What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This shrimp scampi recipe is a game-changer for quick, flavorful meals that feel fancy without the fuss. You’ll love how simple the steps are, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. The garlicky, buttery sauce is rich and satisfying, coating every bite with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop. It’s a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy, guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Recipe
Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add shrimp, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add white wine (or broth) and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add parsley and mix well.
- Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Notes:
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Pot for boiling pasta
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian-American
Serving:
Serves 4
Nutrition
Shrimp scampi is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines succulent shrimp with flavorful ingredients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a typical serving:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving
— | —
Calories | 320
Total Fat | 15g
Saturated Fat | 7g
Cholesterol | 210mg
Sodium | 880mg
Carbohydrates | 15g
Fiber | 1g
Sugar | 1g
Protein | 28g
What To Serve With It
I love pairing shrimp scampi with pasta, like linguine or angel hair, because it soaks up the garlicky butter sauce perfectly. For sides, I often go with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted asparagus to balance the richness. A slice of crusty bread on the side is also a must for scooping up every last bit of flavor!
Pasta Pairings
When pairing pasta with shrimp scampi, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choice, but I’ve found that a few options really shine. Linguine’s flat shape holds onto the garlicky butter sauce perfectly, while angel hair cooks quickly and lets the shrimp take center stage. If you prefer a heartier bite, fettuccine adds a satisfying chew. For a twist, try spaghetti—it’s classic for a reason. Just remember to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy under the rich sauce. A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up, making each forkful irresistible.
Side Dish Ideas
If you’ve got shrimp scampi on the menu, you’ll want sides that complement its rich, garlicky flavor without stealing the show. I love serving it with a light, crisp Caesar salad—its tangy dressing balances the dish perfectly. Garlic bread is another go-to; it soaks up the delicious sauce without overpowering the shrimp. A side of steamed asparagus or roasted green beans adds a fresh, veggie crunch. For something heartier, try creamy polenta or a simple risotto. I’ve also found that a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes the meal feel extra special. Enjoy!
