Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter
Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is a simple, flavorful dish that feels special any night of the week. The shrimp are cooked just right, tender and juicy, then coated in…
Tip: save now, cook later.Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter is a simple, flavorful dish that feels special any night of the week. The shrimp are cooked just right, tender and juicy, then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s both buttery and bright with a touch of lemon. You’ll notice how the garlic really shines, giving this dish a delicious, comforting aroma and taste.
I love making this recipe when I want something quick to whip up but still feel like I’m having a treat. One tip I have is to use fresh garlic and a bit of fresh parsley on top—it really lifts the flavors and makes the dish taste fresh and lively. I always find that the butter helps the shrimp stay silky and gives the sauce a nice texture that coats every bite perfectly.
My favorite way to enjoy Shrimp Scampi is over a bed of pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up all that wonderful garlic butter. It’s a dish that brings people together and makes dinner feel bright and happy. Plus, it’s so easy to make that it’s become a go-to for me when I want a fuss-free but delicious meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well here; just thaw frozen shrimp fully. Choose large shrimp for a nice bite. If avoiding shellfish, scallops or chicken breast can be a tasty swap.
Butter and Olive Oil: Butter gives richness, while olive oil helps prevent burning. If dairy-free, try vegan butter or extra olive oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that strong, fragrant flavor. Mince it finely so it infuses the butter well. Garlic powder won’t give the same fresh punch.
White Wine or Chicken Broth: Wine adds brightness and depth. If you prefer no alcohol, chicken broth or even a splash of lemon juice works nicely.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Lemon balances the richness and adds freshness. I always add zest for an extra lift—it brightens up the dish beautifully.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, basil or cilantro can add a different, but nice touch.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Shrimp cook fast and can get rubbery if left too long. Here’s my simple approach to get them tender and juicy:
- Start with dry shrimp: pat them dry to help them sear instead of steam.
- Cook shrimp in a hot skillet with butter and oil for about 2 minutes on the first side without moving them.
- Flip once, add garlic right after flipping to avoid burning it, and cook shrimp for another 1-2 minutes.
- Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl (not too tight!).
- Remember residual heat will keep cooking them briefly after you remove from heat—so don’t wait for them to be fully cooked in the pan.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – A wide pan helps cook shrimp evenly and gives space to make the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Perfect for stirring garlic and shrimp gently without scratching the pan.
- Small bowl – Handy for mixing lemon juice and zest before adding to the pan.
- Tongs – Great for flipping shrimp easily and checking doneness without breaking them.
- Measuring spoons and cups – To get the butter, olive oil, and seasonings just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color that pairs well with the garlic butter.
- Swap shrimp with scallops or firm white fish for a seafood twist that cooks just as fast.
- Stir in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat if you like it spicy.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top at the end for a creamy, savory touch.
How to Make Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra brightness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shrimp Scampi takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to whip up, with most of the time spent sautéing shrimp and making the flavorful garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a fast yet impressive meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels, then sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. This helps them cook nicely and get a good sear.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook without moving for about 2 minutes until they turn pink on one side.
3. Add Garlic and Flip Shrimp:
Flip the shrimp over and immediately add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring the garlic gently so it doesn’t burn, until the shrimp are fully pink and opaque.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Use a spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the pan—they add wonderful flavor. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Finish with Butter and Herbs:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the lemon zest if you have it. Swirl your pan to melt the butter and create a silky, rich sauce. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp and toss to combine.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Taste your shrimp and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you like. Serve the shrimp scampi hot over cooked pasta or with crusty bread—perfect for soaking up all that garlicky butter sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for Shrimp Scampi?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry well to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great substitute that keeps the flavor light. You can also use vegetable broth or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
How Do I Prevent Garlic from Burning?
To avoid burnt garlic, add it after flipping the shrimp and cook it only for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously. Cooking garlic on medium heat and watching closely helps keep it flavorful without bitterness.
Can I Make Shrimp Scampi Ahead of Time?
You can cook the sauce and shrimp ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra butter or lemon juice to refresh the sauce before serving.