The best copycat Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe to try today

Recreating your favorite restaurant dish at home is truly special. The smell of your kitchen can make you feel like you’re at Red Lobster. It’s a cozy feeling that makes all worries disappear with the first bite of red lobster shrimp scampi.

Whether it’s a simple dinner or a big celebration, making shrimp scampi at home is more than a recipe. It’s an experience that brings comfort and joy. With fresh shrimp, garlic, and butter, you can enjoy this favorite dish in just 30 minutes. Are you ready to make your kitchen feel like Red Lobster? Let’s explore the world of shrimp scampi together!

Key Takeaways

• Prepare shrimp quickly to preserve texture—only 2-3 minutes per side!
• Using quality olive oil and butter enhances the dish’s richness.
• White wine is essential for that classic, savory flavor.
• Experiment with herbs to find your perfect flavor profile.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Introduction to Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Red Lobster shrimp scampi is a seafood dish loved by many. It combines fresh shrimp with a rich, buttery sauce. This dish is often enjoyed with pasta or bread to soak up the sauce.

Making shrimp scampi at home lets you enjoy its taste without going to the restaurant. The cooking process is simple yet elegant. It’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Preparing this dish takes about 30 minutes. You’ll need extra-large shrimp and a flavorful sauce made of garlic, white wine, and lemon juice. This sauce enhances not only the shrimp but also the pasta it’s served with.

Creating a restaurant-style dish is all about using quality ingredients and balancing flavors. You can easily make this dish and impress your loved ones. It’s a great way to share the delicious seafood taste of red lobster shrimp scampi.

Ingredients Needed for Your Shrimp Scampi

To make a tasty meal at home, you need the right ingredients for red lobster shrimp scampi. Choosing the best shrimp and pantry items can make your dish taste amazing. It will feel like your favorite restaurant meal.

Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe, and both will work perfectly. Fresh shrimp has a lighter taste. Frozen shrimp is cheaper and easier to find.

If you pick frozen, thaw it first. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or in cold water for 15 to 30 minutes.

Essential Pantry Items

Key ingredients make your shrimp scampi taste great. You’ll need:

• 1 pound of extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup of unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups of white wine or chicken broth as a substitute
• 4 cloves of minced garlic
• Juice from 1 lemon

Recommended Fresh Herbs and Seasonings

Adding fresh herbs and seasonings can make your dish even better. Fresh parsley adds a bright touch. Old Bay seasoning or Italian seasoning gives it a rich flavor.

• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning (1 teaspoon for the shrimp and 1 teaspoon for the sauce)
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for additional flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Shrimp Scampi

Making shrimp scampi at home is a fun cooking adventure. You can make a dish like a restaurant’s in under 30 minutes. Follow these steps to make it happen.

Preparing the Shrimp

Begin with one pound of fresh or frozen shrimp. Choose extra-large for the best taste and texture. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a bit of Old Bay Seasoning.

Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sauté the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side. They should turn pink and be fully cooked. Take the shrimp out of the skillet and set them aside.

Cooking the Garlic and Deglazing the Pan

Use the same skillet to add flavor to your dish. Mince four cloves of garlic and sauté for about a minute. Be careful not to burn it.

Now, deglaze the pan! Pour in 1 ½ cups of dry white wine and ¼ cup of lemon juice. Scrape the flavorful bits off the bottom. This makes the dish even better. Let it simmer for five minutes to concentrate the flavors.

Finishing the Sauce

Lower the heat and add half a cup of unsalted butter to the pan. Let it melt into the sauce. Put the cooked shrimp back in the skillet, making sure they’re well-coated.

To add more flavor, sprinkle some chopped parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve it over your favorite pasta, like linguine or angel hair, for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information	Per Serving
Calories	95
Carbohydrates	3g
Protein	11g
Fat	3g
Saturated Fat	0.5g
Cholesterol	95mg
Sodium	629mg
Calcium	58mg
Iron	1mg

Enjoy your homemade shrimp scampi with crusty bread and a side salad. It’s a meal that will impress everyone.

Tips for Perfecting Your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

To make your shrimp scampi better, try a few tips. Choose the right wine or broth and add seasonings to boost flavors. These steps will make your dish as good as Red Lobster’s. Also, serving it right will make it look and taste great.

Choosing the Right Wine or Broth

For the best shrimp scampi, pick a dry white wine like Chardonnay. It adds depth and richness. If you don’t want wine, use good chicken broth instead. It’s cheaper and makes the seafood taste better.

Adjusting Flavor with Seasonings

Make your scampi special by trying different seasonings. Add red pepper flakes for spice and extra salt and pepper for taste. Using fresh herbs will make your dish unique and delicious.

Best Practices for Serving and Pairing

Serve your scampi hot over pasta or rice. Add crusty French bread for the garlic sauce. A light salad balances the meal’s richness. These tips will make your shrimp scampi a hit with your family.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for the Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp is a good choice because it’s often cheaper. Make sure it’s thawed before cooking. You can thaw it in the fridge overnight or quickly in cold water for 15-30 minutes.

What type of wine is best for shrimp scampi?

Dry white wine, like Chardonnay, is best for shrimp scampi. It adds depth to the dish. If you don’t like wine, use high-quality chicken broth instead. It will still add rich flavor.

How can I adjust the flavors in my shrimp scampi?

You can try adding different seasonings. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste.

What should I serve with shrimp scampi?

Serve shrimp scampi hot with pasta or over rice. French bread for dipping in the sauce is a great choice. A light salad can also balance out the meal.

How long does it take to make shrimp scampi from scratch?

Shrimp scampi can be made in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for both special occasions and quick weeknight dinners.

Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp?

Yes, you can use other seafood like scallops or lobster. This way, you can make your own unique dish.

red lobster shrimp scampi/red lobster shrimp scampi.