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Classic Shrimp Scampi with Shells in Garlic White Wine Butter Sauce Recipe

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4.3 from 1 review

Classic Shrimp Scampi features shell-on shrimp cooked gently in a rich garlic, butter, and white wine sauce. The slow infusion of garlic into the butter and olive oil creates a deep, mellow flavor, while the doubled sauce ensures every bite is luscious and satisfying. Perfectly seasoned and finished with fresh parsley and lemon juice, this Italian-inspired dish is elegant, flavorful, and served best with crusty bread to soak up the garlicky goodness.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Fats & Oils

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Aromatics & Seasonings

  • 8 cloves garlic, minced by hand (No garlic press)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (preferably Aleppo pepper)
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Liquids

  • ¾ cup dry white wine
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Main Ingredient

  • 1 ¾ pounds extra-large shrimp, 13/15 count, shells on

Garnish

  • ¼ cup chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the infused butter and oil: Heat 4 tablespoons unsalted butter and 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat until the butter melts. This combination provides a rich base for the sauce.
  2. Infuse the garlic flavor: Add 8 cloves minced garlic to the skillet and cook while stirring frequently for about 5 to 7 minutes, ensuring the garlic softens without browning. This gentle simmer extracts deep garlic flavor into the fats without creating harshness.
  3. Simmer with wine and spices: Increase heat to medium and pour in ¾ cup dry white wine. Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt, a pinch of red pepper flakes (preferably Aleppo pepper), and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle simmer and reduce the wine by half over about 3 minutes to concentrate flavors.
  4. Cook the shrimp: Raise heat to medium and add the 1 ¾ pounds extra-large shrimp with shells on in a single layer. Turn them once or twice, cooking for 2 to 4 minutes total until they just turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking as shrimp quickly become rubbery.
  5. Finish the dish: Remove the skillet from heat, stir in ¼ cup chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten and freshen the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  6. Serve: Plate immediately on warm dishes accompanied by chunky bread to soak up the luscious garlic-butter-wine sauce.

Notes

  • Use shell-on shrimp to preserve moisture and enhance flavor.
  • Simmer garlic gently in the fat to infuse flavor without burning it.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan by cooking shrimp in batches if necessary for even cooking.
  • This recipe is suitable for gluten-free, keto, and low-carb diets.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Mains
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free