When you think of a dish that feels like a warm embrace, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is likely at the top of the list. This delightful recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again:
- Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of about 20 minutes, you can whip this up even on your busiest nights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a sauce that’s rich yet refreshing.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish in a beautiful bowl, and it looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredient List
To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Must-Have Equipment
Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:
- Large skillet: A good-quality skillet is key for sautéing the shrimp and garlic evenly.
- Pot for pasta: You’ll need a pot to cook your linguine or spaghetti to the perfect al dente.
- Colander: For draining the pasta once it’s cooked.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right flavor balance.
- Serving spoon: For plating up your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
Step 3: Add the Shrimp
Next, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into the skillet, stirring to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the shrimp and sauce to ensure everything is well-coated. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley for that burst of color and freshness.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavors as you dig into this dish!
Better-for-You Options
If you’re looking to make some adjustments for a healthier version of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, consider these options:
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap out traditional pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options.
- Less Butter: Reduce the amount of butter and replace it with olive oil for a lighter sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for added nutrition.
- Low-Sodium Alternatives: Use low-sodium broth instead of butter for a lighter sauce.
Don’t Do This
To ensure your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they can become rubbery.
- Avoid using pre-cooked shrimp, as they won’t absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Don’t rush the garlic; burnt garlic can ruin the dish.
- Be careful with the salt; the shrimp and pasta can already contain sodium.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dish), follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the shrimp can become rubbery when thawed.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving.
Is there a substitute for shrimp?
If you’re looking for a seafood alternative, scallops or even chicken can work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly!
Similar Recipes
If you’re craving more delicious seafood dishes, you might also enjoy:
Bring It to the Table
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table. Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up that luscious garlic butter sauce, and don’t forget to pour a glass of your favorite white wine. The inviting aroma of garlic and shrimp will fill your kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort.
The beauty of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi lies in its simplicity and elegance. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether for a quick weeknight meal or a special celebration. With its rich flavors and quick preparation time, it’s a go-to recipe that you’ll cherish for years to come. So roll up your sleeves, grab those shrimp, and get ready to impress your taste buds with this incredible dish!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon Juice of
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Next, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into the skillet, stirring to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the shrimp and sauce to ensure everything is well-coated. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley for that burst of color and freshness.
- Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavors as you dig into this dish!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for pasta
- Colander
- Measuring spoons
- Serving spoon
Notes
- For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Reduce butter and replace it with olive oil for a lighter sauce.
- Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
