Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe: A Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion

Shrimp scampi is a classic seafood dish bursting with flavors of garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine. This easy shrimp scampi recipe comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner. Whether you serve it over angel hair pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this dish is a delicious main course that will impress every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp (fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• ½ cup chicken broth (for extra depth of flavor)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 lb angel hair pasta (or preferred gluten-free pasta)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions to Make Shrimp Scampi

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Thaw frozen shrimp under cold running water if using. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and black pepper.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring salted water to a boil in a big pot.Follow the directions on the package to prepare the angel hair pasta. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. After taking the shrimp out of the pan, set them aside.

4. Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Let the sauce reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.

5. Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the scampi sauce. Add the cooked pasta along with a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the noodles. Drizzle in the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil for extra richness.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. For a full dinner, serve with light salad or crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parsley elevate the flavors of this dish.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking will make them rubbery instead of tender and juicy.
• Wine substitute: If you prefer an alcohol-free version, replace the white wine with extra chicken broth and a splash of white vinegar.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap regular pasta for a gluten-free alternative to enjoy a gluten-free recipe.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or a dash of black pepper for a balanced kick.

Storage and Reheating

Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. To loosen the sauce, add a little pasta water or chicken broth and reheat it over low heat in a skillet.

Pairing Suggestions

• Pasta Alternatives: Serve over rice, zucchini noodles, or alongside roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.
• Drink Pairing: Enjoy this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay.
• Side Dishes: A simple green salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread complement the meal perfectly.

Try This Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe at Home

This garlic butter shrimp scampi is a restaurant-quality dish that comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this flavorful dish will become one of your go-to shrimp recipes. Save this recipe card and try it next time you crave a delicious seafood meal!