Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a savory and buttery seafood dish infused with garlic, white wine, and fresh herbs. This restaurant-style recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home and pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Bring the flavors of Red Lobster to your own kitchen.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main dish, or over your favorite starch.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple, fresh ingredients make this dish shine.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• White wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
• Lemon juice
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
   • Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Pour white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
   • Stir in the remaining butter, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Combine:
   • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat for 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is warmed through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Herby Upgrade: Add fresh basil or thyme for an herby twist.
• Cheesy Finish: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan for a creamier sauce.
• Vegetable Addition: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra nutrients.
• Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
• Alcohol-Free: Substitute chicken broth for the white wine.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the texture of the shrimp can change when frozen.

FAQs

What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal, but medium shrimp can also work. Ensure they are peeled and deveined.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them to the sauce at the very end to avoid overcooking.

What can I use instead of white wine?

Chicken broth or vegetable broth makes an excellent substitute.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

What’s the best side to serve with shrimp scampi?

Pasta, rice, or crusty bread are classic pairings, but a side salad also works well.

Can I add more seafood to this recipe?

Absolutely! Scallops, mussels, or crab meat can be added for a seafood medley.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Stir in a slurry of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water, simmering until thickened.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild kick if you add red pepper flakes, but you can omit them for a milder flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The sauce can be prepared in advance, but cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture.

Conclusion

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a mouthwatering dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or an appetizer, it’s guaranteed to impress. Try this recipe at home and enjoy restaurant-style dining in the comfort of your kitchen!

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