The first time I sauntered into my kitchen after a long day, all I craved was something that would wrap me in comfort—a dish that was both indulgent and quick to prepare. That’s when I decided to whip up my beloved Creamy Shrimp Scampi. The moment the garlic hit the sizzling oil, the captivating aroma embraced me like a warm hug.
Tossing plump shrimp and al dente pasta in a velvety sauce enriched with butter, cream, and a splash of white wine instantly transformed my evening. It’s funny how a simple recipe can elevate a mundane weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. This dish isn’t just for special occasions; it’s versatile enough to charm friends during a casual gathering or fill the house with delightful scents on a quiet Tuesday.
Join me in delving into this scrumptious recipe that promises ease without sacrificing flavor—a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll cherish making again and again!
Why will you love Creamy Shrimp Scampi?
Indulgent flavors dance together in this delightful dish, making it a standout choice for any night.
Quick preparation means you’ll have a stunning meal ready in just a flash!
Rich and creamy sauce envelops succulent shrimp, ensuring every bite is heavenly.
Versatile enough to pair with your favorite pasta, this recipe suits any pasta lover’s taste.
Perfect for gatherings, it’s a guaranteed hit that will impress your guests, leaving them asking for more!
Elevate your dinner game with this recipe and embrace the joy of cooking with delicious, homemade comfort food.
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Ingredients
Get ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey!
For the Shrimp
• 1 lb large shrimp – make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
• 2 tbsp grapeseed oil – ideal for its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
• 1 tsp onion powder – adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – enhances the garlicky goodness in this creamy shrimp scampi.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – offers a subtle smoky flavor, making the dish more complex.
• 1 tsp Bayou City Lemon Pepper – for a zesty twist that brightens up the flavors.
• 1 tsp Old Bay – a classic seasoning that complements seafood beautifully.
• pinch of salt – use to elevate all the other flavors without overpowering them.
For the Sauce
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter – creates a rich, velvety sauce that envelops the shrimp.
• 4 cloves garlic – use fresh garlic for an irresistible aroma.
• 1 shallot, minced – blends well with the garlic for an aromatic base.
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken stock – a splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – ensures the sauce is luxuriously creamy.
• 1/4 cup parmesan, grated – offers a cheesy flavor that enhances the richness of the dish.
• 2 tbsp lemon juice – brightens the sauce, balancing the creaminess.
• 1 tsp lemon zest – for an extra punch of citrus flavor.
• salt and pepper to taste – adjust for your desired seasoning.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley – adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to your finished dish.
Now that you’re equipped with these essential ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating a magical meal that will make your evenings unforgettable!
How to Make Creamy Shrimp Scampi
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Boil pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta (linguine or spaghetti) according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Season shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels. In a bowl, season them with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Bayou City Lemon Pepper, Old Bay, salt, and pepper for a flavorful kick.
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Cook shrimp: In a large skillet, heat grapeseed oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
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Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add butter, minced shallot, and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure they don’t brown.
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Create sauce: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until the cheese melts, forming a creamy sauce.
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Combine shrimp and pasta: Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the skillet with the creamy sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well-coated and heated through.
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Taste and adjust: Give it a taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired, ensuring every bite is just right!
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Serve and garnish: Transfer your creamy shrimp scampi to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish generously with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top before serving for a cheesy delight.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Shrimp Scampi
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or stock to revive the sauce.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy shrimp scampi in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to avoid separating the sauce. Add a little cream to bring back the creamy texture.
- Avoid Freezing: Note that pasta may become mushy when frozen, so consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta for the best texture.
What to Serve with Creamy Shrimp Scampi?
Indulge in the perfect meal by complementing your dish with delightful sides that enhance your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing, perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce. Each bite will transport you to Italy!
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the shrimp scampi, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Roasted Asparagus: This tender veggie adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of earthiness, complementing the dish without overwhelming it.
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Lemon Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest ties in beautifully with the shrimp’s citrus notes, providing a delightful texture and flavor.
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Chilled White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the wine in the sauce, creating a harmonious sip alongside your meal.
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Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, a sweet ending like chocolate fondue allows for a fun, interactive experience that leaves you and your guests satisfied and smiling.
Choose any of these pairings, and you’re sure to create a memorable dining experience that highlights your delicious creamy shrimp scampi!
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Variations
Customize your dish to suit your cravings and dietary preferences for an even more delightful experience.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute pasta with gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and leave out the Parmesan for a dairy-free delight.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sprinkle cayenne pepper for some heat that balances the creamy richness.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or thyme to the sauce for an aromatic touch that brightens each bite.
- Veggie Boost: Sauté some spinach or cherry tomatoes alongside the shallots for added nutrition and flavor.
- Shrimp Swap: Use scallops or chunks of firm fish like cod instead of shrimp for a fresh twist on this beloved recipe.
- Wine Variation: Experiment with a splash of dry vermouth or a citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to change up the flavor profile.
- Nuts Addition: Stir in toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts at the end for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Get ready to make this dish your own and enjoy the culinary adventure every time!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Shrimp Scampi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and refrigerate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to permeate for an even more delightful dish. Additionally, you can cook the pasta ahead of time; just be sure to drizzle it with a bit of olive oil and refrigerate to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the shrimp and aromatics as directed, add the cream and wine for the sauce, then toss in your pre-cooked pasta, ensuring everything is heated through. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a comforting meal on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Creamy Shrimp Scampi
• Perfect Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are dry before seasoning; moisture can prevent a good sear, resulting in a less flavorful dish.
• Pasta Timing: Cook your pasta slightly under al dente since it will continue to cook in the creamy shrimp scampi sauce for a perfect texture.
• Sauce Secrets: Use a combination of white wine and chicken stock for a richer flavor. If you prefer, skip the wine and add more chicken stock.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you like your sauce thinner, gradually add reserved pasta water until your desired consistency is reached.
• Seasoning Check: Always taste your sauce before serving; freshly ground salt and pepper will enhance the flavors of this creamy shrimp scampi.
Creamy Shrimp Scampi Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, opt for large, fresh shrimp that are firm and pink. Avoid any with dark spots or strong odors as they may be past their prime. Look for shrimp that are labelled as “wild-caught” for superior flavor whenever possible.
How should I store leftover Creamy Shrimp Scampi?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or stock to refresh the sauce’s texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Creamy Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, transfer any leftover creamy shrimp scampi to a sealed, freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. If you choose to freeze it, consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta to maintain the best texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very good question! If your sauce turns out thicker than expected, simply add a little reserved pasta water or even some extra cream to loosen it up gradually. Stir over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!
Are there any dietary considerations for Creamy Shrimp Scampi?
Indeed! If you’re preparing this dish for guests or family members with dietary restrictions, ensure they aren’t allergic to shellfish. For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Absolutely! To avoid overcooking your shrimp, watch them closely while they cook. They only need 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the heat as soon as they reach this point so they remain tender and juicy.
Indulge in Creamy Shrimp Scampi for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta (linguine or spaghetti) according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels. In a bowl, season them with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Bayou City Lemon Pepper, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat grapeseed oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter, minced shallot, and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until the cheese melts.
- Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the skillet with the creamy sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Transfer your creamy shrimp scampi to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish generously with fresh parsley.