Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is a fast, flavorful dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes. Jumbo shrimp are pan-seared in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, brightened with lemon juice and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant last-minute meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or basil, cilantro, or tarragon)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Aromatics
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
- Stir in the lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter
- Toss everything together to coat
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
FAQs
- Is fresh shrimp or frozen shrimp better?
Fresh is ideal if you’re near the coast, but high-quality wild-caught frozen shrimp are just as good and often more convenient. - How do you thaw frozen shrimp quickly?
Place the shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them for about 5 minutes, tossing occasionally until fully thawed. - Can I use smaller shrimp instead?
Yes! Just reduce the cooking time by a minute or two, as smaller shrimp cook even faster than jumbo ones.
