Picture this: a plate of succulent shrimp bathed in a garlicky, buttery sauce, brightened by a squeeze of lemon, and garnished with fresh parsley. It’s pure comfort with a touch of elegance. That’s exactly what this Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe delivers. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or a show-stopping dish for guests, shrimp scampi is always a hit.

This quick and flavorful recipe is surprisingly easy to make, yet it feels like a meal from your favorite Italian restaurant. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes.

What is Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish featuring shrimp cooked in a rich sauce of butter, garlic, and white wine or broth. Often served over pasta or alongside crusty bread, its simplicity is what makes it so special. The sauce is light yet decadent, perfectly complementing the tender shrimp.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or even on its own as a light main dish.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family or guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or add your own twist to make it your own.

Ingredients for Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Ingredient Notes

• Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
• White Wine: Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the best flavor. Chicken broth works well as a non-alcoholic substitute.
• Butter and Olive Oil: Combining these fats adds richness and helps prevent the butter from burning.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.

2. Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Deglaze the Skillet

Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly and concentrate the flavors.

4. Finish the Sauce

Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly.

5. Serve Immediately

Transfer the shrimp scampi to plates or a serving dish. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Scampi

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so watch them closely and remove them as soon as they’re pink and opaque.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Customize the Heat: Red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, but feel free to adjust or omit them to suit your preference.
• Choose the Right Wine: If you’re using wine, select a dry variety that you enjoy drinking. Avoid sweet wines, as they can overpower the dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fat	22g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	600mg

Serving Suggestions

• Over Pasta: Classic shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine.
• With Crusty Bread: Use a slice of fresh bread to mop up the garlicky, buttery sauce.
• On Its Own: For a low-carb option, serve shrimp scampi with a side of steamed vegetables or zoodles (zucchini noodles).
• Add a Salad: Complement the dish with a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

FAQs About Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just ensure you thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

2. What’s the best wine for shrimp scampi?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best. Avoid sweet wines for this savory dish.

3. Can I make shrimp scampi without wine?

Absolutely! Substitute the wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus make excellent additions to shrimp scampi.

6. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

• Foolproof: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers excellent results.
• Elegant Yet Simple: It’s impressive enough for a dinner party but quick enough for a weeknight meal.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and parsley creates a sauce that’s both indulgent and refreshing.

Conclusion

This Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary dishes. With its rich, garlicky sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is elegant. Whether you serve it over pasta, with bread, or on its own, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So grab your skillet and get cooking—you’re just 20 minutes away from a restaurant-quality meal at home. Bon appétit!

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