Keto Shrimp Scampi: Quick, Easy, & Low-Carb Recipe

Discover the Delicious and Easy-to-Make Keto Shrimp Scampi, a Quick, Low-Carb Meal Perfect for any Night of the Week.

Can I Use Other Seafood Besides Shrimp?

✅ YES! Scallops or crabmeat can be used as alternatives for a different take on the dish.

Of all the things that humans eat, shrimp scampi is the epitome of easy, and elegant cooking. Filled with tasty flavors and juicy Shrimp, it is a favorite choice for seafood fans and home chefs. However, traditional shrimp scampi is unsuitable for a keto diet due to its high carbohydrate content.

The good news is that the keto shrimp scampi recipe is here. This version still delivers the delicious flavors of classic shrimp scampi but is low-carb compared to the standard version. You can enjoy this dish in a ketogenic manner by substituting some low-carb ingredients with high-carb ones.

This article will discuss keto shrimp and scallops, weight loss benefits, the main ingredients, and a step-by-step guide on how to cook a full ketogenic diet-packed meal. It is filled with resources for those who have graduated to the keto pro level or are just starting.

So, don your apron and get ready for an exciting cooking session. This is a fast, simple, low-carb shrimp scampi recipe, so you can feel guilt-free when consuming every delicious bite. Today, we will discover the wonderful world of keto shrimp scampi!

Close-up of our Keto Shrimp Scampi: tender shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce, garnished with fresh parsley.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Everybody wants to be healthier, right? Well, with the keto diet, you can do just that. It helps you lose weight and feel better in general. Eating less carbs and more healthy fats can give you more energy and make your brain work better.

Creating keto-friendly recipes is a fascinating aspect of cooking. Take Shrimp Scampi, for instance. When you make it fit the keto diet, it becomes extra special. It’s still super tasty but without all the guilty feelings. It’s a win-win!

Shrimp is low in carbs and high in protein, which is perfect for keto. It also contains good stuff like omega-3s, which are good for your heart. When you mix Shrimp with the right ingredients, as we do in our recipe, you get a delicious, keto-friendly meal.

Our Keto Shrimp Scampi is special because it’s quick and easy to make. You only need a few basic ingredients, which take less than 30 minutes to cook. There is no need to spend forever in the kitchen or hunt down fancy stuff. Our recipe keeps things simple while still packing in tons of flavor.

Ingredients Needed

For our Keto Shrimp Scampi recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Shrimp – Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined
Butter – Unsalted, for sautéing
Olive Oil – Extra virgin
Garlic – Fresh cloves, minced
Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed
Chicken Broth – Low-sodium
White Wine (optional) – Dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For a hint of spice
Salt and Pepper – To taste
Fresh Parsley – Chopped for garnish

Keto-Specific Substitutions or Tips:

Butter and Olive Oil: These healthy fats are perfect for a keto diet. If you prefer, you can use ghee (clarified butter) instead of regular butter.
Chicken Broth: To control the salt content of your dish, look for low-sodium chicken broth.
White Wine: While white wine adds depth of flavor to the scampi sauce, it’s optional. If you prefer to skip the wine, substitute it with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference. You can omit them altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
Fresh Parsley: This herb adds color and freshness to the dish. If you prefer, you can substitute other herbs, such as cilantro or basil.

With these simple ingredients and keto-friendly tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious Keto Shrimp Scampi that’s sure to impress!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Golden, perfectly cooked shrimp on a plate.

STEP 1: Preparation

Thaw and Clean the Shrimp:

If using frozen Shrimp, thaw them by placing them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes.
Once the shrimp have thawed, proceed to remove the shells and devein them if required.
Pat them dry with paper towels.

Mince Garlic and Chop Parsley: Peel and mince fresh garlic cloves. Chop fresh parsley finely for garnish.

STEP 2: Cooking the Shrimp

Sauté Garlic in Butter: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, careful not to let it brown.

Cook Shrimp Until Pink:

Add the cleaned shrimp to the skillet on a single layer.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Be careful not to overcook the Shrimp, as they can become tough.

STEP 3: Making the Sauce

After cooking the Shrimp, add freshly squeezed lemon juice and chicken broth to the skillet—season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Simmer Until the Sauce Thickens: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly and reduces, intensifying the flavors.

STEP 4: Combining Everything

Toss Shrimp in the Sauce: Add the cooked Shrimp back to the skillet once the sauce has thickened to your liking. Toss them gently in the sauce until they are evenly coated.

Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the Keto Shrimp Scampi with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Nutritional Information

Golden, perfectly cooked shrimp drizzled with zesty lemon sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.

The nutritional facts for Keto Shrimp Scampi are provided per serving.

Calories: There are approximately 250 calories per serving.
Protein: Around 20 grams of protein
Fat: Approximately 15 grams of fat
Carbohydrates: Roughly 5 grams of carbohydrates
Fiber: About 1 gram of fiber
Vitamin C: Provides 10% of the recommended daily intake
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Contains 200 mg of omega-3 fatty acids

These nutritional facts highlight the low-carb and high-protein nature of Keto Shrimp Scampi, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for those following a ketogenic diet.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories: Each serving of our Keto Shrimp Scampi contains approximately [calories per serving].

Macronutrients:

Protein: Shrimp is a fantastic source of protein, providing [grams of protein per serving]. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, helping you stay strong and healthy.
Fat: Our recipe incorporates healthy fats from butter and olive oil, offering [grams of fat per serving]. These fats are a key component of the keto diet, helping you feel satisfied and energized.
Carbohydrates: With only [grams of carbohydrates per serving], our Keto Shrimp Scampi is incredibly low in carbs. This makes it an ideal choice for those following a ketogenic diet, as it helps keep your blood sugar levels stable and promotes fat burning.
Fiber: Our Keto Shrimp Scampi contains [grams of fiber per serving], aiding in digestion and promoting feelings of fullness.

Vitamins and Minerals:

Vitamin C: Fresh lemon juice boosts vitamin C in our dish, supporting immune function and collagen production.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation in the body.

Low-Carb Benefits:

Our Keto Shrimp Scampi offers a wealth of low-carb benefits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to minimize their carbohydrate intake:

Supports Ketosis: Our recipe’s minimal carb content helps keep your body in a state of ketosis, where it burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar: By avoiding high-carb ingredients, our Keto Shrimp Scampi helps prevent spikes in blood sugar levels, promoting overall health and well-being.
Promotes Weight Loss: The combination of protein, healthy fats, and low carbs in our dish promotes satiety and helps you feel full for longer, making it easier to manage your weight and cravings.

Tips for the Perfect Keto Shrimp Scampi

A plate adorned with succulent cooked shrimp, surrounded by slices of vibrant lemon.

Selecting the Best Shrimp:

Look for fresh or high-quality frozen Shrimp. Fresh Shrimp should have a firm texture and a slightly salty scent.
Opt for wild-caught Shrimp whenever possible. They tend to have a better flavor and are more environmentally sustainable than farm-raised varieties.
Select peeled and deveined shrimp to expedite the preparation process.

Adjusting Flavors to Suit Your Palate:

Experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor profile of your Keto Shrimp Scampi. Consider adding herbs like thyme or basil for extra freshness or incorporating spices like paprika or cayenne for a hint of heat.
Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice according to your taste preferences. If you love garlic, add an extra clove or two for a more intense flavor. Likewise, squeeze more lemon juice into the sauce if you enjoy a tangy kick.
Be bold and play around with the butter-to-olive oil ratio in the recipe. Some people prefer a richer, more buttery sauce, while others prefer a lighter, more olive oil-based sauce.

Alternative Ingredients for Variety:

Swap out the traditional Shrimp for other seafood options, like scallops or crabmeat, for a delicious twist on classic shrimp scampi.
If you’re not a fan of seafood, you can substitute shrimp with thinly sliced chicken breast or even tofu as a vegetarian option.
Experiment with low-carb noodles or vegetable alternatives like zucchini (zoodles) or spaghetti squash to serve with your Keto Shrimp Scampi.
You can substitute the butter with ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free option and omit the Parmesan cheese from the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

A tantalizing bowl of zesty cooked shrimp, brimming with flavor and ready to delight your taste buds.

Pairing with Keto-Friendly Sides:

Serve your Keto Shrimp Scampi over a bed of zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. Spiralize fresh zucchini and sauté it in olive oil until tender.
Cauliflower rice is another excellent option to serve alongside Keto Shrimp Scampi. This grain-free alternative provides a neutral base for soaking up the delicious scampi sauce.
For a lighter option, consider serving the shrimp scampi over a crisp, refreshing salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette.

Garnishing and enhancing the dish:

Garnish your Keto Shrimp Scampi with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
For a burst of citrusy freshness, garnish each serving with a wedge of lemon. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving can enhance the flavors and brighten the overall taste.
If you enjoy spicy food, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Alternatively, you can serve the shrimp scampi with hot sauce or chili oil for those who prefer an extra kick.
Consider serving the dish with a slice of keto-friendly garlic bread made with almond flour or coconut flour for dipping into the savory scampi sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Shrimp for Keto Shrimp Scampi?

Yes, you can use frozen Shrimp for this recipe. Before cooking, thaw them properly in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes.

When are the Shrimp Fully Cooked?

Shrimp cook quickly, usually in about 2-3 minutes per side. When they turn pink and opaque, they are ready. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Can I Make Keto Shrimp Scampi Dairy-Free?

You can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter with ghee or coconut oil. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese from the sauce if you prefer.

Is White Wine Necessary for the Sauce?

While white wine adds depth of flavor to the scampi sauce, it is optional. You can substitute it with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice if you prefer not to use alcohol.

Can I Make Keto Shrimp Scampi Ahead of Time?

While it’s best to enjoy shrimp scampi fresh, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time. You can clean and devein the Shrimp in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. You can also prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it gently before serving.

Get up close and personal with these delectable shrimp, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.

Final Thoughts

Keto Shrimp Scampi is a delicious and satisfying dish and a perfect fit for those following a low-carb lifestyle. Its simple yet flavorful ingredients and quick cooking time make it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

By selecting the best quality shrimp, adjusting flavors to suit your palate, and exploring alternative ingredients, you can customize this recipe and create a truly exceptional meal. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just starting your low-carb journey, Keto Shrimp Scampi will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to culinary delight with this mouthwatering dish. Enjoy!