Name: Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1½ pounds large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1½ tablespoons lemon juice, plus wedges for serving; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shrimp Scampi is a quick, flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. With tender shrimp, a rich garlic butter sauce, and a hint of lemon, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of savory and tangy. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a breeze to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, pairing it with crusty bread, or enjoying it on its own, this Shrimp Scampi will soon become a family favorite!

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice, plus wedges for serving
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season with ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
Sear the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until just opaque and cooked through. Remove the shrimp to a plate immediately to prevent overcooking.
Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining olive oil and butter to the same skillet. Sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half. Stir in the lemon juice.
Finish: Return the shrimp to the skillet along with any juices from the plate and toss to coat in the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Serve: Spoon the shrimp and sauce over pasta or serve with crusty bread for dipping. Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Shrimp Scampi: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Creamy Shrimp Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the chicken broth for a creamy version.
Vegetable additions: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the skillet for a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

2. Can I use regular butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use regular butter, but be sure to adjust the amount of salt you add to the recipe to avoid it becoming too salty.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served immediately after cooking for the freshest flavors. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and quickly cook the shrimp when you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I make Shrimp Scampi without pasta?

Yes, Shrimp Scampi can be served on its own or with bread for dipping, or you can serve it over rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

5. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so be sure to remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn opaque and no longer translucent. Once removed, the residual heat will continue to cook them slightly, so avoid leaving them in the skillet too long.

6. Can I use other types of shrimp for this recipe?

You can use smaller or larger shrimp if you prefer, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Larger shrimp may require a little longer to cook.

7. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make Shrimp Scampi dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter and omit any dairy-based cream or cheese.

8. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth is a great alternative if you want to keep the dish vegetarian or if you don’t have chicken broth on hand.

9. Can I add Parmesan cheese to the dish?

Yes, grated Parmesan cheese is a wonderful addition to Shrimp Scampi. Sprinkle it over the shrimp and sauce just before serving.

Conclusion

The BEST Shrimp Scampi is a deliciously simple dish that comes together in just 10 minutes. With its garlicky butter sauce, tender shrimp, and bright lemon flavor, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something that feels special. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or enjoy it on its own for a light yet satisfying meal. No matter how you serve it, this Shrimp Scampi is sure to impress!