Shrimp scampi is a tasty dish featuring juicy shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, often sprinkled with fresh parsley. It’s quick and delicious, making it perfect for a busy night!
Every time I make it, the aroma of garlic fills the air, and I can’t resist having seconds. Pair it with some pasta or nice crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best here for that perfect bite. If you’re short on fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp is a great alternative. Just thaw them properly and pat them dry to avoid watery sauce.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish. You could also use ghee for a dairy-free option, or even coconut oil, if you want a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps to cook the shrimp without burning the butter. If you prefer, you can substitute it with another oil like avocado oil, which has a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but I find fresh really amps up the taste. Just remember that it cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it!
White Wine: This adds depth to the sauce, but you can use chicken broth if you want to skip the alcohol. For a non-alcoholic version, a splash of vinegar mixed with broth would work well.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overdoing It?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they can turn rubbery if overcooked. To get it just right, follow these easy steps:
- Start by heating your pan until it’s hot before adding shrimp; this gives them a nice sear.
- Cook the shrimp in a single layer without moving them around for 2 minutes – the goal is to get a gentle browning.
- Flip them over and cook just until they turn opaque, usually another 1-2 minutes. Remove them as soon as they’re done!
After you remove the shrimp, let the other ingredients simmer briefly if needed. This method keeps the shrimp tender and juicy.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Crusty bread or cooked pasta, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious shrimp scampi takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal to whip up in under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Lightly season them with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat until it’s melted and hot. You want it sizzling!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until they start turning pink. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are opaque and cooked through. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to brown the garlic!
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for 2-3 minutes.
6. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice. Allow the butter to melt completely, creating a glossy sauce.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently with the sauce until well coated. Warm them through for another 1-2 minutes.
8. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Serve:
Serve the shrimp scampi immediately with lemon wedges on the side, along with crusty bread or over cooked pasta to enjoy that delicious buttery garlic sauce!
Enjoy your flavorful shrimp scampi!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, low-sodium chicken broth is a great alternative. You can also use a mix of lemon juice and broth for added acidity and flavor without the alcohol.
How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or even add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic and butter mixture while cooking. Just be careful not to overdo it; you can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it away!
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply rewarm the sauce in the skillet and toss in freshly cooked shrimp or pasta for an easy meal.