Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a fantastic weeknight dinner recipe, ready in minutes. You’ll love how quickly you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. This dish is perfect for a satisfying and easy evening.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen (thawed) large shrimp.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred; you control the salt.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors.
- Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are classic choices.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
- Calories per serving: Approximately 500-600 (without pasta)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, large pot for pasta, tongs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
4. Create the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to combine everything. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
5. Combine and Serve
Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately as a delicious weeknight dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra vegetables.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Serve over rice or with crusty bread instead of pasta.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- What if you don’t have fresh lemon?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for its bright flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but the taste won’t be quite the same.
- Can you make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of traditional linguine.
- Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a mild kick. You can omit them entirely if you prefer no spice.
- How do you know when shrimp is cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque throughout. They will also curl into a loose “C” shape.
- Can you prepare parts of this ahead of time?
You can peel and devein the shrimp and mince the garlic in advance. It’s best to cook the dish fresh for the best texture and flavor.