Cowboy Scampi is a bold, buttery twist on the classic shrimp scampi, infused with rustic seasonings and a kiss of cowboy charm. Imagine plump shrimp bathed in garlic butter, kissed with smoky spices, and finished with a pop of fresh herbs. It’s fast, full of flavor, and designed to impress without the fuss.

Whether you’re serving it over warm buttery noodles, crusty bread, or even scooping it into tacos, Cowboy Scampi brings a satisfying sizzle to any table. It’s a go-to recipe when you need something quick yet unforgettable—perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties where hearty meets elegant.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Use large raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Tail-on shrimp add a pretty presentation, but tail-off works better for bite-sized eating. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work—just thaw thoroughly and pat dry before cooking. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, which can become rubbery when reheated in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cowboy Scampi

Shrimp: The star of the show. Go for large or jumbo shrimp to soak up all that buttery, garlicky goodness.
Garlic: Finely minced, it infuses the butter with rich, savory depth.

Butter: This is what makes scampi luxuriously smooth and coats the shrimp beautifully.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the butter from burning.
Smoked paprika: Gives that cowboy flair with a deep, smoky undertone.

Red pepper flakes: Optional but perfect for a little kick.
Fresh parsley: For a bright finish that cuts through the richness.
Lemon juice: Adds acidity and balance to the bold flavors.

Salt and black pepper: Essential to season the shrimp perfectly.

How To Make the Cowboy Scampi

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels. This ensures even cooking and prevents watery sauce.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and sizzling, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Add the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and slightly golden.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and add the remaining butter. Squeeze in the lemon juice and let everything simmer together for another 1-2 minutes. Swirl the pan to combine the buttery, spicy sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Herbs

Turn off the heat and toss in the chopped parsley. Give the skillet a gentle shake or stir to coat everything in that herb-kissed cowboy butter.

How to Serve and Store Cowboy Scampi

Cowboy Scampi is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot over a bed of buttery linguine, creamy mashed potatoes, or tucked into warm tortillas for shrimp tacos. It also shines as an appetizer with toasted baguette slices to soak up the sauce. Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for that final restaurant-style touch.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods to keep the shrimp from turning rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s best to avoid pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe. Cooking the shrimp from raw allows it to absorb the buttery, garlicky flavor without becoming overcooked.

What can I substitute for smoked paprika?

Regular paprika or a touch of chipotle powder works in a pinch, but smoked paprika adds that essential cowboy depth.

Is Cowboy Scampi spicy?

Only mildly. The red pepper flakes give a gentle heat, but you can skip them entirely or add more depending on your taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative. Just make sure it can handle medium-high heat for the searing step.

What wine pairs well with Cowboy Scampi?

A chilled glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the butter and the brightness of the lemon.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Kick?

If you love this Cowboy Scampi, you’ll definitely want to check out these flavor-packed favorites:

• One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta for a smoky-sweet twist.
• Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet for a creamy, bold fusion.
• Louisiana Seafood Gumbo if you’re craving Southern comfort in a bowl.
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for another fast and hearty skillet winner.
• Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini when you want a sticky-sweet flavor bomb.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you dial up the spice or add a touch of cream? Did you serve it taco-style or go classic with pasta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with flavor and flair.

Cowboy Scampi

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

Cowboy Scampi is a rustic, flavor-packed dinner made with tender shrimp seared in garlic butter and cowboy spices. It’s quick to make, endlessly versatile, and sure to impress whether you’re serving it with pasta, potatoes, or bread.

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

If using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat dry thoroughly.
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add shrimp in a single layer. Sprinkle with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Sear shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and golden.

Lower heat, add remaining butter and lemon juice. Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Turn off heat and stir in chopped parsley.
Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner