Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: 5-Star Dinner Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms any ordinary evening into a delightful culinary adventure. This classic Italian dish combines juicy shrimp with a rich buttery garlic sauce and tender pasta, making it the perfect choice for a quick dinner or a romantic evening. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

This garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Second, the flavor profile is extraordinary; the rich garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. Additionally, this dish is versatile; you can serve it over various types of pasta or even on its own for a lighter meal. You can easily customize it with herbs and spices, making it a healthy garlic butter shrimp recipe that fits various dietary preferences. Lastly, it’s a simple garlic butter shrimp dish that looks impressive on any dinner table, elevating your dining experience without the fuss.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Gather these items:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 oz pasta (linguine or spaghetti)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in white wine and lemon zest; simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce.

Step 4: Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
Step 5: Return shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss well.
Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque, usually around 2-3 minutes per side.

For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Adjust the level of garlic and spice according to your taste preference.
Pair this dish with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Here are a few ideas:

Serve over a bed of fresh garlic butter shrimp pasta for a hearty meal.

Pair with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch.
For a lighter option, serve as a garlic butter shrimp appetizer on skewers.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

To store your garlic butter shrimp scampi, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or white wine to help rejuvenate the sauce. This is a quick garlic butter shrimp meal that makes for excellent leftovers!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?

The secret lies in the timing; ensuring the shrimp are cooked just right and the garlic is fragrant but not burnt is crucial. This balance enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge. Just cook the shrimp and pasta before serving for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?

Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Also, don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s essential for achieving that silky sauce.

Variations of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi You Can Try

Here are some creative twists:

Add lemon juice for a brighter flavor in your garlic butter shrimp with lemon.
Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness.
For a spicy kick, toss in more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Experiment with different types of pasta or even serve it over rice for a unique spin on this classic dish.

For more information on cooking techniques, check out this cooking techniques guide. If you’re interested in the health benefits of shrimp, visit Healthline’s article on shrimp benefits. Also, learn more about my culinary journey to discover how I developed my passion for cooking.

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