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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a fast and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce. Perfect served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/3 cup white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (or crusty bread for serving)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
  5. Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Add lemon juice and remaining butter. Stir to combine and reduce slightly.
  7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat. Add cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water if using.
  8. Top with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
  • Chicken broth can replace wine for an alcohol-free option.
  • Don’t overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery when overdone.
  • Add lemon zest or veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
  • Leftovers should be eaten within 2 days for best texture.

Nutrition