Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of garlic, butter, and succulent shrimp sizzling away in a skillet. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a restaurant-quality dish that comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant date night at home.

I first discovered this recipe when I needed a quick yet impressive meal for unexpected guests. With a handful of simple ingredients, I was able to whip up a dish that had everyone raving. Now, it's a staple in my kitchen whenever I want something delicious without spending hours cooking.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to fall in love with this easy yet elegant dish. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy shrimp, this scampi recipe has something for everyone.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy to prepare. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that tastes like it came straight from a fancy Italian restaurant.

Not only is it simple, but it’s also packed with flavor. The rich garlic butter sauce coats each shrimp perfectly, while a splash of lemon juice adds the perfect amount of brightness.

This dish is also versatile. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread for dipping, or even on its own for a low-carb option. No matter how you enjoy it, it’s bound to be a hit.

Plus, it’s budget-friendly. Shrimp is often seen as a luxury ingredient, but by using frozen or buying in bulk, you can enjoy this gourmet meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Shrimp is the star of the dish. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work just as well—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

Garlic is essential for that classic scampi flavor. Fresh garlic cloves provide the best taste, but in a pinch, pre-minced garlic will work too.

Butter and olive oil create a rich, silky sauce. Using both ensures you get a balance of flavor without the butter burning.

White wine or chicken broth adds depth to the sauce. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully, but if you prefer to cook without alcohol, a good-quality chicken broth is a great substitute.

Lemon juice and zest bring a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the butter sauce. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for the most vibrant flavor.

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat. If you like things spicier, feel free to adjust the amount to taste.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have an amazing meal in no time.

Start by preparing your shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear properly and prevents excess moisture in the pan.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and half the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook for another minute until everything is heated through.

Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a final pat of butter for extra richness. Serve immediately over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), you can store them properly to enjoy later.

Refrigerate any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. However, keep in mind that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon reheating.

To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or olive oil. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to try:

For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp scampi over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Make it extra creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. This creates a luscious, velvety sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.

Swap out the protein by using scallops or even chunks of lobster tail for an elevated seafood dish.

If you don’t have white wine, try substituting it with chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar for that slight acidity.

Want to make it spicier? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a dish that never disappoints. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a household favorite!

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