Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe – A Classic Italian Delight Recipe

Introduction

Shrimp scampi is a quick and flavorful Italian classic that combines tender shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, delivering restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1/3 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
• 8 oz linguine pasta (optional, cooked)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If using pasta, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
3. Step 3: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Step 5: Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
6. Step 6: Stir in fresh lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
8. Step 8: Toss with cooked pasta, if using, or serve with crusty bread. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute white wine with a dry vermouth or use seafood stock instead of chicken broth.
• Add a splash of cream at the end for a creamy shrimp scampi variation.
• Garnish with extra lemon zest or grated Parmesan to enhance taste.
• Use fresh shrimp for best texture and flavor, but frozen shrimp works well if thawed properly.

Storage

Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Pasta may absorb sauce over time, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make shrimp scampi without pasta?

Yes, shrimp scampi is delicious served over crusty bread, rice, or even sautéed vegetables if you prefer a low-carb option.

What can I use instead of white wine?

If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth or seafood stock are great substitutes that help maintain the dish’s flavor without alcohol.

Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe – A Classic Italian Delight Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 75 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Easy Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with hints of lemon and white wine. Perfectly paired with linguine pasta or crusty bread, this quick and flavorful recipe is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

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Shrimp Scampi

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1/3 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Optional

• 8 oz linguine pasta (cooked according to package instructions)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta (Optional): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside until ready to toss with the shrimp scampi.
2. Heat Fat: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and melt 2 tablespoons of the butter until foamy and hot.
3. Sauté Garlic and Spice: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
5. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying the flavor.
6. Add Lemon and Butter: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the remaining tablespoon of butter, allowing the sauce to combine and become rich and silky.
7. Finish with Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the chopped parsley to add a fresh, herbal note.
8. Toss and Serve: If using pasta, toss the linguine with the shrimp and sauce until well coated. Serve immediately with crusty bread if desired. Enjoy your classic shrimp scampi!

Notes

• Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
• White wine adds acidity and depth; chicken broth can be substituted if preferred or for non-alcoholic option.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your spice preference or omit completely.
• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
• Serve with a wedge of lemon and extra parsley for garnish.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: shrimp scampi, Italian shrimp recipe, seafood pasta, easy shrimp dinner, garlic butter shrimp