Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a simple and tasty dish with tender shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s perfect for a quick meal that feels fancy enough to serve to guests.
I like making this dish when I want something warm and bright. The smell of garlic and butter makes my kitchen feel so inviting!
For an easy twist, serve the shrimp over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s simple, quick, and always a hit.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: I use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but jarred minced garlic works well if you’re short on time. Just use about 3-4 cloves or 1-2 teaspoons. Tip: Crushing garlic releases more aroma. Substitute with garlic powder in a pinch, but use less.
Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for control over the salt, but salted butter is fine if you watch your salt. About 4 tablespoons adds richness. For a lighter feel, you can swap part of it with olive oil. Just keep the flavor mellow.
Shrimp: Use peeled, deveined shrimp for quick cooking; fresh is best but frozen works too. Look for 21-25 count for a nice size. Tip: Pat shrimp dry for better searing. You can swap with scallops or chicken for a different protein.
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, about 2 tablespoons. Bottled lemon juice is okay if fresh isn’t available. Adjust to taste—more for extra zing. Lime juice can be a fun alternative.
Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds color and freshness. Use about 2 tablespoons. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro can add a different twist. Always add herbs at the end to keep their bright flavor.
How do I sauté shrimp without overcooking or undercooking?
Sauté shrimp evenly by cooking at medium-high heat. Wait until the pan is hot before adding shrimp. Spread them out so they cook evenly. They only need 2-3 minutes per side until pink and firm, not rubbery.
- Pat the shrimp dry to avoid steaming.
- Cook in batches if needed, so the pan isn’t overcrowded.
- Flip once, and watch for a pink color and opaque center.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Butter & Oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic & Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 10 minutes. Total time: 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. Make Garlic Butter
In the same pan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Combine and Finish
Return shrimp to the pan. Toss with garlic butter. Cook 1-2 minutes to coat. Garnish with parsley and lemon if desired. Serve hot.
