Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Garlic Butter and Parmesan Sauce

Name: Shrimp Scampi
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: – 2 tablespoons olive oil; – 4 tablespoons butter; – 4 to 5 large garlic cloves minced; – 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic; – 1 1/4 pounds large shrimp, shelled with tails on or off; – A pinch of salt; – Cracked pepper to taste; – 1/4 cup dry white wine or broth; – 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); – 2 tablespoons lemon juice; – 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

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Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi

This shrimp scampi recipe is a go-to for anyone who wants a tasty meal without much fuss. It’s simple to whip up in just 10 minutes, using fresh ingredients like large shrimp and garlic for that amazing flavor. Plus, it’s packed with benefits that make it perfect for busy days or healthy eating goals.

One reason to try this dish is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few basic items like olive oil, butter, and garlic, you can have dinner ready in no time, which helps busy parents and students save time in the kitchen. Another great thing is the health perks, as shrimp provides lean protein that supports muscle health while keeping calories low at about 303 per serving. That makes it a smart choice for folks watching their diet or enjoying a balanced meal.

Beyond that, this recipe shines with its flexibility for different tastes. You can tweak it for vegan options or gluten-free needs, and it pairs well with sides like pasta or veggies. The mix of garlic, lemon, and parsley gives it a bright, fresh taste that’s hard to beat, turning a simple weeknight dinner into something special. For more ideas on seafood dishes, check out our garlic butter steak recipes that go great with seafood meals.

Key Benefits of Shrimp Scampi

Quick cooking time of only 5 minutes prep and 5 minutes cooking.
Loaded with protein from wild-caught shrimp to keep you feeling full.
Low in carbs at just 2 grams per serving, ideal for low-carb diets.
Adds healthy fats from olive oil and butter, supporting heart health.

This dish is not just food, it’s a quick way to bring joy to your table with its vibrant flavors and easy steps.

To learn more about the health benefits of shrimp, check out this helpful resource that explains how it boosts your diet.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi
2. Essential Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Shrimp Scampi: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Shrimp Scampi
5. Mastering Shrimp Scampi: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Shrimp Scampi: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Scampi
8. Shrimp Scampi

Essential Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi

Getting the ingredients right is key to making a great shrimp scampi. This section breaks down everything you need, focusing on fresh, simple items that create that buttery, garlicky sauce. Let’s look at the exact list so you can shop and prepare with ease.

Main Ingredients List

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
4 to 5 large garlic cloves minced (or 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic)
1 1/4 pounds large shrimp, shelled with tails on or off
A pinch of salt
Cracked pepper to taste
1/4 cup dry white wine or broth
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

These ingredients come together to make a dish that’s full of flavor and ready fast. Using a mix of butter and olive oil helps prevent burning while adding that rich taste many love. For special tweaks, like going vegan, swap butter for olive oil and use plant-based shrimp.

Special Dietary Options

For vegan versions: Opt for plant-based shrimp and replace butter with olive oil.
To keep it gluten-free: Stick with gluten-free broth if you’re skipping wine.
For low-calorie adjustments: Cut back on butter or use a spray of olive oil to lighten things up.

Remember, fresh garlic and lemon add not just taste but also vitamins that make this meal even better for you. If you’re exploring more casserole ideas, our chicken taco casserole offers fun twists on easy dinners.

How to Prepare the Perfect Shrimp Scampi: Step-by-Step Guide

Making shrimp scampi at home is straightforward and fun, especially with these clear steps. Start by gathering your ingredients to keep things smooth and quick. This recipe takes about 10 minutes total, so it’s ideal for weeknights.

First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and half of the 4 tablespoons butter in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the 4 to 5 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, which takes 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then, add the 1 1/4 pounds of large shrimp, seasoned with a pinch of salt and cracked pepper, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink.

Next, flip the shrimp over and pour in the 1/4 cup dry white wine or broth. If you like a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes at this point. Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the liquid reduces by half and the shrimp is fully cooked. Finally, stir in the remaining butter, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley, then remove from heat right away.

Serve your shrimp scampi hot with options like rice, pasta, or steamed veggies such as broccoli or zucchini noodles. For the best results, have all items ready before you start, as this keeps the shrimp tender and the flavors bright.

Tips for Even Better Results

Use wild-caught shrimp for a fresher taste and better texture.
Choose a good quality white wine or broth to enhance the sauce.
Watch the heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp, keeping them juicy.

This method ensures you get that perfect garlic butter sauce every time. As you master this, you might try pairing it with dishes like our detailed nutrition facts for balanced meals.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi is versatile, letting you adjust it for various needs without losing its charm. Whether you’re vegan or watching calories, small changes can make a big difference. Let’s explore how to tweak this recipe to fit your lifestyle.

For protein swaps, try scallops or chicken breast in place of shrimp to keep things interesting. If you’re going vegan, plant-based shrimp works great and pairs well with olive oil instead of butter. These options help maintain the dish’s light, flavorful profile while meeting dietary goals.

On the vegetable side, add spinach or asparagus for extra nutrients and color. For seasoning, swap garlic with garlic-infused oil if you want a milder flavor, or add red pepper flakes for some spice. These modifications keep the recipe fresh and adaptable for everyone from students to seniors.

Easy Customizations

Low-calorie: Reduce butter and use more olive oil to cut fat.
Gluten-free: Use broth instead of wine and serve over rice.
Spicy variation: Include crushed red pepper for a kick.

Substitution Type	Option	Why It Works
Protein	Firm tofu	Absorbs flavors well for vegan diets
Seasoning	Smoked paprika	Adds smoky depth without overpowering

These tweaks ensure your shrimp scampi stays delicious and inclusive.

Mastering Shrimp Scampi: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, take your shrimp scampi to the next level with these pro tips. Cooking shrimp just right means paying attention to heat and timing for that perfect tender bite. Experimenting with flavors can turn this simple dish into your signature meal.

To avoid overcrowding the pan, cook in batches for even browning and better taste. Using clarified butter raises the smoke point, helping create a silky sauce that coats the shrimp nicely. For flavor boosts, try adding sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil to mix things up and add complexity.

Presentation matters too serve over zucchini noodles and top with grated Parmesan for a polished look. If you’re prepping ahead, make the sauce first and add shrimp later to keep everything fresh. This approach works wonders for busy professionals juggling meals and work.

Creative Variations

Swap lemon juice for lime for a zesty twist.
Add capers for a briny flavor that complements the garlic.
Use herbs like basil to change up the fresh taste.

With these ideas, your shrimp scampi will impress every time, and it’s a great base for more recipes on our site.

How to Store Shrimp Scampi: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your shrimp scampi tasty and safe for later. Follow these steps to maintain its flavor and texture. Whether you’re refrigerating or freezing, quick action helps preserve the meal.

For short-term storage, put cooked shrimp scampi in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze it, use a sealed bag and store for up to 3 months thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, use low heat on the stove to keep the shrimp from getting tough.

Meal prep tip: Cook shrimp and sauce separately so they stay fresh when you combine them later. This makes it easy for anyone with a packed schedule to enjoy a quick meal. Always reheat gently to keep the garlic and lemon flavors vibrant.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Scampi

What is shrimp scampi and how is it traditionally made?

Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring shrimp cooked in a garlic butter and white wine sauce, often finished with lemon juice and parsley. Traditionally, the shrimp are sautéed quickly in olive oil and butter with minced garlic, then deglazed with white wine. The sauce is then simmered briefly before tossing the shrimp back in. It is commonly served over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

How do you cook shrimp scampi so the shrimp stay tender?

To keep shrimp tender in shrimp scampi, cook them quickly over medium-high heat. Sauté shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking leads to rubbery shrimp, so remove them promptly once cooked. Using fresh or thawed shrimp at room temperature also helps ensure even cooking.

Can shrimp scampi be made gluten-free?

Yes, shrimp scampi can be made gluten-free easily by avoiding traditional pasta. Serve the shrimp and sauce over gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or rice. Most shrimp scampi ingredients like shrimp, garlic, butter, olive oil, lemon, and wine are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to avoid hidden gluten.

What wine is best to use when making shrimp scampi?

A dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay pairs well with shrimp scampi. These wines add acidity and depth without overpowering the dish. If you prefer alcohol-free options, use low-sodium chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice to mimic the acidity and flavor.

How can I make shrimp scampi ahead of time without losing flavor or texture?

To prepare shrimp scampi ahead, cook the shrimp briefly and set aside, then prepare the sauce separately. Combine and reheat gently just before serving to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Store cooked shrimp and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat on low heat and add fresh parsley and lemon juice to refresh flavors.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe with Easy Parmesan Sauce