Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe brings the taste of the iconic restaurant right into your home. With succulent shrimp cooked in a buttery, garlicky sauce and a hint of lemon, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, these shrimp are tender and juicy.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a smooth base for the sauce and helps the shrimp cook evenly.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory aroma.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce and helps it thicken.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs that complement the shrimp perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a slight kick of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a tangy freshness.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a fresh, herbal finish.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to the scampi.
Instructions
-
Melt the Butter and Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium-high heat. This combination creates a rich and flavorful base for the shrimp. -
Cook the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. -
Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Be sure not to overcook them to avoid a rubbery texture. -
Remove the Shrimp:
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. This prevents them from becoming overcooked while you finish the sauce. -
Make the Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Add the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. -
Reduce the Sauce:
Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This will concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce. -
Add Lemon Juice and Shrimp:
Stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, tangy note. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them to coat thoroughly in the sauce. -
Finish the Dish:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp. Toss everything together so the shrimp are evenly coated and the cheese melts slightly into the sauce. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the shrimp scampi immediately, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp give the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can work well too. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. You can make the dish spicier or milder depending on your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on them, and remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Q: What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
A: Shrimp scampi pairs well with pasta, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables. A piece of crusty bread is also great for soaking up the sauce.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Shrimp scampi is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it just before adding the shrimp to save time.
Conclusion
This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal, its rich flavors and quick preparation time make it a go-to recipe for shrimp lovers. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky, and slightly tangy goodness with your favorite side dishes!