Description

If you love the buttery, garlicky goodness of Red Lobster’s shrimp scampi, this recipe will bring that same delicious experience right to your kitchen. This shrimp scampi is easy to make and perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal. With tender shrimp cooked in a rich, garlic-infused sauce, this dish is sure to impress

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they are not already prepared. Pat them dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper to taste. This step ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant. If using, pour in the dry white wine and chicken broth, and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using) for a little extra kick.

Step 4: Combine the Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the shrimp are heated through and fully coated in the sauce. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Step 5: Serve
Once the shrimp scampi is ready, remove it from the heat. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of richness. Serve the shrimp scampi hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty finish. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips
Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Make it a Meal: Serve the shrimp scampi over a bed of your favorite pasta or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.
Non-Alcoholic Option: If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with additional chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version of the sauce.
Conclusion
This Red Lobster-inspired Shrimp Scampi is a quick and easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and a hint of lemon creates a dish that’s full of flavor and sure to satisfy. Perfect for any occasion, this shrimp scampi is a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal in the comfort of your own home!