Bright, buttery, and kissed with garlic, Classic Shrimp Scampi is a timeless seafood dish that brings elegance to the table without demanding hours in the kitchen. It has a rich, lemony-garlic sauce that coats tender shrimp, perfect for serving over a bed of pasta or with crusty bread to sop up every last drop.
This dish is a weeknight favorite turned dinner party hero. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor, and the quick cook time means you can go from prep to plate in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for two or a table full of guests, this is one recipe you’ll return to often.
Ingredients for this Classic Shrimp Scampi
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus wedges for serving)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread (for serving)
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking just until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to brown it.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour the wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice. Once the butter melts, return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat through for another minute.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp. Serve immediately with pasta or bread, and garnish with lemon wedges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this dish without wine?
You can substitute dry white wine with chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor without alcohol.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What pasta pairs best with shrimp scampi?
Linguine, angel hair, or spaghetti are excellent choices as they soak up the sauce well.
Is this recipe spicy?
Only slightly, due to the red pepper flakes. You can omit them for a milder flavor.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes are popular add-ins.
What’s the best way to devein shrimp?
Make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark vein using the tip of a knife or a toothpick.
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