Growing up in an Italian-American household, Sundays were all about family, food, and the comforting aroma of garlic sizzling in butter. One of my earliest kitchen memories is watching my Nonna prepare her famous shrimp scampi. Her secret? A splash of white wine to elevate the flavors. But as I began cooking for friends who preferred non-alcoholic meals or families with children, I started experimenting with alternatives. The result? A shrimp scampi recipe without wine that’s just as rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

If you’ve ever skipped making shrimp scampi because you didn’t have wine on hand or simply prefer alcohol-free cooking, this recipe is your answer. With the perfect blend of garlic, lemon, and broth, this dish proves you don’t need wine to achieve that restaurant-quality flavor.

Why Make Shrimp Scampi Without Wine?

1. Suitable for All Audiences

Many families, especially those with children or members who avoid alcohol for personal or dietary reasons, appreciate recipes that skip alcoholic ingredients altogether. This shrimp scampi recipe without wine is designed with inclusivity in mind, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or special occasions without compromising on taste.

2. Easy Ingredient Access

Let’s face it—sometimes you just don’t have a bottle of white wine sitting in your pantry. Chicken or vegetable broth offers an easy, flavorful alternative that you likely already have on hand. Paired with fresh lemon juice, it delivers brightness and depth without the need for alcohol.

3. Flavor Without Compromise

Wine traditionally adds acidity and complexity, but fresh lemon juice mimics this beautifully. The combination of citrus, garlic, and butter creates a rich, savory sauce that clings perfectly to your shrimp and pasta, leaving no one missing the wine.

What Is Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp scampi is a beloved Italian-American dish, often featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in butter, garlic, and white wine, served over pasta or with crusty bread. Learn more about seafood consumption recommendations. Interestingly, the term “scampi” originally refers to a type of small lobster, known in Italy as langoustines. When Italian immigrants arrived in America, they substituted shrimp for scampi, and the name stuck.

While the classic version includes wine, this recipe stays true to the spirit of shrimp scampi while making it accessible to all. With garlic, butter, lemon juice, and broth as the stars of the sauce, you’ll enjoy all the rich flavors you expect—without the alcohol.

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Without Wine

Fresh ingredients for shrimp scampi recipe without wine including shrimp, lemon, garlic, butter, and pasta

Let’s talk about what you’ll need to bring this dish to life. Here’s the complete ingredient list for serves 4 people:

12 oz (340g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz (225g) linguine or your favorite pasta
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 large lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but highly recommended)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Lemon wedges, for garnish

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, choose fresh shrimp and use high-quality butter. Freshly squeezed lemon juice also makes a noticeable difference compared to bottled varieties.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

Cooking at home is all about flexibility. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to tweak the recipe to suit your taste, here are some easy swaps and additions that work beautifully with this shrimp scampi recipe without wine.

Gluten-Free Pasta Options

If you or someone you’re cooking for is gluten-sensitive, there are plenty of excellent gluten-free pasta choices available. Brown rice pasta, chickpea pasta, or gluten-free spaghetti all hold up well to the rich sauce. Just be sure to cook them according to the package instructions, as cooking times may vary.

Dairy-Free or Vegan Butter Alternatives

To make this recipe dairy-free, opt for plant-based butter or olive oil. While butter offers that signature richness, a good-quality olive oil or vegan butter substitute can deliver excellent results. Look for plant-based butters that are made for sautéing to ensure a silky, flavorful sauce.

Low-Sodium Broth Options

Using low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth gives you more control over the seasoning. This way, you can add salt to taste without worrying about an overly salty dish. You can even make your own broth at home if you’re feeling ambitious.

Extra Vegetables for Added Nutrition

Feel free to toss in some veggies for a more colorful and nutritious meal. Popular additions include:

Baby spinach – Wilts beautifully in the sauce.
Cherry tomatoes – Add a pop of color and a sweet-tart flavor.
Zucchini noodles – A great low-carb pasta alternative.
Asparagus tips – Lightly sautéed with the shrimp for added texture.

Optional Protein Variations

If you’re not in the mood for shrimp, you can easily swap it with:

Chicken breast – Thinly sliced and cooked until golden.
Tofu – For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu cubes sautéed until crispy.
Scallops – For a seafood variation that feels restaurant-worthy.

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Without Wine

Let’s walk through the cooking process step by step. Don’t worry, this recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter.
Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and lemon juice, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
Finish with lemon zest, chopped parsley, and an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta and shrimp, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp scampi is traditionally served over pasta, but there are many creative ways to enjoy this dish without compromising flavor. Here are some serving ideas to inspire your next meal:

Best Pasta Pairings

Linguine or Spaghetti – Classic choices that hold the sauce well.
Angel Hair (Capellini) – For a lighter, more delicate option.
Fettuccine – If you prefer a thicker noodle to soak up the sauce.

Low-Carb Alternatives

Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – For a gluten-free, low-carb version.
Spaghetti Squash – Adds a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
Cauliflower Rice – A grain-free base that pairs well with the sauce.

Side Dishes to Complete the Meal

Garlic Bread or Focaccia – Perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons.
Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans – Adds color and balance to the plate.
Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a light starter.

Wine-Free Beverage Pairings

While this recipe skips the wine in cooking, you can still enjoy a great beverage alongside your meal:

Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime
Iced Herbal Tea
Fresh Lemonade
Citrus-Infused Mocktails

Storage and Reheating Tips

Shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly to maintain flavor and texture.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp tends to become rubbery when frozen and reheated.

How to Reheat Without Overcooking Shrimp

Stovetop Method: Add a splash of broth or water to a skillet and gently reheat the shrimp and pasta over low heat until just warmed through.
Microwave Method: Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed.

Pro Tip: Avoid high heat, as it can make the shrimp tough and rubbery.

How to Make Extra Sauce Without Wine

One of the most common requests I get is “How do I make extra sauce?”—especially when serving guests who love to twirl their pasta in a rich, silky coating. Here’s how you can adjust this recipe for a saucier finish, still without using wine.

Extra Sauce Modification

To make your shrimp scampi extra saucy, simply double the following:

Broth: Increase to 1 cup
Butter: Add an additional 1-2 tablespoons
Lemon Juice: Add 1 extra tablespoon, or to taste
Garlic: Consider adding 1-2 extra cloves if you’re a garlic lover

Let the sauce reduce slightly longer to thicken to your desired consistency. If it feels too thin, you can whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons of water to help it cling better to the pasta.

Creamy Variation

For a creamy scampi, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or coconut cream at the end of cooking. This transforms the sauce into a luscious, silky coating that’s still bright with lemon but slightly more indulgent.

Why This Shrimp Scampi Without Wine Works

You might be wondering, “Can you really skip the wine and still get that classic shrimp scampi flavor?” The answer is absolutely yes, and here’s why:

Balance of Acidity and Fat

Lemon Juice replaces the acidic brightness typically provided by white wine.
Butter and Olive Oil deliver the richness and mouthfeel you expect in scampi.
Broth builds depth, mimicking the complexity of wine without overpowering the dish.

Fresh Aromatics

Garlic adds savory notes.
Lemon Zest and Juice brighten the flavor.
Parsley finishes the dish with a fresh, herbaceous kick.

Restaurant-Quality Results at Home

This shrimp scampi recipe without wine proves that you don’t need special ingredients or alcohol to achieve bold, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or for a dinner party, it looks and tastes like something straight from your favorite Italian-American restaurant—minus the wine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking shrimp scampi might seem simple, but these small missteps can make a big difference. Here’s how to avoid them and ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time.

1. Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly—just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their natural sweetness. Watch for that tell-tale pink color and curled shape; as soon as they’re opaque, remove them from the heat.

2. Using Pre-Cooked or Overly Processed Shrimp

For the best flavor and texture, use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery and don’t absorb the flavors of the sauce as well.

3. Overseasoning or Underseasoning

Taste your sauce before adding salt. Broth can vary in saltiness, especially if you’re using store-bought. Season gradually and adjust to taste toward the end.

4. Skipping the Lemon Zest

It may seem like a small detail, but lemon zest adds bright, aromatic oils that deepen the lemon flavor without adding more acidity. It’s optional, but highly recommended.

5. Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water

Adding a splash of starchy pasta water helps emulsify the sauce, making it cling better to the pasta. Don’t forget to save some before draining.

6. Making the Sauce Too Thin

Simmer the broth and lemon juice long enough to reduce and concentrate the flavors. If the sauce looks too watery, continue simmering or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.

What if I Want a Little Extra Sauce?

Simply double the broth and butter as mentioned in the “Extra Sauce” section above. You can also add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Is Chicken Broth the Only Substitute for Wine?

Not at all! You can also use:

Vegetable broth for a lighter, plant-based option.
Seafood stock for a more intense seafood flavor.
Water with lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a pinch.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Shrimp scampi is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce base ahead of time (without the shrimp) and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the shrimp, and toss with fresh pasta.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! Simply replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.

Printable Shrimp Scampi Recipe Without Wine

Shrimp Scampi Recipe Without Wine (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz (225g) linguine or spaghetti
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 large lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions:

Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta to al dente, and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
Sauté Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet. Add shrimp, season, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté 30 seconds. Add broth and lemon juice. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
Combine: Return shrimp to the pan, add pasta, lemon zest, parsley, and toss to coat. Add pasta water if needed.
Serve: Plate, garnish with lemon wedges and Parmesan, and enjoy.

Notes:

Double the broth and butter for extra sauce.
Substitute with gluten-free pasta or plant-based butter as needed.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Conclusion

This shrimp scampi recipe without wine is proof that you don’t need alcohol to achieve bold, mouthwatering flavors. It’s a dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights or special gatherings. The balance of garlic, butter, lemon, and broth creates a silky, satisfying sauce that feels both light and indulgent.

Whether you stick to the classic version or add your favorite twists, this recipe is sure to impress. I’d love to hear how you made it your own—did you add veggies, swap the pasta, or make it creamy? Share your experience in the comments or tag me on social media with your delicious creations!

Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe Without Wine – Perfect Non-Alcoholic Dinner

Introduction