This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a tasty dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s tossed with just the right amount of lemon and herbs!
Who can resist that buttery, garlicky goodness? I love serving it over pasta or with warm bread to soak up every last drop. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for better texture. If unavailable, any size will work. You can also use frozen shrimp; just thaw them before cooking. For a different protein, try scallops or chicken!
Pasta: I prefer linguine for its ability to hold sauce, but spaghetti works fine too. You could substitute with zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option!
Butter & Olive Oil: Unsalted butter is best for controlling flavor. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, just use more olive oil. You can even try using garlic-infused oil to boost flavor.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds depth. If you don’t have any, chicken broth works well. Some people even like to use a splash of lemon-lime soda for a different taste!
Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a lovely color and fresh taste. If you don’t have any, use dried parsley, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting shrimp just right is essential. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, while undercooked can be unsafe. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure shrimp are completely thawed if frozen.
- Cook shrimp on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. They should be pink with opaque centers.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked to avoid overcooking.
Trust your eyes! As soon as they change color, they’re almost done. Enjoy your delicious shrimp scampi!
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this delicious dish takes about 20 minutes. You’ll need a few minutes to cook the pasta, and then just 10 minutes for the shrimp and sauce. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp scampi at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the linguine or spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta but remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. This will help to create a silky sauce!
2. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté just for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This will enhance the flavor!
5. Add Lemon and Shrimp:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for that bright flavor. Then return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently to coat in the sauce.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well. If the sauce appears a bit dry, add the reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency. It should be nice and saucy!
7. Final Touches:
Gently stir in the chopped parsley, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. This is your chance to customize it to your liking!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your homemade shrimp scampi right away, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side. It’s perfect for dipping bread into that lovely buttery sauce!
Enjoy your delicious shrimp scampi—it’s a simple yet impressive meal that brings the taste of Red Lobster to your kitchen!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to put them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can quickly thaw them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. For a non-alcoholic option, you can also use vegetable broth or even a splash of lemon juice mixed with water to mimic the acidity.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or extra butter to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the pasta right before serving to retain that fresh flavor.
