Here’s a quick, buttery, and flavorful recipe for Cast Iron Shrimp Scampi — cooked hot and fast in a skillet for maximum flavor and perfectly juicy shrimp. It’s restaurant-quality and ready in under 20 minutes!
🍤 Cast Iron Shrimp Scampi
🍽️ Serves: 4
⏱️ Ready in: 15–20 minutes
🔥 One-skillet meal
✅ Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
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Juice of 1 lemon (plus lemon zest for garnish, optional)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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Optional: ½ lb cooked linguine, spaghetti, or crusty bread for serving
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prep Shrimp:
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Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Cast Iron Skillet:
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Place over medium-high heat and add olive oil + 1 tbsp butter.
3. Sear the Shrimp:
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Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side, until just pink and opaque.
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Remove from skillet and set aside (don’t overcook!).
4. Make the Scampi Sauce:
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Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the skillet.
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Add garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown).
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Stir in red pepper flakes and white wine (or broth).
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Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Add Lemon + Shrimp Back In:
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Add lemon juice and return shrimp to the pan.
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Toss to coat in the sauce and heat through, about 1 more minute.
6. Finish & Serve:
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Sprinkle with chopped parsley and lemon zest.
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Serve over pasta, rice, or with toasted crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
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Over linguine, angel hair, or zucchini noodles
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With garlic bread or crusty sourdough
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As a protein topper for risotto, mashed potatoes, or salads
💡 Pro Tips:
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Use wild-caught shrimp for best flavor and texture.
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Don’t walk away — shrimp cook fast!
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No wine? Use chicken broth + a splash of lemon juice.