Shrimp scampi is that dish that manages to transport you straight to a sun-soaked Italian coast, even if you’re just sitting in your kitchen with one sock on and a rogue noodle stuck to your foot. The moment you sauté garlic in butter, the aroma dances through the air like a happy little elf spreading culinary joy. And when those plump shrimp hit the pan, you can practically hear them singing praises of their buttery bath. This shrimp scampi recipe will make your taste buds do the cha-cha and your heart do a little happy dance. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.

Jump to:
- Ingredients for shrimp scampi recipe
- How to Make shrimp scampi recipe
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for the shrimp scampi recipe?
- How long does it take to make shrimp scampi?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this shrimp scampi recipe?
- What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
- Conclusion for shrimp scampi recipe :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: You’re hosting an impromptu dinner gathering, and everyone’s scrambling around trying to whip up something fancy yet quick. Enter shrimp scampi, your new best friend! With its delightful blend of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Trust me; I once made this for my friends on a Tuesday night (because who doesn’t celebrate Tuesday?) and watched as they devoured every last morsel while complimenting my culinary genius. Little did they know, I was just channeling my inner Italian grandmother!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This shrimp scampi recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or surprise guests.
- Bursting with flavor from garlic and lemon, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.
- The vibrant colors of the shrimp and herbs make it visually appealing on any table setting.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or even fresh crusty bread!
Ingredients for shrimp scampi recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease; fresh or frozen works well.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic packs a punch of flavor that makes this dish sing.
- Unsalted Butter: Butter creates that rich sauce we all crave; don’t skimp on quality here!
- Olive Oil: A splash adds depth; use extra virgin for optimal flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the entire dish.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds color and freshness — plus it looks pretty!
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a delightful kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
For Serving:
- Pasta or Crusty Bread: Serve over spaghetti or with crusty bread for mopping up that glorious sauce. For more inspiration, check out this philly cheesesteak pasta recipe.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make shrimp scampi recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil together until bubbly. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not burnt (nobody likes burnt garlic!).
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—just like turning into a lobster without that awkward beach moment.
Step 3: Make It Zesty
Squeeze in fresh lemon juice over the shrimp while adding red pepper flakes for that little bit of spice. Stir everything together so all those flavors can mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Step 4: Finish with Parsley
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley. It’s like throwing confetti into your dish—everything looks better with some green!
Step 5: Serve It Up
Transfer your delectable shrimp scampi onto plates or toss them over cooked pasta of your choice. Drizzle any leftover sauce generously because we’re not skimping on flavor here!
Step 6: Enjoy!
Garnish with more parsley if you’re feeling fancy and serve immediately with crusty bread or pasta. Watch as your guests dive in; their delight will be music to your ears!
And there you have it! Your fantastic shrimp scampi is ready to impress friends and family alike. Whether it’s date night or simply treating yourself after a long day — this dish will surely elevate any occasion from ordinary to extraordinary!
You Must Know
- This shrimp scampi recipe is not just a delicious dish; it’s a quick fix for those busy weeknights.
- With its buttery garlic sauce and succulent shrimp, you can impress anyone without breaking a sweat.
- Perfect for a romantic dinner or a family feast!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the garlic in butter, then add the shrimp until they turn pink. While that sizzles, cook your pasta. Finally, combine everything with lemon juice and parsley for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the shrimp for scallops or add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can also experiment with different herbs or spice levels to customize your shrimp scampi recipe to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it saucy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect shrimp scampi, use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy.
- Always toss the pasta with the sauce off the heat to avoid sticking.
I once whipped up this shrimp scampi recipe for my parents’ anniversary dinner, and they raved about it all night! My mom even asked for seconds—an absolute win in my book!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for the shrimp scampi recipe?
To prepare a delicious shrimp scampi recipe, you will need fresh shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, white wine, butter, olive oil, and parsley. Additionally, having salt and black pepper on hand helps enhance the dish’s flavor. delicious Bang Bang shrimp tacos For a complete meal, consider serving it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the wonderful sauce. Fresh ingredients elevate the taste of this classic dish, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
How long does it take to make shrimp scampi?
A typical shrimp scampi recipe takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Preparation usually takes around 10 minutes, where you will clean and season your shrimp and chop your garlic and parsley. Cooking the dish itself requires an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This quick cooking time makes shrimp scampi an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests who crave a gourmet meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this shrimp scampi recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp in your shrimp scampi recipe. Just ensure that you thaw them properly before cooking. To do this, place the frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes until they become pliable. Once thawed, pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in your dish. Using frozen shrimp is a convenient option that still allows you to enjoy this delightful seafood meal any time.
What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
When preparing a shrimp scampi recipe, consider pairing it with various sides to create a complete meal. Garlic bread is a popular choice as it complements the sauce perfectly. A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette also works well to balance the richness of the dish. creamy Alfredo sauce If you’re looking for something heartier, serve it over al dente pasta like linguine or spaghetti for an authentic Italian experience.
Conclusion for shrimp scampi recipe :
In conclusion, this easy shrimp scampi recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that can impress anyone at your dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients like fresh shrimp and garlic, you can create a dish that’s both quick and satisfying. tasty penne pasta recipe Remember to pair it with crusty bread or pasta for the complete experience. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to please everyone who loves seafood!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Shrimp scampi is a quick and delicious dish that transports your taste buds to the Italian coast. Featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic and butter sauce, this recipe is brightened with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that flavorful sauce. Experience the joy of cooking with this easy-to-follow recipe that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for about two minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and stir in red pepper flakes for added spice.
- Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately over cooked pasta or with crusty bread, drizzling any remaining sauce on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 220mg