Craving that delicious Red Lobster Garlic Shrimp Scampi but don't want to leave the house? This recipe lets you recreate that restaurant-quality taste in your own kitchen! It’s surprisingly easy, quicker than you think, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to enjoy a burst of garlicky, buttery goodness with succulent shrimp. This healthy meal is a delicious dish that fits perfectly into your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients: You’ll need these simple ingredients for this homemade cooking masterpiece:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked linguine or spaghetti (about 1 pound)
Instructions: Let's get cooking!
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when you sauté them. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan (optional)
If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor! If omitting the wine, proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce. Serve immediately and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp Scampi:
- Don't overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Use good quality butter. The butter is a key ingredient in this dish, so using a good quality butter will make a big difference in the flavor.
- Adjust the spice level. If you don't like spicy food, you can omit the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount.
- Add some vegetables. For a more complete meal, you can add some sautéed vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with the shrimp.
Variations: Get creative!
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi: Increase the lemon juice to 1/3 cup for a zestier flavor profile.
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp Scampi: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use an online nutritional calculator. However, a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-450
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home, transforming a simple weeknight meal into a truly delicious experience. Enjoy your homemade Red Lobster-inspired Garlic Shrimp Scampi!