Name: Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi: Quick, Zesty Delight in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Linguine or Spaghetti (Can substitute with gluten-free pasta.); 1 lb Large Shrimp (Cooking quickly to tender perfection.); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Essential for a velvety texture.); 3 tbsp Olive Oil (Can be substituted with vegetable oil.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced for best flavor.); 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Adjust to preference for spiciness.); 1 Lemon (Zested and juiced for freshness.); 1/2 cup Chicken Broth (Can use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.); Salt and Pepper (To taste for seasoning.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped, can use dried parsley in a pinch.)

Walking into my kitchen, I’m met with that inviting aroma of garlic dancing playfully in the air, instantly reminding me of my favorite comfort dishes. Today, I’m excited to share Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi—a delightful seafood dish that elevates simple ingredients into something truly special. This recipe is a time-saver, allowing you to whip up a gourmet meal in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings when you crave a taste of the sea. Beyond being quick, it’s also incredibly versatile; whether you’re hunting for a gluten-free option or looking to sneak in a few extra veggies, this dish has got you covered. Ready to dive into a plate of luscious shrimp bathed in buttery, lemony goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is This Shrimp Scampi Irresistible?

Simplicity of cooking really shines with this recipe—it requires minimal prep and can be on your table in just 30 minutes. Versatility is key, making it easy to substitute ingredients or add veggies to cater to any dietary needs or preferences. Flavor-packed with the perfect balance of garlic, lemon, and just a hint of heat, it’s a taste sensation that’s sure to impress. Crowd-pleaser status means it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests—everyone will be coming back for seconds! For those looking for more delicious seafood recipes, don’t miss my take on Chicken Scampi Garlic for another easy favorite.

Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Linguine or Spaghetti (8 oz) – This base absorbs the luscious sauce beautifully; switch to gluten-free pasta if needed.

For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp (1 lb) – The star of the dish, cooking quickly to tender perfection.

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Adds that rich, creamy element; essential for a velvety texture.
• Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Provides a flavorful foundation; can be substituted with vegetable oil for a lighter alternative.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Delivers an aromatic flavor; keep it fresh for the best taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1 tsp) – Adds a hint of warmth; adjust to your preference for spiciness.
• Lemon (1, zested and juiced) – Brightens the dish with acidity and freshness.
• Chicken Broth (1/2 cup) – Forms a savory base for the sauce; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative.
• Salt and Pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the shrimp flavor.

For the Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped) – Introduces a fresh, vibrant touch; dried parsley works in a pinch.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re well on your way to enjoying a delightful plate of Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi. Get ready to savor that buttery, lemon-kissed goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the linguine or spaghetti, cooking until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the noodles and set them aside in a colander while you prepare the shrimp scampi.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted and begins to bubble, add the shrimp in a single layer, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the shrimp, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sauté 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients
Next, stir in ½ cup of chicken broth, the juice from the zested lemon, and the zest itself. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken while developing rich flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Once your sauce is ready, add the drained pasta and the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Toss gently to combine everything, and slowly incorporate the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired sauce consistency, ensuring that each strand of pasta is well coated in the scampi sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Stir in ¼ cup of freshly chopped parsley, adjusting the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh finish. Enjoy this delightful dish warm!

Expert Tips for Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp, as it can become rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque for that tender texture.
Season Generously: Proper seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors. Don’t be shy—feel free to adjust to your taste!
Pasta Water Magic: Reserve and use the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency; it helps the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully and adds flavor.
High Heat is Key: Maintain medium-high heat while cooking the shrimp for a good sear. This ensures even cooking and locks in flavor—the secret to a restaurant-quality dish.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to customize your Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi with fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These variations add a lovely twist and elevate the dish.

How to Store and Freeze Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi

Fridge: Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze shrimp scampi in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop until heated through, adding a touch of liquid if needed.
Serving Freshness: This dish is best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture. If making ahead, prepare the components separately to keep shrimp and pasta fresh until serving.
Reheating Tips: When reheating, avoid high heat, which can overcook the shrimp. Stir gently and keep an eye on the dish to preserve its delicious buttery sauce.

What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi?

Indulge in a full meal experience that balances vibrant flavors and delightful textures alongside your succulent shrimp dish.

Garlic Bread: Provides a crunchy, buttery element perfect for dipping in that luscious scampi sauce.
The warmth and garlic aroma of freshly baked bread will elevate your dining experience.
Light Salad: A refreshing arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish beautifully.
This bright side packs a zesty punch, leaving your palate refreshed and ready for more.
Steamed Asparagus: Adds a pop of green and a tender crunch, enhancing the nutrient profile of your meal.
With a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil, these greens accompany your shrimp with elegance.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these roasted veggies complement the scampi’s flavors while adding a delightful burst.
Toss with fresh basil for an Italian flair that harmonizes beautifully with the lemon and garlic notes.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc echoes the citrusy notes of the dish and completes the sensory experience.
The crispness of the wine brings out the brightness in the shrimp scampi, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve with spiralized zucchini for a refreshing twist on tradition.
This low-carb alternative offers a lovely crunch while soaking up all that rich, buttery sauce.

Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists, making this dish uniquely yours while keeping that tantalizing flavor.

Gluten-Free: Substitute linguine with gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly delight without sacrificing taste.
Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes to pack in extra nutrition while adding lovely color and flavor.
Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh basil or thyme for a fragrant twist that enhances the dish’s aroma and taste.
Wine Upgrade: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a depth of flavor that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
Creamy Twist: Mix in a little heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Heat Level: Increase red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño for those who love a spicy kick in their meals.
Broth Choice: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option; it still delivers delicious flavor.
Zoodle Alternative: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb, refreshing alternative that’s perfect in warm weather.

These variations invite creativity while maintaining the essence of the original. And don’t forget to check out my recipe for Chicken Scampi Garlic for another enticing seafood option that you can customize just as flexibly!

Make Ahead Options

Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi is an excellent candidate for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet dish on busy weeknights with minimal fuss! You can prep the shrimp and sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. To do this, sauté the shrimp until just cooked, then cool and combine them with the sauce ingredients, omitting the pasta for even better flavor preservation. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh, then simply combine it with the shrimp mixture in a pan to heat through, adding reserved pasta water if necessary for a silky sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy your Shrimp Scampi just as delicious as when freshly made!

Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect shrimp?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp for your scampi, look for large shrimp that are fresh and firm. Choose shrimp that are translucent and have a slight sheen—avoid any that show dark spots or have a strong fishy odor. If buying frozen shrimp, opt for those that are “flash-frozen” right after being caught for better quality.

How should I store leftover shrimp scampi?
Leftover shrimp scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain its best quality, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. If properly stored, you’ll still enjoy that buttery garlic goodness!

Can I freeze shrimp scampi?
Yes! To freeze your shrimp scampi, allow it to cool completely first. Transfer it to a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to warm it through without overcooking the shrimp.

What if my shrimp becomes rubbery while cooking?
Very good question! Rubberiness often occurs when shrimp are overcooked. To avoid this, cook them for just 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. If they do turn out tough, try reducing the cooking time next time or ensuring your skillet isn’t too hot when you add the shrimp.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi can be easily adapted for various dietary restrictions. For gluten-free options, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of linguine or spaghetti. Additionally, you can replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. Always check for allergies, especially with seafood or any specific ingredients.

Can I use different herbs or vegetables in the recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like basil, dill, or thyme to customize the flavor of your shrimp scampi. You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a delightful twist!