Description
This Classic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe features tender, juicy shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine and lemon juice. Perfectly seasoned and served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a quick and delicious seafood dish that replicates the beloved restaurant favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
To Serve
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread
Instructions
- Heat oil and butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil along with 2 tablespoons of the butter until melted and hot.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté garlic: To the same skillet, add the remaining butter and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
- Add spice (optional): Stir in crushed red pepper flakes if using, for a subtle heat.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat well. Simmer together for 1 more minute until shrimp are heated through.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately over cooked pasta or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a richer, more buttery flavor closer to the restaurant version, increase the butter slightly and reduce the amount of white wine.
- If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce cooking time to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.
- Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best bright citrus flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at its best texture and flavor.
