Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter
Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together tender shrimp and rich, buttery garlic sauce. The shrimp are quickly cooked to just the right…
By Emily
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Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together tender shrimp and rich, buttery garlic sauce. The shrimp are quickly cooked to just the right pink, and then tossed in a luscious mixture of garlic, butter, lemon, and a hint of parsley. This dish is bright and flavorful, with the garlic butter giving it that perfect touch of comfort.
I love making this recipe when I want something impressive but easy to throw together. One of my favorite parts is how fast it cooks – the shrimp are done in just minutes, so you can have a tasty meal on the table in no time. Plus, the garlic butter sauce feels like a warm hug for your taste buds.
My go-to way to enjoy this shrimp scampi is over a bed of spaghetti or with some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the buttery sauce. It makes for a meal that feels special, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. I always find that everyone loves this dish because it’s so full of flavor without being too heavy or complicated.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using large shrimp gives a nice bite and cooks quickly. If you can’t find fresh ones, thawed frozen shrimp work well too. Just be sure to dry them well before cooking.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter brings richness, and olive oil helps prevent burning. You can swap butter for a dairy-free margarine if needed, but the flavor will be milder.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must here for that bold flavor. Garlic powder won’t give the same punch, so try to use fresh each time.
White Wine or Chicken Broth: White wine adds nice acidity and depth. If you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth is a good substitute that still adds flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh always tastes fresher.
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Shrimp cook fast, so keeping an eye on them is key:
- Pat shrimp dry to prevent steaming and help them sear nicely.
- Cook shrimp 2 minutes per side over medium-high heat until they turn pink and firm up.
- Remove shrimp from the pan right away to avoid continuing to cook in residual heat.
- They should curl into a loose “C” shape; tight balls mean overcooked shrimp.
Remember, less is more—shrimp are best when juicy and tender, not rubbery. I like to remove them as soon as they’re done and add them back to the sauce just before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking shrimp evenly and making the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
- Garlic press or knife – helps you mince garlic finely to release its flavor quickly.
- Spatula or tongs – lets you turn shrimp gently without breaking them.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for exact amounts of butter, oil, and lemon juice.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of chicken if you want a different protein with the same sauce.
- Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for a fresh, colorful touch.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for a creamy, cheesy twist.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons), plus lemon wedges for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a quick but impressive meal. Prep your ingredients quickly, then cook the shrimp and prepare the sauce all in one pan, finishing with a fresh burst of lemon and parsley.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
First, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help them sear nicely. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter along with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until you smell the garlic fragrance. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and the lemon juice, scraping the pan’s bottom to loosen any flavorful bits. Let it simmer and reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and smooth. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them to coat well with the garlic butter sauce. Heat everything through for about 1 minute. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and give it a taste—add more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Serving:
Serve your shrimp scampi right away, with lemon wedges on the side. It’s wonderful over pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking. The best way is to leave them in the fridge overnight or submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth is a great substitute that keeps plenty of flavor. You can also use vegetable broth or even water with a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and refrigerate it separately. Cook the shrimp fresh when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor. Reheat the sauce gently before tossing it with cooked shrimp.
