Shrimp Scampi Garlic Butter (Print)

Shrimp sautéed in rich garlic butter sauce, finished with lemon and herbs. Perfect with pasta or crusty bread.

# Components:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 lb (453.59 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off

→ Aromatics

02 - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
03 - 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)

→ Sauce Components

04 - 4 tbsp (56.7 g) unsalted butter
05 - 2 tbsp (29.57 ml) extra virgin olive oil
06 - 1/4 cup (59.15 ml) dry white wine
07 - Juice of 1/2 lemon (approximately 1 tbsp)
08 - 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

11 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
12 - Lemon wedges, for serving

→ Optional Accompaniments

13 - 12 oz (340.2 g) cooked linguine or spaghetti
14 - Crusty bread

# Directions:

01 - Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
02 - Heat the extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
03 - Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Introduce the finely minced garlic and finely chopped shallot (if using). Sauté for approximately 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
04 - Pour in the dry white wine and the fresh lemon juice. Allow the liquid to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, until the sauce has slightly reduced.
05 - Return the seared shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce. Continue to cook for 1 additional minute, just until the shrimp are heated through. Stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
06 - Serve the Shrimp Scampi immediately. It is excellent presented over cooked linguine or spaghetti, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses basic ingredients you probably have on hand
  • Fast enough for a weeknight but worthy of a special occasion
  • Each bite is rich with garlic butter flavor and a fresh citrus pop
02 -
  • High in protein and low in carbs when served without pasta
  • Customizable to different spice and acidity preferences
  • Freezes best when cooled quickly and stored without pasta
03 -
  • Always dry the shrimp thoroughly for caramelization
  • Do not overcrowd the pan or the shrimp will steam instead of searing
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a clean tang that balances the richness