Easy Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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by Clara Harper

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In a world where seafood reigns supreme, nothing quite captures the essence of indulgence like a plate of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi.

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Dish
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succulent shrimp bathing in a luscious garlic butter sauce that makes your taste buds dance with joy. The moment you take a bite, the flavors explode in your mouth like fireworks on the Fourth of July! It’s the kind of dish that transports you straight to a sun-soaked beach while you’re still sitting at your kitchen table.

Now, let’s get personal for a moment. I remember the first time I attempted this recipe. It was during a family gathering, and let’s just say that my culinary skills were still growing—like my uncle’s questionable mustache. I nervously served my shrimp scampi to an audience that included my food critic sister and my grandmother who has taste buds sharper than her knitting needles. Spoiler alert: They loved it! Trust me when I say this dish will bring smiles all around.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This easy-to-make shrimp scampi is packed with rich flavors and takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
  • Its golden-brown sautéed shrimp look as good as they taste, making it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress everyone!

I still chuckle when I think about how my family raved about the bright lemony flavor paired with the buttery goodness—it was almost like an encore performance!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Large Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; just ensure they’re deveined and peeled for easy cooking.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add a robust flavor that can’t be beaten; chop them finely for even distribution.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter is best so you can control the saltiness of your dish perfectly.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled versions just won’t do!
  • Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness; chop it coarsely for that pop of green.
  • Pasta: Linguine or spaghetti works wonderfully; cook it al dente for the best texture.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a subtle heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those beautiful flavors coming together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously and then cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain but reserve some pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of the butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about one minute—watch out for those sneaky burnt bits!

Add the Shrimp: Toss in your shrimp and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes each side—then remove from heat.

Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter along with lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Stir until melted and well combined—your kitchen should smell heavenly now!

Toss It All Together: Return shrimp to the skillet along with drained pasta and chopped parsley. Mix everything thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.

Serve Up Your Creation!: Plate your scrumptious shrimp scampi and garnish with extra parsley or lemon slices if feeling fancy! Serve immediately while it’s hot—it won’t last long!

Now that you’re armed with all this deliciousness (and some handy tips), go forth and create your very own plate of magic! It’s practically guaranteed to impress family members or friends who think you’re a culinary genius—whether you are or not!

You Must Know

  • Mastering the art of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is all about timing and freshness.
  • Using fresh shrimp elevates the dish, ensuring a delightful texture.
  • The aromas of garlic and butter will have your taste buds dancing before you even take a bite.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the garlic in butter to release its flavors, then add shrimp until perfectly pink. This sequence ensures every ingredient shines while preventing overcooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for scallops or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for color and nutrition. These changes can create a unique twist on a classic dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid rubbery shrimp and maintain flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use only fresh shrimp for this recipe; frozen shrimp can lead to a watery sauce.
  • Always sauté garlic over medium heat; burning it will ruin your dish’s flavor.
  • Tossing pasta with sauce before serving enhances flavor absorption and presentation.

When I first made this dish for my family, they couldn’t stop raving about it! Their enthusiastic feedback inspired me to make it a regular feature at our dinner table.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of shrimp is best for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

Fresh, large shrimp are ideal for achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

Can I make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance.

What side dishes pair well with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

Garlic bread or a light salad complement this dish beautifully, enhancing the meal experience.

 

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Dish

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi


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  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a delightful seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for impressing family and friends alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp (deveined and peeled)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 8 oz linguine or spaghetti (uncooked)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Prepare the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook linguine until al dente as per package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
  2. 2. Sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. 3. Cook shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque (2-3 minutes per side), then remove from heat.
  4. 4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add remaining butter, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir well until combined.
  5. 5. Combine: Return shrimp to the skillet with drained pasta and chopped parsley. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water if necessary for creaminess.
  6. 6. Serve: Plate your shrimp scampi and garnish with additional parsley or lemon slices if desired.

Notes

  • For added nutrition, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
  •  If you’re short on time, prep ingredients ahead of time.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Seafood
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 610mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 225mg

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