Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a delightful, simple dinner recipe that brings elegance to your table without the fuss. This dish is perfect when you need a quick, flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the seasoning.
- Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti are traditional, but any long pasta works.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools: Large skillet, large pot
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook Your Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
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). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Create the Scampi Sauce
Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the lemon juice.
5. Combine and Finish
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Return the shrimp to the pan. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to create a glossy sauce. Stir in the fresh parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- Stir in some baby spinach at the end to wilt into the sauce.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
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 as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
- What if I don’t have fresh lemon? Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh lemon provides a much brighter flavor.
- Is this a good simple dinner recipe for meal prep? While delicious, shrimp can become tough when reheated multiple times, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Can I use chicken instead of shrimp? You can, but the cooking time will be longer and the flavor profile will change significantly.
- How do I know when the shrimp are cooked? Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink and opaque, curling into a “C” shape.
- What if my sauce is too thin? Add a bit more reserved pasta water, which contains starch that helps thicken the sauce.
