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Let’s talk about shrimp scampi—comfort food at its finest without requiring you to spend hours at the stovetop. This Instant Pot version is a game changer: easy, quick, and bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a mini celebration, this dish is always a winner! And the best part? It’s the perfect balance of elegance and effortlessness. Let me show you how to whip it up in no time!
If dinner feels like a sprint sometimes, this one’s a marathon you’ll actually enjoy!
### Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Thanks to the Instant Pot, this scampi is done in under 25 minutes, start to finish.
- Incredible Flavor: Classic garlicky and buttery goodness with just the right touch of lemon and white wine.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pot is all you need, making cleanup a breeze—because who wants a pile of dishes?
- Elegant Meets Effortless: Perfect for weeknights or date nights. It’s fancy without being fussy.
### Ingredients Breakdown
**Essentials:**
- Shrimp: Medium or large, peeled and deveined shrimp work great. If frozen, make sure to thaw them first.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. Don’t skimp on this one!
- Butter & Olive Oil: A combination gives the scampi that silky texture without being overly rich.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that zesty brightness.
- Dry White Wine: Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will do the trick, but chicken broth works for a non-alcoholic version.
- Pasta: Thin spaghetti or linguine are classic choices, but any long pasta works.
- Parmesan & Parsley: A sprinkle on top gives it that perfect finish.
**Pro Tips:**
- Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness—shrimp tends to release natural salt into the sauce.
- Parsley not your thing? Swap it for fresh basil or chives for a different twist.
### Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make this delicious shrimp scampi in your Instant Pot.
- Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth), stirring to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Add the pasta, breaking it in half if necessary to fit. Pour in 2 cups of water, ensuring all the pasta is mostly submerged. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual (or Pressure Cook) on high for 6 minutes. Once finished, allow a quick release.
- Carefully open the lid, and give everything a quick stir. Add the shrimp on top of the pasta and switch back to sauté mode. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Let them melt into the sauce for an extra dose of richness and freshness.
- Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan before serving. Voilà, your Instant Pot shrimp scampi is ready to shine!
### Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them—overcooked shrimp turn rubbery fast!
- Layering Tip: Adding the shrimp on top of the cooked pasta ensures they don’t get overcooked under pressure.
- Extra Garlic Lovers: Stir in an extra clove of minced garlic during Step 6 for an even more garlicky punch.
### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
**Recipe Variations:**
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a little heat.
- Keto-Friendly: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative.
- Vegetarian Version: Sub the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or asparagus tips.
**Serving Suggestions:**
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty garlic bread to soak up that buttery sauce. Don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine to round it out!
### FAQs
**Can I use frozen shrimp without thawing?**
It’s best to thaw your shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a rush, submerge the shrimp in cold water for 10-15 minutes to quickly thaw them.
**Can I make this ahead of time?**
Shrimp scampi is best served fresh, but you can cook the pasta and make the sauce ahead of time. Add the shrimp and reheat gently just before serving.
**How do I store leftovers?**
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
## Ready to Make It?
There you have it—the easiest, tastiest shrimp scampi you’ll ever make, right in your Instant Pot. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a foolproof crowd-pleaser. I’d love to see your creations! Tag me with your drool-worthy scampi pics at #TheKitchensAid and share your take on this Instant Pot wonder in the comments below. Let’s celebrate delicious, low-stress dinner victories together!
