Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

<h1>Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe</h1>

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a dish that brings the rich, savory flavors of the sea right to your kitchen. Imagine plump shrimp curled and glistening, wrapped in a luscious sauce that combines butter, garlic, and a hint of lemony brightness. The smell alone—warm, buttery garlic wafting through your home—will make everyone’s mouths water. This dish is not just about taste; it comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. If you love comfort food that dazzles without an endless list of complicated steps, this shrimp scampi is just the ticket. Plus, it’s an excellent way to impress friends or family with your culinary skills without facing hours in the kitchen!

Seasonal meals mean fresh ingredients, and shrimp scampi shines as a fantastic choice year-round, whether with freshly caught shrimp or frozen ones that you can easily keep on hand. Serve it over a bed of pasta, or go solo with a side of crusty bread, soaking up that delicious garlic-butter goodness. Get ready for taste sensations that dance on your tongue, with each bite bringing together creamy, savory, and a touch of spice.

<h2>Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi</h2>

Let me tell you why Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi might just be your new favorite dish. First off, it’s incredibly quick to make—perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without the hassle. Five ingredients come together in perfect harmony, so each component adds its own magic: the shrimp, the buttery sauce, the garlic, and a splash of lemon to brighten it all. 

This dish is flexible too! You can serve it over pasta or enjoy it as is, depending on your mood. Plus, it’s a great meal prep option that tastes just as fresh reheated. You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients; many of them are pantry staples. Not to mention, it’s an undeniably impressive dish that can elevate any dinner.

Here are some specific reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- **Speedy Preparation**: It comes together in about 30 minutes.
- **Decadent Flavor**: The garlic and butter meld beautifully, creating a rich sauce.
- **Versatile**: Perfect on its own or served with pasta or crusty bread.
- **Easy Ingredients**: Requires just a handful of simple, accessible ingredients.
- **Meal Prep Friendly**: Tastes great reheated; make a batch for the week!
- **Healthier Indulgence**: Enjoy a satisfying meal without unnecessary guilt.

<h2>Shrimp Scampi Ingredients</h2>

- **Shrimp** – The star of the dish, bringing a delicate ocean flavor and juicy texture.
- **Unsalted Butter** – Creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats everything beautifully.
- **Garlic** – Adds a warm, aromatic base full of savory depth.
- **Red Pepper Flakes** – Offers a subtle kick that livens up the dish without overwhelming it.
- **White Wine (optional)** – Enhances the sauce with a slight acidity (or use more chicken broth instead).
- **Chicken Broth** – Adds more depth to the sauce, keeping everything moist.
- **Lemon Juice** – Brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.
- **Salt and Pepper** – Essential seasonings to enhance and elevate the flavors.
- **Fresh Parsley** – Adds a touch of freshness and color for a lovely finish.
- **Cooked Pasta** (optional) – Fantastic for soaking up that delicious sauce.

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.

<h2>How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi</h2>

<h3>Phase 1 – Prep</h3>
1. Gather all your ingredients and measure them out.
2. If using fresh shrimp, peel and devein them, ensuring they are clean.
3. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
4. Prepare your pasta if you’re serving it with the scampi.

<h3>Phase 2 – Cook / Assemble</h3>
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is foamy, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another minute.
4. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque.
5. If using wine, pour it in now and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Then, add the chicken broth and lemon juice. 
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently until everything is well coated.

<h3>Phase 3 – Serve</h3>
1. If serving over pasta, toss the cooked pasta in the skillet just before plating.
2. Transfer the shrimp scampi to plates or serving bowls.
3. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
4. Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

<h2>Pro Tips for the Best Results</h2>
- **Swap the Butter**: Try using olive oil if you want a lighter take on the dish.
- **Freshness Counts**: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- **Don’t Skip the Garlic**: More garlic equals more flavor—feel free to add an extra clove or two!
- **Heat Control**: Keep the heat medium to prevent burning the garlic.
- **Pasta Precision**: If you’re using pasta, slightly undercook it so it absorbs more sauce when mixed.

<h2>Common Mistakes to Avoid</h2>
One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough and rubbery. Shrimp only need a few minutes to cook—look for a pink color and firm texture. Another pitfall is burning the garlic. It should just become fragrant; if it turns brown, it can taste bitter. Finally, skipping the lemon juice can lead to an overwhelmingly rich dish; this little ingredient brightens the flavor beautifully.

<h2>Recipe Variations</h2>
- For a gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice.
- Add additional veggies like asparagus or spinach for a nutrient boost.
- Swap lemon juice for lime to change up the flavor profile.
- Adjust the spice level by using more or less red pepper flakes.

<h2>How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi</h2>
- Best enjoyed over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

<h2>Make Ahead & Storage</h2>

<h3>Can I Meal Prep This?</h3>
Yes! Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is perfect for meal prep and can be easily stored for later.

<h3>Storing Leftovers</h3>
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

<h3>Freezing</h3>
While shrimp freeze well, the sauce may change texture. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but if you must freeze, use it within 1 month.

<h3>Reheating</h3>
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

<h2>FAQs</h2>
**Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?**  
Yes, just thaw them in the fridge before use for best results.

**What can I substitute for white wine?**  
You can use more chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.

**Is this shrimp scampi spicy?**  
It has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust to your taste.

**What type of pasta works best?**  
Spaghetti or linguine are classic options that pair well with the sauce.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a wonderful way to enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it's also quick and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for family, this dish is sure to impress. Dive in and enjoy—your taste buds will thank you!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

A quick and decadent dish featuring plump shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter Creates a rich, creamy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic Mince for best flavor
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth Alternatively use white wine for more acidity
• 2 tbsp lemon juice Freshly squeezed for brightness
• Salt salt To taste
• Black pepper black pepper To taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley Chopped for garnish
• optional serving cooked pasta Great for soaking up the sauce

Method

 

Preparation

1. Gather all your ingredients and measure them out.
2. If using fresh shrimp, peel and devein them, ensuring they are clean.
3. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
4. Prepare your pasta if you’re serving it with the scampi.

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is foamy, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another minute.
4. Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque.
5. If using wine, pour it in now and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Then, add the chicken broth and lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently until everything is well coated.

Serving

1. If serving over pasta, toss the cooked pasta in the skillet just before plating.
2. Transfer the shrimp scampi to plates or serving bowls.
3. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
4. Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

Notes

For best results, don’t overcook the shrimp, keep the heat medium to avoid burning the garlic, and feel free to adjust the spice level.