Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a rich, buttery garlic sauce. Infused with a splash of white wine or broth, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread for the ultimate experience!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by placing them in a colander under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned. Add the white wine (or broth) and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish the sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh lemon juice. Stir until the butter has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are heated through.
- Serve: Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Notes
- For an alcohol-free version, chicken or vegetable broth works just as well as white wine.
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference, or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American