Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to whip up, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that always impresses, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh shrimp creates a delightful flavor that truly warms the heart.

What makes this recipe special is not just its taste but its speedy preparation. In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a meal that feels like a treat. Pair it with pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a deliciously satisfying experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have this dish on the table in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic butter sauce paired with succulent shrimp creates an unforgettable taste sensation.
• Flexible Serving Options: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or even on its own with some crusty sourdough bread for dipping.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and kids alike; it’s hard to resist those juicy shrimp!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the shrimp earlier in the day to save time when you’re ready to cook.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, bringing out the best flavors in your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi. Gather them together so you’re ready to start cooking!

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound wild caught large shrimp with shells
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
• 4 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/3 cup white grape juice or chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or 1/2 lemon)
• 1 tablespoon minced parsley

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking.

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your thing, try using chicken breast or scallops for a different take.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the base: Instead of pasta or rice, serve it over quinoa or polenta for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes if you want more heat, or add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by thawing your shrimp in cool water. Once they’re thawed, remove the shells and devein them. It’s important to rinse and drain them well before transferring them to a small bowl. This step will ensure your dish has clean flavors without any shell bits!

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

In your bowl of shrimp, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil along with half of the minced garlic, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until well coated and let it sit for 20 minutes. This marinating process allows all those delicious flavors to infuse into the shrimp.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your marinated shrimp and garlic mixture evenly spaced out in the pan. Cook them for 1 to 1½ minutes until they begin turning opaque; then flip them over gently. Keep an eye on them as they cook—aim for golden color but avoid browning too much as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Once your shrimp are cooked, transfer them to a plate while we make our sauce! In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and add in the remaining garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then stir in white grape juice (or chicken stock) along with lemon juice. Let this simmer for about five minutes until it thickens slightly; this step deepens all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Return the cooked shrimp back into the skillet along with any juices they’ve released. Stir in that last tablespoon of butter and adjust kosher salt to taste. Sprinkle with minced parsley for freshness! Cook everything together for another minute before serving warm alongside some crusty sourdough bread or over pasta/rice.

Enjoy every delicious bite of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Cooking can be a breeze with a few simple tips to elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp significantly enhances the flavor and texture of your dish. If possible, purchase wild-caught shrimp for a more robust taste.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture. Aim for that perfect pink color and opaque look to keep them juicy and tender.
• Prep ingredients beforehand: Having everything ready to go before you start cooking saves time and stress. This is especially important since the cooking process is quick!
• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasoning during cooking ensures balanced flavors. Always give it a taste before serving, adding salt or lemon as needed.
• Experiment with herbs: While parsley is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to add other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Presenting your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi beautifully not only makes it more appetizing but also elevates the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests who enjoy an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce, garlic bread adds a comforting touch and complements the dish beautifully.
• Steamed asparagus: This vibrant green veggie brings a lovely crunch and pairs well with the flavors of shrimp scampi, providing both color and nutrition.
• Simple mixed greens salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the scampi, adding freshness to your meal.
• Zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, serve your shrimp scampi over zucchini noodles. They’re a great way to enjoy pasta-like textures without the carbs.

By incorporating these serving suggestions and tips into your meal prep, you’re bound to impress family and friends with your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It saves time and ensures you have a delicious meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Freezing

• Allow the shrimp scampi to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 1 month. For best results, divide into single servings.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I make this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe without butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute butter with dairy-free alternatives like margarine or vegan butter for a delicious result without compromising flavor.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping!

How long does it take to prepare this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe?

Prep time is just about 5 minutes, with a quick cook time of around 10 minutes. In total, you can have this delightful dish ready in about 35 minutes!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure you fully thaw your shrimp before cooking for even cooking and flavor absorption.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe! It’s quick, flavorful, and sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite sides or toppings. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!