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Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a classic, elegant dish that's quick to prepare yet packed with bold flavors. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with pasta, and finished with a hint of lemon for a zesty kick. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy dinner party.
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Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Tongs
  • Zester or microplane
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

  • For the Shrimp Scampi:
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
  • Salt for boiling water
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
  • Prepare the Shrimp Scampi:
  • Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  • Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
  • Deglaze the skillet with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
  • Combine and Serve:
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
  • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.