Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: The Easiest Weeknight Dinner!
Looking for a dinner that feels fancy but takes practically no time at all? Say hello to your new favorite weeknight hero: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi! This dish is pure magic—it’s quick, packed with flavor, and so satisfying. Seriously, from prep to plate, you're looking at about 20 minutes. Skip the takeout and impress yourself with this classic!
Why We Love This Recipe
Lightning Fast: Perfect for those busy evenings.
Flavor Bomb: Seriously, the combination of garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon is irresistible.
Versatile: Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or even over zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Let's dive into how to make this deliciousness happen!
Ingredients You'll Need
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4-6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) OR chicken broth
1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons) and zested
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pasta (If Using)
If you're serving the scampi over pasta, get that water boiling! Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant and starting to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are opaque and fully cooked. Overcooked shrimp are rubbery, so keep a close eye on them!
4. Build the Sauce
Pour in the white wine (or broth). Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
5. Combine and Serve
If serving with pasta, add the drained pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything to coat in the luscious sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add a little more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Serve immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Enjoy your amazing, fast, and flavorful meal!
Recipe At a Glance
Pro Tip!
Don't skip the fresh lemon juice and zest! It's what cuts through the richness of the butter and brightens up the entire dish, giving it that signature scampi flavor.