Spicy Shrimp Scampi
This Spicy Shrimp Scampi is a weeknight dinner champion, delivering bold flavors in under thirty minutes. Juicy medium shrimp are sautéed in a fragrant blend of olive oil, butter, and minced garlic, then kicked up with white pepper, red pepper flakes, and a dash of cayenne for a gentle heat that lingers without overwhelming. The dish is finished with bright lemon juice, fresh parsley, and a topping of Parmesan and breadcrumbs that gets broiled to a golden, crispy perfection. Served over tender fettuccine or linguine, the creamy, savory sauce clings to every noodle, creating a harmonious balance of richness and spice. It’s an elegant yet effortless meal perfect for date nights or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
Description
This Spicy Shrimp Scampi is a weeknight dinner champion, delivering bold flavors in under thirty minutes. Juicy medium shrimp are sautéed in a fragrant blend of olive oil, butter, and minced garlic, then kicked up with white pepper, red pepper flakes, and a dash of cayenne for a gentle heat that lingers without overwhelming. The dish is finished with bright lemon juice, fresh parsley, and a topping of Parmesan and breadcrumbs that gets broiled to a golden, crispy perfection. Served over tender fettuccine or linguine, the creamy, savory sauce clings to every noodle, creating a harmonious balance of richness and spice. It’s an elegant yet effortless meal perfect for date nights or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 lemon juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 5 Tbsp Italian bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced
- 1 lb fettuccine or linguine, cooked
- to taste salt
Directions
- 1 Melt butter with olive oil in a large sauté pan that is oven-safe and large enough to hold the shrimp in a thin layer.
- 2
When the mixture is hot, add the minced garlic. Toss gently to coat but do not let it burn. Add the white pepper, red pepper flakes, oregano, and cayenne pepper, stirring well to combine.- 3
Cook the garlic for about 3 minutes until fragrant but not brown. Add the shrimp and toss to coat completely with the spiced oil mixture.- 4
Add the lemon juice and continue tossing over the heat. Quickly add the parsley, bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until everything is evenly coated and the shrimp are bright pink and cooked through.- 5
Place the pan under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are lightly golden.- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if necessary. Serve immediately over the cooked pasta, with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top if desired.NoteFor extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon. For a milder dish, reduce the red pepper flakes.
Ensure your sauté pan is oven-safe before placing it under the broiler. Glass or metal pans work best.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
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