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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

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A quick and easy garlic butter shrimp scampi recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in about 5 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
  2. Finely mince 4 cloves of fresh garlic or use a garlic press.
  3. Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Melt the butter slowly to avoid burning.
  4. Once butter is melted and bubbling slightly, add minced garlic and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2 minutes on one side until pink and curling at edges. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  6. Squeeze juice of 1 medium lemon over shrimp. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth and simmer for 1 minute to reduce slightly.
  7. Remove pan from heat and sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley over shrimp. Toss gently to combine.
  8. Serve immediately, best enjoyed hot.

Notes

Melt butter slowly to avoid burning garlic. Do not overcook shrimp to keep them tender. Use room temperature shrimp for faster cooking. Optional white wine or chicken broth adds depth. Can substitute coconut oil for butter for dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, shrimp scampi, quick dinner, easy shrimp recipe, seafood, garlic shrimp, butter sauce, weeknight dinner