Go Back

Garlic Shrimp Scampi Made Easy: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Norah Kay
This Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a quick, flavorful weeknight meal that combines tender shrimp, rich butter, garlic, and a hint of lemon. It’s a restaurant-quality dish ready in just 20 minutes and perfect for pasta lovers.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Equipment and Appliances
  • Large skillet
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Garlic press (optional)
  • Citrus juicer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4-5 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Pasta of choice such as linguine or angel hair, cooked according to package instructions

Instructions
 

  • Instructions
  • Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Sauté the Garlic: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
  • Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  • Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow it to reduce for 2-3 minutes.
  • Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, add lemon juice and parsley, and toss to coat. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired sauce consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish and Serve: Top with more parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor, if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: ~420
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 190mg
  • Sodium: 600mg

Notes

Tips for Success
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp to ensure they don’t become rubbery; they should turn pink and opaque quickly.
Pasta Water Magic: Use reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.
Wine Alternative: If you prefer not to cook with wine, substitute with chicken broth.
This recipe card is designed to provide everything your readers need for a successful, delicious meal, while also giving room for potential affiliate links on recommended ingredients and tools. Enjoy!
Keyword easy scampi recipe, Garlic Shrimp Scampi, quick shrimp recipes, weeknight seafood dinner