Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe | Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish

If you’re craving a rich, creamy, and garlicky pasta dish, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi. Combining perfectly cooked shrimp, linguine, and a decadent butter and cream sauce, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your home kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or preparing a weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make dish will satisfy all your pasta cravings. With a little bit of garlic, lemon, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, you can create a dish that is truly spectacular. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and will impress anyone you serve it to. So, let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and get ready for a flavorful meal that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi 🍤

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious creamy shrimp scampi:

For the Pasta and Shrimp:

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (feel free to use your favorite pasta)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (make sure the shrimp are fresh for the best results)
• 3 tablespoons butter (for that creamy, rich flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (to sauté the shrimp and add extra richness)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (this is what brings that garlicky goodness to the dish)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but adds a touch of spice for balance)
• ½ cup dry white wine (or you can substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
• 1 cup heavy cream (this is the base for the creamy sauce)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a savory, cheesy kick)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to brighten up the sauce and give it a fresh, zesty flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a perfect mix of herbs to enhance the flavors)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste (for seasoning the pasta and shrimp)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish to add a pop of color)

These ingredients are easy to find, and once you have them ready, you’ll be just a few steps away from creating an unforgettable meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi 🍝

Now that we have everything prepared, it’s time to cook. Let’s go through the simple steps to create this easy garlic butter shrimp scampi.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add your linguine (or spaghetti) and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the pasta. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to save about ½ cup of pasta water as it will help thin the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the oil and butter are hot, add your peeled and deveined shrimp. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper and cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside for later. This process ensures that the shrimp stay tender and juicy.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it!

Next, pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly. This step is crucial because it enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.

Step 4: Add the Cream & Cheese

Now it’s time to add the creamy goodness! Stir in the heavy cream, followed by the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is smooth and well-combined. The sauce should thicken slightly, turning into a rich, velvety texture.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Then, add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together to coat the pasta and shrimp in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the creamy garlic butter shrimp scampi with freshly chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan cheese. Serve it with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for the perfect meal. Enjoy the balance of flavors in every bite of this mouthwatering dish.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi 🍝

There are many reasons why garlic butter shrimp scampi is a favorite among food lovers. Here are a few:

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that is smooth, rich, and indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner.
• Fresh and Flavorful: With the bright addition of lemon juice and fresh parsley, this dish is both rich and refreshing.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: You don’t need to go out to a fancy restaurant to enjoy delicious shrimp scampi. This recipe allows you to make a gourmet-style meal right in your own kitchen.

The combination of shrimp, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese gives this dish a bold flavor that will satisfy any craving for seafood pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 🦐

Here are some commonly asked questions about this recipe:

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly under cold running water.

2. What can I substitute for the white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. These will still provide a nice depth of flavor without the alcohol.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a bit of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the garlic butter shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Just reheat it gently before adding the shrimp and pasta.

5. What other pasta can I use?

While linguine is traditional for shrimp scampi, you can substitute it with any pasta you like, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.

Conclusion 🍝

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi is the ultimate comfort food that’s both indulgent and flavorful. With its rich, garlicky sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. So grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Happy cooking! 🍤

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