Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Garlic Butter Sauce

Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that’s packed with bold flavors and takes minimal time to prepare. With its succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and a hint of lemon, this dish is the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and buttery goodness. Whether you serve it with pasta, crusty bread, or over rice, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party.

In this easy-to-follow recipe, we’ll guide you through each step to make a perfect shrimp scampi that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Scampi:

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For Serving:

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
• Crusty bread (optional, for dipping)

How to Make Shrimp Scampi Recipe ?

Step 1: Cook the Pasta (Optional)

If you’re serving shrimp scampi over pasta, start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (typically 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need it to adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

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

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Once the shrimp is cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add the butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and white wine. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat. Stir in the chopped parsley, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add extra red pepper flakes or even a chopped fresh chili for an added heat boost.
• Creamy Shrimp Scampi: For a richer sauce, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
• Cajun Shrimp Scampi: Use Cajun seasoning instead of red pepper flakes for a Southern twist.
• Shrimp Scampi with Vegetables: Add veggies like asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

Cooking Notes

• Be sure to use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp! They cook quickly and can become tough if left in the pan for too long.
• If you’re not using pasta, you can serve the shrimp scampi over rice, quinoa, or even a bed of greens.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Scampi is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few great options:

• Serve over a bed of freshly cooked pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine).
• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve with a loaf of garlic bread or crusty French bread to mop up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles).

Helpful Tips

• Freshness: Always try to use the freshest shrimp you can find. Frozen shrimp work fine, but they may lose some flavor and texture.
• Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with chicken broth or vegetable broth, though the flavor will be a little different.
• Reheating: Shrimp scampi is best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, reheat it gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Related Recipes:

• Bang Bang Chicken and Shrimp Recipe
• Indulgent Rich Crab and Shrimp Bisque
• Savor the Flavors: Exquisite Asian Seafood Recipes

FAQs

1. Can I make Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?

While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce, cook the shrimp, and combine when ready to serve.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

3. Can I add vegetables to the shrimp scampi?

Definitely! Adding veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus can make the dish more filling and nutritious.

4. How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

The key is not to overcook the shrimp. They only need 2-3 minutes per side, and they’ll cook through quickly when added to the hot pan.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this shrimp scampi recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich garlic butter sauce and tender shrimp, it’s easy to see why this dish is so beloved. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread to soak up the sauce, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

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