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Quick and Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Quick and Easy Shrimp Scampi recipe features succulent extra-large shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of white wine and fresh lemon juice. It’s a flavorful and simple dish that comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.


Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • 1 pound uncooked extra large (26-30/lb. size) shrimp, thawed and peeled (tails optional)

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Prep the shrimp: If your shrimp is frozen, place it in a colander under cold running water until fully thawed. Devein the shrimp if desired. Prepare all ingredients ahead of time as this recipe cooks quickly.
  2. Melt butter: Heat half of the butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted and hot.
  3. Cook shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1 minute on each side, flipping quickly with tongs to ensure even cooking.
  4. Add garlic and red pepper flakes: Stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and let it bubble and reduce for 2 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
  6. Finish the sauce: Stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Once the butter melts completely, stir to combine and remove the pan from the heat.
  7. Season and serve: Season the shrimp scampi with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use tails-on shrimp for a more elegant presentation, or tails off for easier eating.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute white wine with low-sodium chicken broth.
  • Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.
  • Fresh garlic is essential for robust flavor; avoid garlic powder.