Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

 

Red Lobster's Shrimp Scampi is a beloved dish, known for its savory, buttery, and garlicky flavors. This copycat recipe recreates the magic of that delicious dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the taste of Red Lobster's Shrimp Scampi anytime. Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through the process.

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooked pasta or crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Heat Butter and Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and bubbly. The combination of butter and olive oil adds richness and prevents the butter from burning.

Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Add Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Deglaze with Wine: Pour the dry white wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying in flavor.

Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). The lemon adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the butter and garlic.

Return Shrimp to Skillet: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat. Let the shrimp cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Finish with Parsley and Parmesan: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) just before serving. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory richness.
Serve: Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi!

Description:

This Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe captures the essence of the restaurant's famous dish. The shrimp are perfectly cooked in a savory blend of butter, olive oil, garlic, and white wine, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest adds a bright, tangy element that balances the richness of the sauce. Finished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese, this shrimp scampi is a delightful and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of buttery, garlicky, and tangy flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick and impressive dinner. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to make the most of the delicious sauce. Enjoy the taste of Red Lobster's Shrimp Scampi from the comfort of your own kitchen!