Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's something magical about the sizzle of shrimp hitting a buttery, garlicky pan. Shrimp Scampi is a dish that fills the kitchen with the rich aroma of garlic, lemon, and herbs in just minutes.

I first learned to make this after a trip to the coast where seafood was a nightly treat. Since then, this easy, elegant recipe has become my go-to for everything from quick weeknight dinners to impromptu dinner parties.

Not only is Shrimp Scampi packed with flavor, but it's also lightning-fast to prepare, family-friendly, and wonderfully budget-conscious.

Let's dive into what makes this dish a keeper!

Why You'll Love This Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to fall head over heels for this effortless seafood classic. Shrimp Scampi checks all the boxes for a perfect meal.

First, it's astonishingly quick. From start to finish, you can have this beauty on your table in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for those chaotic evenings when you need a fast but impressive dish.

Second, it's incredibly easy. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can feel like gourmet chefs.

Third, it's gentle on your wallet. Shrimp often goes on sale, and the rest of the ingredients — garlic, butter, lemon, and pasta — are pantry staples.

Finally, Shrimp Scampi is versatile. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles, and customize the seasoning to suit your taste buds.

You'll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Shrimp Scampi lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient shines, creating a perfectly balanced dish.

Shrimp are the undeniable star here. Look for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw and pat them dry to prevent excess water in the pan.

Butter provides that signature rich, velvety base. Don't skimp here — use high-quality unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the finished dish.

Garlic adds an irresistible aromatic punch. Freshly minced garlic cloves offer the boldest flavor, much more vibrant than pre-minced or jarred varieties.

Lemon juice brightens everything up, cutting through the richness of the butter and shrimp. Freshly squeezed lemon is essential; bottled versions just don't have the same zing.

You might also want to have a trusty large skillet on hand to give the shrimp plenty of room to cook evenly without crowding, ensuring that perfect sear.

How To Make This Shrimp Scampi

Cooking Shrimp Scampi is almost as delightful as eating it. Here's how it comes together.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil if you're serving the scampi over pasta. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, reserving about half a cup of pasta water.

Meanwhile, heat a generous amount of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and beginning to foam, add the garlic. Stir frequently, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds.

Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook without moving for about 2 minutes to get a good sear. Flip and cook the other side until the shrimp are pink and opaque, another 2-3 minutes.

Stir in fresh lemon juice and a splash of the reserved pasta water if using pasta. Toss everything together, letting the sauce slightly thicken and coat the shrimp beautifully.

Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately over your chosen base — pasta, rice, or veggies.

Expect a total time of about 20 minutes from start to finish. Dinner has never been easier or more satisfying!

Storage Options

If you find yourself with leftovers, Shrimp Scampi stores beautifully with just a few simple steps.

Place any remaining shrimp and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

If storing with pasta, add a drizzle of olive oil before sealing the container to keep the noodles from sticking together.

When it's time to reheat, gently warm the shrimp scampi in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving if possible, as shrimp can easily become rubbery when overcooked.

Enjoy your leftovers just as much as the first serving!

Variations and Substitutions

Shrimp Scampi is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to get creative.

Swap the shrimp for scallops or even chunks of firm white fish like cod for a different seafood experience.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you crave a little heat. The spicy kick pairs wonderfully with the buttery, lemony sauce.

For a more decadent version, stir in a splash of white wine before adding the shrimp. It adds a rich, complex depth to the sauce.

If you're avoiding gluten, serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.

Feel free to toss in some cherry tomatoes or baby spinach for a pop of color and extra nutrition.

Once you try the base recipe, you'll have the confidence to experiment and make this Shrimp Scampi your own!

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