Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Looking for a quick yet delectable dish to impress your guests? Look no further than this shrimp scampi! It’s a perfect blend of juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich butter that creates a luxurious flavor profile. This dish is effortlessly elegant and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Imagine tender shrimp sautéed to perfection in a fragrant garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of al dente pasta. This recipe not only looks stunning on the plate but also packs a punch with its bold flavors. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this shrimp scampi is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients That Make the Dish Shine

The key to a delightful garlic butter shrimp scampi lies in the quality of its ingredients. Fresh, large shrimp serve as the star of the dish, providing a juicy, tender bite that complements the rich flavors of the sauce. 

Using unsalted butter allows for better control over the seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors without overwhelming them. Aromatic garlic is essential, bringing warmth and depth to each mouthful. A splash of white wine or chicken broth adds a subtle acidity, balancing the richness of the butter perfectly.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Mastering shrimp scampi requires a few straightforward techniques that ensure a delicious outcome. Start by cooking the pasta until it’s al dente, as this will provide the perfect texture to absorb the flavorful sauce.

Sautéing the shrimp in a hot skillet is crucial; this quick cooking method seals in moisture and creates that appealing pink exterior. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. 

The Magic of Garlic and Butter

Garlic and butter form the backbone of the sauce, creating a rich, aromatic base that elevates the dish. Sautéing the garlic until fragrant, but not browned, allows the oils to infuse the butter and coat the shrimp beautifully.

Adding red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of heat, but this is entirely optional. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the garlic butter, which clings to the pasta, creating a luscious coating that complements the succulent shrimp.

Garnishing for Presentation and Flavor

Presentation matters, especially when serving a dish like shrimp scampi. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

Serving the dish with lemon wedges offers a zesty finish, allowing diners to customize their experience with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The combination of flavors from the butter, garlic, and lemon creates a harmonious balance that is pleasing to the palate.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This shrimp scampi is versatile enough to stand alone or be paired with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the main course, adding a crisp texture to the meal.

For those who enjoy wine, a chilled glass of white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can enhance the dining experience, perfectly matching the flavors of the seafood and buttery sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing shrimp scampi is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This dish can be refrigerated for a couple of days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwaving can be tempting, but it may result in overcooked shrimp. A gentle stovetop reheating method ensures that the flavors remain intact and the dish stays enjoyable.

Classic Shrimp Scampi with Pasta

This shrimp scampi is a delightful dish combining succulent shrimp, fresh garlic, and zesty lemon juice, all tossed in a rich butter sauce. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of parsley for freshness and served over pasta, creating a meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. If using, add red pepper flakes.
4. Deglaze: Pour in the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine: Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g