This Shrimp Scampi is a quick and tasty dish. It features juicy shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, tossed with pasta or served over rice. Yum!
Making this recipe is a breeze! I love how the garlic fills the kitchen with a wonderful smell. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home, especially when I’m feeling a little fancy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Choose large shrimp for the best bite. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp work great too. Just thaw them before cooking. You could also use scampi or langoustine as an alternative.
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are classic choices, but feel free to swap in any pasta shape you love, like fettuccine or even gluten-free options!
Butter and Olive Oil: I recommend a combination of both for a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, stick with just olive oil or use a vegan butter substitute.
White Wine: A dry white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you can’t have wine, chicken broth is a great substitute. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for taste. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh really shines in this dish. I often use extra because I love garlic!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is timing. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. You want them pink and slightly firm, not rubbery. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and let the oil and butter get warm before adding garlic.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. Turn them when you see the edges turning pink.
- Remove from heat as soon as they’re opaque. They will continue to cook a little after you take them off the stove.
Following these steps guarantees a tender, juicy shrimp that makes your scampi amazing!
How to Make Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as you prefer)
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- 2 slices of crusty bread, toasted (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Shrimp Scampi recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! With a bit of boiling, sautéing, and tossing, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside while you make the sauce.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This will create a flavorful base for your dish. When the butter is all melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic and the red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—it can burn easily!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add in the shrimp, season them with salt and pepper, and cook while turning them occasionally. You’ll want them to be pink and opaque, which takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. It’s so fun to watch them transform!
4. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and squeeze in the lemon juice. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 3 minutes to let the flavors combine and reduce slightly.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the last tablespoon of butter until it melts into a glossy sauce. This is where the magic happens! It will make your dish rich and delicious.
6. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water until it’s just right and coats the pasta beautifully.
7. Add Fresh Flavor:
Mix in the chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or lemon juice if you want.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Shrimp Scampi immediately with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top and some toasted bread on the side for dipping in that delicious sauce. Enjoy your amazing creation!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 20-30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No problem! You can substitute white wine with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar flavor profile. Adding a splash of vinegar or extra lemon juice can also give a nice acidity if you like.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
While Shrimp Scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, and combine them with the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.
