigerator for a few hours or running them under cold water.
Pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce.
Avoid pre cooked shrimp, as they can become rubbery when reheated.

How Can I Make the Dish Less Heavy?

If you want a lighter version of creamy shrimp scampi:

Use half and half instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content.
Increase the amount of broth and decrease the cream for a thinner, less rich sauce.
Add more lemon juice and garlic to brighten the dish without extra fat.

What Type of Pasta Works Best for Shrimp Scampi?

Traditional choices include:

Linguine – A classic option that holds the creamy sauce well.
Fettuccine – Slightly thicker, making it ideal for rich sauces.
Angel hair pasta – A delicate choice that cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
For low carb options, try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Avoid overheating in the microwave, as shrimp can turn rubbery.

Can I Add More Seafood to This Dish?

Absolutely! You can enhance the dish by adding:

Scallops – Sear them separately and mix them in at the end.
Lobster or crab meat – Adds an elegant touch.
Clams or mussels – Cook them in the sauce for a seafood medley.

How Do I Thicken or Thin the Sauce?

To thicken the sauce, add more Parmesan cheese or let it simmer longer to reduce.
To thin the sauce, stir in a little reserved pasta water or broth.
Avoid using flour or cornstarch, as they can alter the texture.

If you love the rich, garlicky goodness of this Creamy Shrimp Scampi, you’ll definitely want to try Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta for a lighter, classic take on this dish. Looking for the perfect side? Check out What Pairs Well with Shrimp Pasta for delicious pairing ideas. And if you’re in the mood for something different but still seafood inspired, our Seafood Lasagna Recipe is a must try.

Conclusion

Creamy shrimp scampi is a rich, flavorful, and versatile dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. The combination of tender shrimp, garlic butter sauce, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream creates a luxurious dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, vegetables, or crusty bread.

By following the step by step instructions, using high quality ingredients, and incorporating expert tips, you can achieve a restaurant quality shrimp scampi right at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, this dish is sure to impress your family and guests.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to head to the kitchen and enjoy a delicious homemade creamy shrimp scampi. Happy cooking.

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Creamy Shrimp Scampi​