This Shrimp Scampi is quick, tasty, and perfect for a busy night! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a garlic butter sauce and served over pasta. Yum!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip this up in just 20 minutes. It’s my go-to when I need dinner fast. Just don’t forget the bread to mop up that delicious sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Linguine is great for shrimp scampi because its flat shape holds the sauce well. If you can’t find linguine, spaghetti works just as well. You can even use gluten-free pasta if needed, but adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.
Shrimp: Medium shrimp is my go-to for this dish. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp is a great option too! Just make sure they’re thawed and drained before cooking. For those who prefer it, you can also use scallops for a different flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your dish. If you’re looking to be healthier or want to avoid dairy, olive oil can be a tasty substitute. It may give a slightly different flavor, but it still tastes delicious.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds depth, but feel free to swap it with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. If you don’t have either, vegetable broth or even a splash of lemon juice can suffice. I prefer using a wine that I would also drink!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish wonderfully. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but you miss out on that fresh zest. I always opt for fresh if possible!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s pretty simple once you get the timing right. The goal is to get them perfectly cooked without becoming rubbery. Here’s how:
- Start with prepped shrimp, peeled and deveined. Make sure they’re patted dry.
- Heat the butter and sauté the garlic first, then add shrimp. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Keep an eye on their color. If they start turning white, they’re overcooked!
Shrimp Scampi Ready in 20 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Shrimp Scampi recipe takes about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and another 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights or when you want something tasty in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the linguine or spaghetti. Follow the package instructions for cooking time. When the pasta is ready, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the rest. Set the drained pasta aside in a colander.
2. Melt the Butter:
In the same pot you cooked the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. This is where the magic happens!
4. Add Wine and Lemon Juice:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and the juice from your lemon. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Let the mixture simmer for about 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Toss in the Pasta:
Return the drained pasta to the pot with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the delicious butter and lemon sauce. If the dish looks a little dry, just add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Final Touches:
Mix in the lemon zest and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color. Taste your dish and sprinkle in more salt and pepper if needed. It’s all about making it perfect for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to serve! Dish out your Shrimp Scampi and garnish with lemon slices and extra parsley if you like. Enjoy your flavorful meal, ready in just 20 minutes!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the pot to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Dry White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. It adds flavor while keeping the dish light. You can also use vegetable broth or even a splash of white grape juice mixed with a little vinegar for a similar effect!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. Avoid reheating too quickly to keep the shrimp tender.
Can I Make This Dish Without Pasta?
Yes, you can! If you want to keep it low-carb, serve the shrimp scampi over steamed veggies like zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or even over a bed of salad greens. The sauce will still shine through beautifully!
