Dinner

Creamy Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Byrami Hayes March 10, 2026March 10, 2026

Introduction

Creamy Shrimp Scampi is a luscious twist on the classic seafood pasta, combining tender shrimp with a rich, garlicky cream sauce. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, etc.)
2 tbsp grapeseed oil
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Bayou City Lemon Pepper
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
Pinch of salt
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic
1 shallot (minced)
1/2 cup white wine (or chicken stock)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup Parmesan (grated)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with onion powder, garlic powder, lemon pepper, Old Bay, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat grapeseed oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add butter, shallot, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is well combined.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp back to the skillet with a little pasta water, tossing to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 8: Transfer the creamy shrimp scampi to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Substitute the grapeseed oil with olive oil for a more traditional flavor.
If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream or replace it with half-and-half.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

A white dish filled with a layer of cooked spaghetti noodles in a light sauce. On top of the noodles, there are several cooked shrimp with a golden-brown color and a slightly crispy texture. Thin lemon slices are placed on and around the shrimp, adding bright yellow circles to the dish. The entire dish is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and small bits of grated cheese. Around the dish, on the white marbled surface, are some extra lemon slices and scattered green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and cooking to prevent excess moisture.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, chicken stock or vegetable broth works well as a substitute and still adds great flavor to the sauce.

rami Hayes