So you are craving something buttery, garlicky, and ridiculously fast to make? Yeah, you are in good company.
Let me guess. You want a meal that looks like you tried but does not take over your life. Welcome to my go-to shrimp scampi perfection with garlic butter. It is easy, flavorful, and does not leave your kitchen in total chaos.
Why Shrimp Scampi Deserves A Spot On Your Regular Dinner List
Ever feel like cooking seafood sounds harder than it should be? Shrimp scampi flips that idea around completely. It is quick, impressive, and the sauce practically begs to be soaked up with bread.
Honestly, it is the weeknight dinner winner you will keep coming back to.
I have made this recipe more times than I can count because it checks all the boxes. Got garlic? Butter? Shrimp? Boom. You are halfway there.
What Makes This Shrimp Scampi Recipe So Good
- Fast from fridge to table: Ready in under 25 minutes.
- Garlic butter heaven: The sauce is dangerously addictive.
- Works with pasta or bread: Or both, because why not?
- Minimal cleanup: One pan does the job.
That leftover spaghetti you were about to reheat? You deserve better.
Shrimp scampi might be your new secret weapon.
Choosing The Right Shrimp
You want shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Save yourself the prep headache.
I usually grab large or extra large ones because they cook evenly and look fancier.
Yes, frozen shrimp work fine. Just rinse them under cold water to thaw lazily instead of waiting all day.
Ingredients You Will Need
Nothing fancy, just bold flavors that hit in all the right places.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional but highly encouraged)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread (to serve)
How To Make Shrimp Scampi
Step 1
Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them get that perfect sear instead of steaming into gray sadness.
Step 2
Heat a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium heat until fragrant. Add garlic and red pepper flakes for about a minute until golden. Watch closely because burnt garlic ruins everything fast.
Step 3
Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook two minutes per side until pink and curled like happy little commas.
Step 4
Turn off the heat. Squeeze lemon juice all over and sprinkle chopped parsley. Stir everything to coat the shrimp in that garlicky butter magic.
Step 5
Serve over pasta, spoon onto toasted bread, or eat straight from the pan like a champion.
Tips For Perfect Shrimp Scampi Every Time
- Do not overcook. If they look rubbery, you went too far.
- Extra garlic is always welcome. I double mine when I am feeling brave.
- Add white wine right before the shrimp for extra depth if that is your vibe.
I once made this for a friend who thought it was takeout. I smiled and said nothing. Some secrets are worth keeping.
What To Serve With Shrimp Scampi
Want to make it a full meal? Try these combos.
- Spaghetti: Classic and always good for soaking the sauce.
- Crusty garlic bread: As if there was not enough garlic already. Worth it.
- Simple salad: Keeps things light and fresh.
- A glass of white wine: Because why not?
Common Mistakes To Avoid
I have made enough mistakes to know better now.
- Wet shrimp: They steam instead of sear. Always pat dry.
- Burning the garlic: Watch it like a good season finale.
- Cold butter: Melt it early for a smooth sauce.
- Too little lemon: Go big. It brings the dish to life.
Can You Make This Ahead
You technically can, but it is better fresh. Reheated shrimp get chewy. If you must, store in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of butter.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is flexible. Want it spicy? Add more red pepper. Want it rich? Stir in cream at the end.
I once added sun dried tomatoes for fun, and it was surprisingly amazing.
The Bottom Line
Shrimp scampi is easy, fancy-looking, and always delicious. You do not need fancy skills, just shrimp, garlic, butter, and a little confidence.
The best part is that you look like a pro even if you are still in your pajamas. Total win, right?
Hungry for more quick and delicious ideas? Check out easy pasta recipes and simple seafood dishes for more tasty inspiration.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and avoid steaming.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until garlic is golden but not burnt.
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn pink and curl into a 'C' shape.
- Turn off the heat. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley, then toss well to coat the shrimp in the butter sauce.
- Serve immediately over cooked pasta or spoon onto toasted crusty bread.