Looking for a quick and tasty meal that impresses? Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is your answer! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that bursts with flavor in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or a special date night, this easy recipe will surely delight. Join me as I share the step-by-step process to create this mouthwatering dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients
To make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, gather these key ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a rich and tasty dish. The shrimp brings a sweet, juicy bite. Garlic adds a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. Butter creates a silky sauce. Lemon brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing twist. Red pepper flakes give a hint of heat, while chicken broth and cream create a creamy base.
Using fresh parsley not only adds color but also a touch of freshness. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Finally, the pasta acts as the perfect vessel, soaking up the delicious sauce. With these ingredients, you’re set to impress anyone at your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta
To cook the pasta, boil a large pot of salted water. Add 8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta but save 1 cup of the pasta water for later.
Prepare the Shrimp
Next, prepare the shrimp. Take 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step makes a big difference in flavor. Make sure every shrimp gets coated well.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Now it’s time to make the garlic butter sauce. In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté these for about 1 minute until they smell great. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should smell sweet, not bitter.
Then, increase the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Stir frequently to cook them evenly.
Combine and Finish
After the shrimp are cooked, it’s time to combine everything. Pour in ½ cup of low-sodium chicken broth and ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir this mixture well and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. This helps the sauce to thicken slightly.
Next, stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Use tongs to toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the garlic butter sauce.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for the perfect finish.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce
To get the best garlic butter sauce, start with the right heat. Use medium heat to melt the butter. When you add garlic, stir it quickly. If it burns, the flavor goes bad. Take it off the heat right before it turns brown.
For the sauce’s thickness, you can adjust it easily. If it feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. This makes it creamy without being heavy. Stir well to mix everything.
Shrimp Cooking Tips
How can you know when shrimp are done? Look for a bright pink color. They will curl slightly too. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Avoid cooking them too long or they will get rubbery.
To keep shrimp nice and tender, do not overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches if needed. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
Serving Suggestions
What should you serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi? A light salad pairs well. You can also serve garlic bread for a tasty side. Both add a nice touch to your meal.
For drinks, a crisp white wine works best. Try a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines match the flavors and enhance the meal. Enjoy!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to switch things up, consider using chicken or scallops instead of shrimp. Both options cook quickly and soak up flavor well. For a vegan twist, you can make the sauce using plant-based butter and coconut cream. This will give you a creamy texture without dairy.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding vegetables can boost your dish’s nutrition and taste. Try tossing in fresh spinach or diced tomatoes. They add color and a burst of freshness. You can also experiment with spices and herbs. A pinch of oregano or some fresh basil can elevate the dish even more.
Pasta Alternatives
While linguine or spaghetti is classic, other pasta types work well. You could use fettuccine or penne for a different shape. If you prefer gluten-free options, look for rice or chickpea pasta. They provide good texture and taste, allowing everyone to enjoy this meal.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers properly, let the shrimp scampi cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. This way, you keep the flavor fresh. The dish lasts about 3 days in the fridge. Always check for any off smells before eating.
Freezing Techniques
You can freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, but it’s best to separate the shrimp from the pasta. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. It stays good for about 2 months. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Reusing Leftovers
Get creative with leftover shrimp scampi! You can make a shrimp salad by mixing it with greens. Another idea is to use it in tacos with fresh toppings. You can even add it to a frittata for breakfast. The options are endless!
FAQs
What is Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi?
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a classic dish from Italy. The name “scampi” refers to a type of shrimp. This dish combines shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce. It often includes lemon, herbs, and pasta. Many people enjoy it for its bold flavors and quick prep time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare parts of the dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and store it in the fridge. You can also season the shrimp and make the garlic butter sauce early. When ready to eat, just reheat the shrimp and sauce in a pan. Add the pasta and enjoy!
How do I make a low-calorie version?
To make a low-calorie version, use less butter and cream. You can replace heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based option. Use a smaller portion of pasta and add more vegetables. This way, you keep the taste while reducing calories.
Is shrimp scampi spicy?
Shrimp scampi can be spicy, but it depends on your taste. The red pepper flakes in the recipe add heat. You can adjust the amount or leave them out. For a milder dish, skip the red pepper or use just a pinch.
You can create a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi using simple ingredients and clear steps. We explored all the key parts, from preparing the pasta and shrimp to making the rich garlic butter sauce. I shared tips to avoid common pitfalls, like burning the garlic or overcooking the shrimp. You also learned ways to store leftovers and even switch up ingredients. Don’t hesitate to get creative with this dish and enjoy every bite! Cooking can be fun and rewarding when you follow these easy steps.
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