Delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Recipe Overview

If you’re seeking a tantalizing dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, shrimp, and butter, you’re in for a treat with this easy Garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe. This classic Italian-American dish is not only simple to prepare but also elevates any ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. Originating from the coastal regions of Italy, shrimp scampi is beloved for its quick cooking time and unmistakable flavors. The combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and creamy butter results in a dish that’s beloved by seafood aficionados and novices alike. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this homemade Garlic butter shrimp scampi from scratch will leave everyone wanting more!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Ingredients Section

For the Shrimp Scampi

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Possible Ingredient Swaps

• Swap unsalted butter for a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
• Use almond milk or coconut cream to create a creamy sauce if you’re avoiding dairy.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure the white wine or broth is gluten-free.

Equipment List

• Large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Garlic press (optional)
• Serving plate

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by ensuring your shrimp are peeled, deveined, and dried with paper towels. This will help achieve a nice sear. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and become bubbly.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Once the butter is hot, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
4. Add the Shrimp: Gently place the seasoned shrimp in the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over to cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan which will enhance the flavor of the sauce. Allow to simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Add Remaining Butter: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted, creating a rich and glossy sauce.
7. Toss in the Parsley: Finally, add chopped parsley to the pan and toss everything gently to combine.
8. Serve Immediately: Transfer the shrimp scampi to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges and additional parsley. Serve hot over a bed of pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Special Notes

Storing and Reheating: Should you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

Troubleshooting: If the sauce appears too thick during cooking, add an extra tablespoon or two of broth or wine until you reach your desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

• For a gluten-free version, serve the shrimp scampi over gluten-free pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles).
• Make it vegan by substituting shrimp with plant-based seafood options or even sautéed mushrooms as a hearty alternative.
• Enhance the dish with additional ingredients such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or other vegetables of your choice during the cooking process.

Nutritional Information (Optional)

Estimated breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g

Engaging Visual Details

As you prepare this dish, your kitchen will fill with the sensual aroma of sizzling garlic mingling with the rich scent of butter—an inviting prelude to a mouthwatering meal. The shrimp will transform from a translucent hue to an appetizing, rosy pink, while the sauce becomes thick and glossy as it simmers. When plated, the dish should showcase a vibrant contrast of colors: the golden shrimp glistening against the green of the parsley and the bright yellow of the lemon. Consider showcasing the dish with a few images of the preparation stages – such as the shrimp in the skillet and the finished serving, capturing the mouthwatering final product that is too irresistible to pass up.

Conclusion

Ready to indulge in this delightful Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi? This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish in no time. Trust us, once you take that first bite, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! Don’t forget to leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, and feel free to share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!