This Easy Shrimp Scampi is quick and bursting with flavor. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a buttery garlic sauce that will have everyone asking for more!
Who doesn’t love a meal ready in minutes? I usually enjoy it over pasta, and trust me, you’ll want to soak up every drop of that tasty sauce with some bread! 🍤
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for this dish, as they cook quickly and are easy to eat. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work just as well. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor to the sauce. You can substitute ghee or coconut oil if you want a dairy-free option, but I love the creaminess of the butter here.
Olive Oil: A good extra-virgin olive oil elevates the flavor. If you prefer a neutral oil, canola or avocado oil are nice alternatives that won’t alter the taste.
Wine or Broth: A dry white wine brings acidity and complements the shrimp perfectly. Chicken broth is a good substitution if you want to skip the alcohol. You can also use vegetable broth for a veggie-friendly option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for strong flavor, but jarred minced garlic will work in a pinch. I prefer the fresh kind for that aromatic kick!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a subtle kick. You can leave them out if you’re not a fan of heat, although I think they really enhance the dish.
How Do I Achieve the Best Texture for My Shrimp?
Getting perfectly cooked shrimp is important for this recipe. The key is to not overcook them! Here are simple tips:
- Pat the shrimp dry before cooking. This helps them sear nicely instead of steaming.
- Cook them until they’re just pink and opaque—usually 2 minutes per side. They will continue to cook a little after you remove them from heat, so don’t wait too long!
- Return the shrimp to the pan only briefly to coat them in the sauce, keeping them juicy and tender.
These steps will help you serve up shrimp that are flavorful and perfectly tender every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe Ready in Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 5-7 minutes to cook. So, you can have a delicious Shrimp Scampi ready in just around 15-20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry using paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season them lightly with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoning enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter together with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re done, carefully remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Create the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Then, pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) and the lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Finish the Dish:
Now, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat them well. Allow them to cook for another minute just to warm through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Serve your shrimp scampi immediately over cooked pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your quick and flavorful Shrimp Scampi!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. To thaw quickly, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for the White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Both will add flavor to the sauce without the alcohol. You can also use a splash of white grape juice mixed with water for a slight sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just serve the shrimp scampi over gluten-free pasta or simply enjoy it with crusty gluten-free bread. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy all the flavors without worries!
