Description
A quick and flavorful Easy Shrimp Scampi recipe featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic, butter, and white wine sauce, finished with fresh lemon and parsley. Perfect for a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (16–20 count, peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc) or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice, plus wedges for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels. Season evenly with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to ensure balanced flavor.
- Sear the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large non-reactive skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp promptly to a plate to prevent overcooking.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce by half. Stir in the lemon juice for brightness.
- Finish: Return the cooked shrimp along with any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Toss everything to coat the shrimp thoroughly in the flavorful sauce. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or alongside crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges to squeeze over the dish for an extra burst of citrus freshness.
Notes
- Use freshly peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Dry white wine adds depth, but low-sodium chicken broth is a good substitute to reduce alcohol content.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best taste and tender shrimp.
- For spice lovers, increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Leftover scampi can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but is best fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Shrimp Scampi, Garlic Butter Shrimp, Easy Seafood Recipe, Quick Dinner, Italian Dinner
