Tangy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe: A Coastal Delight

Succulent garlic butter shrimp scampi brings Mediterranean coastal vibes right to your kitchen table.

Summer nights call for light, zesty meals that spark conversation.

Juicy shrimp dance in a pool of rich, herbed butter sauce.

Delicate flavors merge seamlessly, creating a dish that feels both elegant and comforting.

Quick preparation meets gourmet taste, making this recipe perfect for spontaneous dinner plans.

Seafood enthusiasts and casual cooks alike will appreciate the simplicity and sophistication of this classic Italian-inspired plate.

Let’s whip up a meal that promises to become a new weekend favorite.

Storage Advice for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

• Refrigerate leftover garlic butter shrimp scampi in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days maximum to maintain the best quality and taste.
• Avoid freezing the dish as shrimp tends to become rubbery and lose its delicate texture when frozen and reheated.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat with a splash of additional butter or olive oil to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

• What makes shrimp cook quickly?

Shrimp cook fast because they’re thin and delicate, usually taking only 2-3 minutes per side. Their protein structure changes quickly when heated, turning from translucent to pink and opaque.

• How do I know when shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Look for a firm, pink color and a slight curl in their shape. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, while undercooked shrimp appear gray and translucent.

• Can I substitute white wine if I don't have it?

Yes, you can replace white wine with chicken or seafood broth. The broth will provide similar depth of flavor and help create a delicious sauce for the shrimp.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

• Rapid Flavor Burst: Transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish with minimal kitchen skills needed, delivering rich garlic and seafood flavors in just minutes.
• Adaptable Meal Solution: Perfectly customizable for different dietary preferences by swapping pasta for zucchini noodles, using gluten-free alternatives, or serving as a standalone protein-packed entrée.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimizes kitchen cleanup with a single skillet cooking method, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights or quick entertaining without extensive preparation or multiple dishes to wash.
• Crowd-Pleasing Protein: Offers a sophisticated yet approachable seafood option that appeals to both adults and kids, with the ability to adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit various taste preferences.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that serves as the star protein of this classic scampi dish.
• Pasta: Optional base that provides a delicious platform for the shrimp and sauce.

• Garlic, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt, Black Pepper: Spices and herbs that add depth and zesty flavor to the shrimp.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Fats that create a rich, smooth sauce and help cook the shrimp.
• White Wine, Lemon Juice: Liquids that add brightness and acidity to the dish.

• Parsley, Parmesan Cheese: Fresh herbs and cheese that provide a final layer of flavor and garnish.

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Prep Pasta

Boil pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside in a warm spot.

Step 2: Warm Skillet

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until butter melts and starts to shimmer.

Step 3: Bloom Aromatic Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan and cook quickly, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

The kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering fragrance in about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Cook Succulent Shrimp

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Sear shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink color and look opaque.

Step 5: Create Luxurious Sauce

• White wine
• Fresh lemon juice

Allow the liquid to simmer and reduce for approximately 2 minutes, creating a rich, flavorful base.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Swirl in remaining butter and chopped fresh parsley.

If using pasta, gently toss the shrimp and sauce with the noodles.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Serve immediately while hot and fragrant.

Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Success

• Choose fresh, large shrimp for the best texture and flavor in this classic scampi dish.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp by watching for the pink and opaque color, which indicates they're perfectly done.
• Use dry white wine like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio for authentic depth and acidity in the sauce.
• Swap pasta for zucchini noodles to create a low-carb, gluten-free version of this seafood favorite.
• Keep butter cold when adding to the sauce to help it emulsify and create a smooth, silky texture.

Flavor Variations for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

• Zucchini Noodle Switch: Replace traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that keeps the dish light and fresh.
• Spicy Cajun Remix: Swap red pepper flakes with Cajun seasoning and add diced bell peppers for a Southern-style seafood experience with extra kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to create a plant-based version that's creamy and flavorful.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and swap white wine for a splash of ouzo to bring Greek coastal flavors to the classic shrimp scampi.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

• Coastal Comfort Plate: Serve over a bed of creamy risotto for a luxurious Italian-inspired dinner that feels like a seaside vacation.
• Zesty Fresh Bowl: Create a light summer meal by serving the shrimp over mixed greens with a citrusy vinaigrette, highlighting the dish's bright flavors.
• Rustic Bread Companion: Pair with crusty sourdough bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, turning this into a satisfying and hearty meal.
• Quick Entertaining Platter: Arrange on a large sharing board with lemon wedges, extra herbs, and toasted crostini for an elegant appetizer perfect for gatherings.

Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Delectable garlic butter shrimp scampi emerges as a Mediterranean-inspired seafood classic that brings coastal flavors to home kitchens. Quick preparation and simple ingredients make this dish a perfect weeknight dinner for those craving restaurant-quality seafood.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined

Fats and Liquids:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) linguine or spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions if serving with the dish, then set aside in a colander to drain completely.
2. Select a large skillet and warm olive oil with part of the butter over medium heat until butter melts and creates a silky cooking surface.
3. Introduce minced garlic to the pan, stirring quickly to release its aromatic essence without browning, approximately 30 seconds.
4. Carefully add raw shrimp to the skillet, seasoning generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
5. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, watching for color transformation to vibrant pink and translucent texture indicating perfect doneness.
6. Deglaze the pan by pouring white wine or chicken broth along with fresh lemon juice, allowing liquid to simmer and concentrate flavors for 2 minutes.
7. Incorporate remaining butter and chopped fresh parsley, creating a luxurious sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully.
8. If desired, gently toss cooked pasta with the shrimp scampi to marry flavors thoroughly.
9. Transfer to serving plates immediately, finishing with a delicate sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.

Notes

• Select jumbo or large shrimp for the most succulent and tender texture in your dish.
• Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to ensure perfect golden-brown searing without releasing excess water.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for brighter, more vibrant citrus flavor compared to bottled versions.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal heat preference, ranging from a mild sprinkle to a spicy kick.
• Swap white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version without compromising rich flavor profile.
• Choose gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to make the recipe suitable for different dietary needs.
• Cook shrimp quickly over high heat to prevent rubbery, tough texture and maintain delicate, juicy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 294 kcal
• Sugar: 0.3 g
• Sodium: 430 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Cholesterol: 195 mg