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Perfect Champagne Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce Easy

champagne shrimp scampi - featured image

A quick and indulgent shrimp scampi recipe featuring a creamy garlic butter sauce enhanced with a splash of dry champagne for a subtle, sophisticated brightness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen; wild-caught if possible)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1/3 cup dry champagne or sparkling wine (brut style preferred)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter foams, add shrimp in a single layer and cook about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding browning the garlic.
  4. Pour in the champagne and scrape the pan bottom to lift browned bits. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by half and slightly syrupy.
  5. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Simmer gently for 3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Return shrimp to the pan and toss gently to coat in sauce. Warm through for 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt or lemon juice as needed.
  7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Notes

Do not overcook shrimp to avoid rubbery texture. Use room temperature butter and cream for smooth sauce. Use dry brut champagne for best flavor. If sauce thickens too much, loosen with pasta water or broth. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with coconut milk. Leftovers keep up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp scampi, champagne shrimp, creamy garlic butter sauce, quick shrimp recipe, easy dinner, seafood, weeknight meal