Easy & Delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Ready to whip up a dish that’s incredibly delicious, remarkably easy, and sure to impress?

Then get ready to fall in love with this Shrimp Scampi recipe! Imagine succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, garlicky, buttery sauce, ready in mere minutes. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels incredibly special. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s unbelievably quick to make, ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The garlic-butter sauce is outrageously delicious, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
• It uses minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
• It’s a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
• It’s easily customizable to your spice level and dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This Shrimp Scampi recipe stands out due to its simplicity and focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. While many recipes use wine, this one achieves a bright, fresh flavor by adding a touch of lemon juice at the end. The generous amount of garlic is quickly sautéed in butter to infuse the whole dish with an amazing aroma and taste. We’re not just throwing things together; we’re carefully building layers of flavor with every step.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (the base for that amazing sauce!)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp on the garlic!)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and cooked through.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve Shrimp Scampi immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to kick things up a notch? Try these optional toppings:

• A sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
• A pinch of extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
• A squeeze of extra lemon juice for added brightness.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the shrimp! It’ll become rubbery. Cook until they’re pink and opaque, and no longer translucent.
• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the shrimp and garlic.
• Make sure the butter is melted but not browned for the best base for your sauce.
• Don’t crowd the pan when cooking the shrimp, or they may steam instead of sear; work in batches if needed.
• Serve Shrimp Scampi immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help them get a better sear.
• Can I substitute the white wine? Absolutely! You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even just a bit of extra lemon juice.
• How can I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can chop your garlic and parsley beforehand to save time.
• Can I add vegetables? Absolutely! Consider adding some spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to make it your own? Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Shrimp Scampi with Pasta: Toss cooked pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, with the shrimp scampi sauce.
• Shrimp Scampi with Veggies: Sauté vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach with the garlic before adding the shrimp.
• Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer sauce.
• Garlic Herb Shrimp Scampi: Add herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil in addition to parsley.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile shrimp scampi is delicious served on its own as an appetizer, over pasta or rice as a main course, or alongside some crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. A side salad also pairs well with this dish.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Scampi recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Now that you know how easy it is, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and don’t forget to share your photos. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes!