Dive into the tantalizing world of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi! This iconic dish, bursting with garlic, lemon, and butter flavors, has made its way into countless homes as a quick yet indulgent dinner option. In this article, we will uncover the intricacies of this shrimp scampi recipe from Red Lobster, along with essential tips and serving suggestions. Trust me, once you give this a read, you’ll be ready to whip up this dish like a pro!
What’s in Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
Let’s get straight to the first burning question: What goes into this mouth-watering dish? The ingredients are straightforward but pivotal in achieving that authentic Red Lobster taste. You’ll need:
- Shrimp: Preferably extra-large, either fresh or frozen
- Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, and Old Bay Seasoning
- Oil and Butter: Olive oil for sautéing and unsalted butter for richness
- Aromatics: Minced garlic to elevate the flavor
- Liquids: White wine and lemon juice for acidity
- Finishing Touches: Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for garnish
Can you make substitutions? Certainly! Chicken broth makes a great alternative if you prefer wine. The lemon juice lends a tangy punch, but a dash of vinegar could also work if you’re out.
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Tips for Making Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
So you have your ingredients lined up and are eager to start cooking. Hold on a minute! Here are some tips to ensure your shrimp scampi turns out perfect:
- Thaw Properly: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely defrosted. You don’t want them turning rubbery.
- Season Generously: Make sure to do the seasonings. Old Bay adds a unique flavor profile.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Shrimp cooks quickly, so 2 to 3 minutes on each side is usually enough.
- Deglaze Like a Pro: The white wine and lemon juice add flavor and help scrape up the flavorful bits stuck to the skillet.
- Finish Strong: A knob of unsalted butter will add richness and body to the sauce.
For those looking to add a twist, consider incorporating some crispy bacon. My Parmesan Bacon Shrimp Scampi Red Lobster recipe adds an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
How To Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
The dish is ready. Now what? Serving options abound. From simple to sophisticated, you have a range of choices:
- Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine is a perfect bed for the saucy shrimp.
- Rice: A bowl of steamed rice soaks up the delicious sauce like a sponge.
- Bread: Sourdough or French bread to mop up that delicious sauce.
- Salads: A side of a light green salad complements the dish’s richness.
You might also like my One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo, another excellent dish perfect for serving your shrimp scampi!
What Does Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Taste Like?
Ah, the question of taste. Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a melange of flavors. The shrimp itself is tender, succulent, and slightly sweet. The sauce is where the magic happens—a luscious blend of garlic, lemon, and white wine that elevates the dish from simple to sublime. Each bite promises a tangy, salty, buttery goodness, making it an addictive experience.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
Frozen shrimp works well in this recipe, but there are rules to follow. First, thaw the shrimp properly. You can either:
- Could you place it in the fridge overnight, or?
- Submerge in cold water for 30 minutes.
The key is to ensure the shrimp is wholly defrosted to avoid a chewy texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
In the unlikely event you have leftovers, store them properly. Use an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It stays suitable for up to 3 days. But remember the fresher, the better. So aim to consume it as soon as possible. Also, consider reheating on the stovetop rather than the microwave to maintain the dish’s texture.
After mastering this Red Lobster favorite, explore other shrimp dishes like my Perfect Fried Shrimp or Steak and Shrimp Teriyaki Noodles for more delicious meals!
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb of jumbo shrimp already peeled and deveined
- ½ tsp of quality Kosher salt
- ¼ tsp of fresh-cracked black pepper
- 2 tsp of Old Bay Seasoning separated into two 1-teaspoon portions
- 1 tbsp of premium olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1½ cups of your preferred white wine
- Juice from one fresh lemon
- ½ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter
- Freshly chopped parsley leaves for garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Seasoning the Shrimp: Generously sprinkle Kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and a teaspoon of Old Bay Seasoning on both sides of the shrimp.
- Heat Up the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil.
- Cook the Shrimp: Carefully place the shrimp into the hot skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set them aside on a separate plate.
- Garlic Flavor Boost: Add your finely minced garlic to the skillet, stirring for about a minute until it’s aromatic but not burnt.
- Deglazing the Skillet: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Use a wooden or silicone spoon to lift any flavorful bits that may be stuck to the pan. Let the mixture come to a boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
- Finishing the Sauce: Incorporate the unsalted butter and the remaining teaspoon of Old Bay Seasoning into the simmering sauce, stirring until the butter is fully melted.
- The Final Touch: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix them into the sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
