Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Enjoy this easy shrimp scampi recipe, a restaurant-quality dish made in just 15 minutes! Juicy, garlic butter shrimp are cooked in a savory white wine sauce with fresh parsley and lemon for the perfect balance of flavor. Serve this classic Italian seafood dish over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for an irresistible meal. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for entertaining, this buttery shrimp scampi is the ultimate crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, raw, peeled & deveined
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground paprika
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (or canola oil)

For the Sauce:

• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 Tbsp dry white wine
• 3 Tbsp chicken broth
• 3 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 lemon, for squeezing over finished dish

Instructions

Cooking the Shrimp:

1. In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over the shrimp and toss to coat.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil.
3. Once the oil is hot, add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and cover to keep warm.

Making the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
3. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.

Combining Everything:

1. Return the shrimp to the skillet and add chopped parsley.
2. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, tossing gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
3. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

---

Tips

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, raw shrimp have the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overcooked. Look for them to turn pink and curl slightly.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer more sauce, add an extra tablespoon of broth or wine.
• Use High-Quality Butter: A rich, creamy butter enhances the flavor of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Alcohol-Free Version: Swap the white wine for extra chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.
• Add Pasta: Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked linguine or spaghetti for a delicious shrimp scampi pasta.
• Extra Garlic Flavor: If you love garlic, add an extra clove for a bolder taste.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based butter alternative.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

What’s the best white wine to use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best for shrimp scampi.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Shrimp is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it before adding the shrimp.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve shrimp scampi over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced plate.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine to complement the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Restaurant-Quality: Tastes just like an Italian seafood restaurant dish but made at home.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with bread for different meal options.
• Light Yet Flavorful: The perfect balance of garlic, butter, lemon, and fresh herbs.

Enjoy your homemade shrimp scampi!