Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe featuring plump shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of white wine and fresh lemon, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp (large, peeled and deveined, 16-20 count)
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (crushed)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp very dry using paper towels to ensure a good sear, then season lightly with salt on both sides to enhance their natural flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of the butter, allowing the butter to melt and the pan to become hot for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp in a single layer to the hot skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Immediately transfer the shrimp to a plate to prevent overcooking.
- Make the Sauce Base: Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic brown and become bitter.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the red pepper flakes, white wine, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so it can reduce slightly and deepen in flavor.
- Toss Shrimp in Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate back into the skillet. Toss gently for about 1 minute to coat the shrimp evenly with the flavorful sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust salt as needed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the shrimp for brightness and garnish, then serve the shrimp scampi immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Ensure the shrimp are very dry before cooking to achieve a better sear and prevent steaming.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh lemons for the best bright citrus flavor.