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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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4.4 from 149 reviews

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi recipe features wild-caught large shrimp cooked in a flavorful blend of garlic, butter, white wine, and fresh lemon juice. Marinated briefly for enhanced taste, the shrimp are pan-seared to perfection and finished with a luscious buttery sauce and fresh parsley. Ready in 35 minutes, this classic seafood dish serves 4 and makes a perfect, elegant yet simple dinner.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Shrimp and Marinade

  • 1 pound wild caught large shrimp with shells
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Cooking and Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter (divided: 3 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon)
  • 1/3 cup white wine or chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided: 1/2 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon)
  • 1 tablespoon minced parsley

Instructions

  1. Prep the shrimp: Thaw the shrimp in cool water. Remove the shells and devein each shrimp. Discard the shells, rinse the shrimp well, drain thoroughly, then transfer them to a small bowl.
  2. Marinate the shrimp: Drizzle the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, half of the garlic (2 cloves), 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and the red pepper flakes. Toss the shrimp to coat evenly. Let them sit for 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Cook the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and garlic mixture spaced evenly in the pan. Cook for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until the shrimp begin to turn opaque, then flip each shrimp over carefully. Cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing shrimp to turn golden without browning too much. Remove shrimp from skillet to a small bowl or plate. Remove any browned garlic bits as they can turn bitter.
  4. Make the sauce: Melt 3 tablespoons butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic (2 cloves) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the white wine (or chicken stock) and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens and reduces by half, stirring occasionally.
  5. Finish the dish: Return the cooked shrimp along with any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to taste. Sprinkle minced parsley over the top. Stir everything together and cook for 1 more minute until heated through. Serve warm immediately.

Notes

  • Use wild-caught shrimp for best flavor and texture.
  • If white wine is not available, good quality chicken stock works as a substitute for the sauce.
  • Do not overcook shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.
  • For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes according to taste.
  • Serve with crusty bread or over pasta to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American