Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both fancy and easy to make? If you’re a fan of seafood and buttery, garlicky goodness, then shrimp scampi is about to become your new favorite dish! It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that’s packed with flavor, comes together in no time, and makes you feel like a pro chef. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a date night, this dish has got you covered.
What Is Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of white wine and a hint of lemon. Traditionally, it’s served over pasta, but it’s just as delicious with crusty bread or even on its own. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—minimal ingredients, quick prep time, and incredible flavor.
Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen
What makes shrimp scampi so irresistible? It’s all about the fresh and flavorful ingredients that come together in harmony. Here’s what you need:
- Shrimp – Go for large, fresh, or frozen shrimp. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined.
- Garlic – This is the heart of the dish. The more, the better!
- Butter – Adds richness and a silky texture.
- Olive oil – Enhances the flavors and helps cook the shrimp perfectly.
- White wine – A splash of dry white wine gives the sauce a lovely depth. (Don’t worry, the alcohol cooks off!)
- Lemon juice – A touch of acidity brightens up the dish.
- Parsley – Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Red pepper flakes – A little heat makes the dish even more exciting.
- Pasta (optional) – If you’re serving it over pasta, linguine or spaghetti works best.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Making shrimp scampi is as easy as it gets. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
Prepare the Shrimp
If you’re using frozen shrimp, let them thaw completely. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear nicely in the pan instead of steaming.
Cook the Pasta (If Using)
If you’re planning to serve the scampi over pasta, now’s the time to get it boiling. Cook it until al dente, then set it aside.
Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. Be careful—garlic burns fast, and you don’t want a bitter taste!
Add the Shrimp
Now, add the shrimp to the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery.
Make the Sauce
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute to let the alcohol cook off. Then, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and more butter for that velvety finish.
Toss Everything Together
If you’re serving it over pasta, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the sauce. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and your shrimp scampi is ready to serve!
Tips to Make the Best Shrimp Scampi
- Use fresh ingredients – The fresher the shrimp and garlic, the better the flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
- Use a good quality wine – Since wine adds depth to the sauce, pick one you’d actually drink.
- Adjust the seasoning – Like it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes. Want it creamier? Stir in a little heavy cream.
What to Serve With Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- A side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- A light green salad for a fresh contrast.
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
- Rice or mashed potatoes if you’re skipping the pasta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic butter shrimp scampi is everything you need in a meal—quick, easy, and full of rich, buttery flavors. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can whip up in just 20 minutes at home. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can serve it however you like.
Conclusion
Shrimp scampi is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is ridiculously simple to make. With its garlicky, buttery sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it’s a meal that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you enjoy it over pasta, with bread, or all by itself, this dish will always leave you craving more. Try it once, and it might just become a regular in your dinner rotation!
FAQs
Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?
Yes! You can substitute white wine with chicken broth or just use extra lemon juice for a similar depth of flavor.
How do I store leftover shrimp scampi?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw them first and pat them dry before cooking.
What type of pasta is best for shrimp scampi?
Linguine or spaghetti works best, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
How can I make shrimp scampi spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it more heat.