There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a home-cooked meal, especially when it comes together in just 30 minutes. Picture this: the bright, zesty aroma of garlic and lemon filling your kitchen, mingling with the seductive scent of shrimp sizzling away in a hot skillet. That’s the magic of Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi. This recipe is not just about indulging your taste buds; it’s about crafting a dish that brings friends and family together around the dinner table.
I discovered this delightful gem while searching for a way to shake up my weeknight routine, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this scrumptious meal, featuring perfectly tender shrimp tossed with al dente pasta, speaks to both lovers of seafood and those looking to impress at their next gathering. Plus, with its adaptable ingredients, it caters to dietary preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this starter that’s destined to become a regular on your menu!
Why is Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious seafood dish that rivals restaurant fare.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily adapt the recipe to suit gluten-free diets by swapping pasta for zucchini noodles.
Flavor Explosion: The zesty combination of garlic, lemon, and shrimp creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it up, and you’ll have your guests raving about your culinary skills!
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish appeals to seafood lovers and novices alike, making it a fantastic choice for any dinner party.
Experience the joy of cooking with this delightful recipe!
Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp – Fresh or properly thawed shrimp is essential; opt for wild-caught for the best flavor.
For the Pasta
- Linguine or Spaghetti – Serves as the comforting base; can be swapped for gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini noodles.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and depth; you can replace it all with olive oil for a lighter sauce.
- Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and helps cook the shrimp; avocado oil works great as a substitute for a different taste.
- Garlic – Essential for an aromatic foundation; minced garlic or garlic powder may also be used.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a kick of heat; adjust to your spice preference, or use fresh chili for extra zing.
- Lemon – Provides brightness and acidity; lime juice can be a nice twist if desired.
- Chicken Broth – Offers a savory backdrop; vegetable broth is a lighter vegetarian alternative.
- Fresh Parsley – A garnish that brings fresh flavor; feel free to use dried parsley, but reduce the amount.
With these key elements ready, you’re just moments away from savoring a mouth-watering batch of Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi!
How to Make Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi
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Cook Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add 8 oz of linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining!
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Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil and 2 tbsp of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of large shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Once done, carefully remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the remaining olive oil and butter. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, along with the zest. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting it reduce slightly for that rich, savory flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Bring back the shrimp and add the drained pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in that luscious sauce. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water, allowing it to reach your desired sauce consistency.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in freshly chopped parsley, mixing well. Plate the dish immediately, garnishing with additional parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with crunchy garlic bread and a light lemon vinaigrette salad for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi Variations
Let your creativity shine as you customize this flavorful dish to fit your preferences and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free options or spiralized zucchini noodles for a light, refreshing take.
- Heat Level: Increase the heat by adding diced fresh chili or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for a rich and decadent variation.
- Veggie Boost: Add cherry tomatoes or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs by substituting parsley with fresh basil or adding a touch of dill for a unique aromatic flavor.
- Citrus Swap: Swap lemon for lime or even orange zest to add a different citrus profile that brightens the dish.
- Wine Flair: Consider a splash of white wine in the sauce for added depth; allow it to simmer off for the perfect flavor balance.
- Parmesan Sprinkling: Finish your dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Embrace these variations and make this Shrimp Scampi truly your own!
Make Ahead Options
Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to simplify your cooking on busy weeknights. You can prepare the shrimp and sauce up to 24 hours in advance by cooking the shrimp just until pink, then storing them in an airtight container with the sauce to maintain flavor and moisture. For the pasta, cook and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply gently reheat the shrimp and sauce on the stovetop, add the cooked pasta, and toss everything together for delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. This way, your loved ones can enjoy a vibrant homemade meal without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to cool the shrimp scampi before sealing to preserve its fresh flavors.
Freezer: You can freeze cooked shrimp scampi for up to 1 month. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your shrimp scampi again, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the sauce nice and creamy.
Quality Tip: Keep in mind that while the flavors will still be delicious, the texture of the shrimp may change slightly after freezing.
Tips for the Best Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi
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Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest shrimp possible. Frozen shrimp is convenient, but look for wild-caught varieties for optimal flavor.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp; they only need 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become tough, ruining your dish.
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Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce’s thickness and improve its texture when mixing.
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Right Heat: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding shrimp to achieve a lovely sear. A crowded pan will lower the heat, preventing the shrimp from cooking evenly.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce as you go. Season generously with salt and pepper, and feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes for desired spiciness.
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Garnish Generously: Finish your dish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for added flavor and an impressively vibrant presentation.
Enjoy this delightful Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi that will have everyone asking for seconds!
What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi?
There’s nothing quite like a meal that beautifully balances flavors, textures, and accompanying sides to elevate the dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich, zesty sauce, this warm, crunchy companion is a delightful way to complete your dinner plate.
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Light Salad: A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp, bright contrast to the richness of the scampi, balancing indulgence with freshness.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, asparagus provides a lovely crunch and pairs well with the seafood elements, enhancing the dish’s elegance.
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Zucchini Noodles: If you’re sticking to a gluten-free option, spiralized zucchini offers a light and refreshing alternative to traditional pasta.
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Chardonnay: A crisp glass of Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the lemony notes while harmonizing the flavors of shrimp and butter.
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Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate after the richness of the main dish, a refreshing lemon sorbet adds a delightful citrus touch to conclude your meal on a bright note.
Indulging in these pairs will surely create a comforting and satisfying dining experience, perfect for impressing family or friends!
Gordon Ramsay’s Shrimp Scampi Recipe FAQs
What shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, the best choice is large shrimp, preferably wild-caught for maximum flavor. Fresh or properly thawed shrimp is essential to avoid rubbery texture. If shrimp isn’t available, feel free to substitute with scallops or even chicken for a unique twist.
How should I store leftover shrimp scampi?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Ensure it cools down a bit before sealing to maintain its delicious flavor. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Can I freeze shrimp scampi, and how?
Yes, you can freeze cooked shrimp scampi for up to 1 month! Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the sauce creamy.
What if I’m allergic to shellfish?
Very! If you or any of your guests are allergic to shellfish, you can adapt this recipe by using chicken or tofu as a substitute in the same cooking method. Ensure to check all other ingredients for potential allergens as well.
Why is my shrimp scampi watery?
If you find your shrimp scampi is watery, it could be due to excess liquid from the shrimp or pasta water. To fix this, continue simmering the sauce on low heat until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency. Alternatively, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water to help thicken things up.
How do I ensure my shrimp are cooked perfectly?
The secret to perfect shrimp is timing! Keep a close watch; shrimp should only cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque. Overcooking can toughen them, so keep the skillet at a good high heat and avoid crowding it for the best sear.
Gordon Ramsay's Shrimp Scampi: Quick, Flavorful Family Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add large shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add remaining olive oil and butter. Toss in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting it reduce slightly.
- Bring back the shrimp and add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, mixing in reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in freshly chopped parsley and mix well. Plate the dish immediately, garnishing with additional parsley and lemon wedges.