Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: A Flavorful and Easy Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-482660H10M31S
Yield: Main Course, Seafood
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined); 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine or chicken/vegetable broth; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)

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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a classic dish that combines succulent shrimp, rich butter, and bold garlic flavor into a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something impressive to serve guests, this recipe is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. The luscious garlic butter sauce is enhanced with a splash of white wine (or broth), lemon juice for brightness, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to tie it all together. Paired with pasta or served on its own, this dish is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, you can have this dish ready in just 20 minutes. It’s a great option for those busy nights when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

Ready in just 20 minutes, this shrimp scampi is perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, homemade meal.

2. Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce

The rich, garlicky butter sauce is the star of the dish, creating a savory, indulgent flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp and pasta.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

You can easily adjust the level of spice, acidity, and richness. Add more lemon, wine, or red pepper flakes to suit your preferences.

4. Low-Carb Option

Serve this dish over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.

5. Versatile and Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this shrimp scampi fits the bill. It’s simple yet sophisticated enough to impress guests.

Ingredients

Shrimp (large, fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined)
Vegetable Oil
Butter (divided)
Garlic (fresh, minced)
White Wine or Broth (chicken or vegetable broth as a non-alcoholic alternative)
Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Lemon Juice (fresh or bottled)
Fresh Parsley (chopped)

Variations

Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Broth-Based Scampi: If you prefer a lighter sauce, swap the butter for more broth to keep the dish flavorful without being too rich.
Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to add extra color and texture to your dish.
Lemon-Garlic Pasta: Add pasta to the shrimp and toss with the garlic butter sauce to create a hearty, complete meal.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, thaw it in a bowl of cold water for about 10 minutes. Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add half of the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Add Wine or Broth

Pour in the white wine or broth and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This helps intensify the flavor of the sauce.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat the shrimp through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Do not overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. If you cook it for too long, it can become rubbery. Aim for 1-2 minutes per side.
Use fresh garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced garlic from a jar.
Adjust the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce. For a lighter sauce, use more broth and less butter.

How to Serve

With Pasta: Serve this garlic butter shrimp scampi over a bed of spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta for a classic presentation.
Over Zoodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles (zoodles).
As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp scampi as an appetizer with toasted baguette slices to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
With a Side Salad: Pair the shrimp scampi with a fresh green salad for a light, complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp and sauce may separate a little, but you can easily reheat it and toss to combine.

Freezing

Freezing shrimp scampi is not ideal as the shrimp can become rubbery and the sauce may separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the sauce separately and add freshly cooked shrimp when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, place them in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through. Add a little extra broth or butter to bring the sauce back to life.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly fine. Just be sure to thaw it properly and pat it dry before cooking.

2. Can I make this without wine?

Yes, you can substitute white wine with chicken or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version of the dish.

3. Can I make this recipe without butter?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use olive oil or a combination of olive oil and broth, though the flavor may not be as rich.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

5. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic over medium heat and keep an eye on it. Garlic burns quickly, so once it becomes fragrant, reduce the heat and move to the next step.

6. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Yes, dried parsley works as a substitute, but use about 1 teaspoon instead of the 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley.

7. How can I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer, or add a little bit of cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce.

8. Can I use shrimp with shells on?

Yes, shrimp with shells on can be used, but you will need to peel them after cooking. Shrimp without shells cooks faster and is easier to eat.

9. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe calls for red pepper flakes, which are optional. Adjust the amount to your taste to control the spice level.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the extra shrimp, or cook in batches to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is the perfect combination of rich flavors, tender shrimp, and a savory garlic butter sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, zucchini noodles, or simply on its own, this dish is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.