Name: Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined); Kosher salt (to taste); freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1.5 cups white wine; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 0.25 teaspoon dried basil; 0.25 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.25 teaspoon dried rosemary; 0.25 teaspoon dried thyme; 0.5 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves; 0.25 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Why Make a Copycat Shrimp Scampi?

If you've ever savored the succulent shrimp scampi at Red Lobster, you know it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. But why venture out when you can recreate that magic right in your own kitchen? Making this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat provides you a fantastic opportunity to impress your friends and family without breaking the bank. The best part? You control the ingredients and can tweak the recipe to your preference!

This dish is not only budget-friendly, but it also allows you to experiment with fresh ingredients, ensuring you stay within healthier bounds. Using alternatives for wine, such as chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar, maintains the dish's essence while making it more accessible for those who prefer non-alcoholic cooking.

Plus, cooking at home means you can whip up a generous serving for you and your loved ones, sometimes for less than what you’d pay for one dish at the restaurant. Imagine sitting down to a delightful plate of shrimp scampi, garnished with love, fresh parsley, and Parmesan, all at your own dining table. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this incredible recipe—you’ll be glad you did!

For more tips on cooking shrimp perfectly, check out Seafood Nutrition.

Ingredients for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

To recreate that delightful Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat right in your kitchen, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined — Look for shrimp that are fresh and of good quality. This will be the star of your dish!
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper — These simple seasonings can enhance the natural flavor of your shrimp.
1 tablespoon of olive oil — Opt for a good flavor; it makes all the difference in this dish.
3 cloves of garlic, minced — Fresh garlic adds a fantastic aroma and taste.
1 ½ cups of chicken broth — This will replace the wine and give a rich depth of flavor without the alcohol.
2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice — For that zesty brightness that pairs beautifully with shrimp!
Herbs: ¼ teaspoon each of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme — A mix of these will elevate your shrimp scampi.
½ cup of unsalted butter, at room temperature — Butter adds that luscious creaminess we all crave.
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley leaves — A fresh herb to garnish and add a pop of color.
¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan — Because what’s a scampi without a sprinkle of cheesy goodness?

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to impressing your friends and family with this elegant yet simple scampi recipe! For some great tips on preparing shrimp, check out Seafood Nutrition.

Step-by-step Preparation of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Creating a delightful Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat dish at home is easier than you might think! Let’s walk through this simple yet elegant recipe step by step, ensuring you impress your friends with a gourmet meal that’s surprisingly budget-friendly.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, let's make sure you have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups chicken broth (as a substitute for wine)
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Dried herbs: ¼ teaspoon each of basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme
½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Having all your ingredients ready will make the cooking process seamless, and you won’t have to scramble last minute. Plus, pre-measuring can also make your kitchen feel like a tidy and organized cooking studio.

Season and Cook the Shrimp

Next, it’s time to focus on those beautiful shrimp. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Then, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink. This is where you’ll start smelling that wonderful seafood aroma! Once cooked, set them aside—your shrimp are ready for their big comeback.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add your minced garlic. The goal here is to sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take just about a minute. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic can turn bitter, compromising the taste of your delicious Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat.

Create the Sauce

Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the chicken broth and add the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until reduced by half, which should take around 4-5 minutes. At this point, stir in the dried herbs—basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme—a delightful bouquet of flavors!

Combine Everything

Now for the best part! Stir in the room-temperature butter, a couple of tablespoons at a time, until it’s melted and your sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the shrimp back into the skillet, tossing everything together so that the shrimp are well coated. Finish it off with fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you're feeling fancy, serve it right away, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Voilà! You’ve just recreated a mouthwatering Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat dish in the comfort of your own home. Why not serve it with a side of garlic bread for dipping into that buttery sauce? Happy cooking!

Variations on Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi

For a bright and zesty twist on the classic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat, try adding more lemon and garlic! Simply increase the lemon juice to 2 tablespoons and toss in some lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. The key is to enhance the garlicky goodness while maintaining that buttery base you love. Pair it with a side of lemon-buttered asparagus for a complete meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Spicy Shrimp Scampi

Are you a fan of a little heat? Elevate your shrimp scampi by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your skillet. Start with ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes and adjust to your personal spice preference. This variation adds a subtle kick without overshadowing the dish's rich, buttery essence. Serve over a bed of pasta topped with fresh parsley for a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests.

With these variations, you can easily customize your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat to suit your taste buds while keeping the essence of the dish intact. Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Creating your very own Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat at home is a delightful experience, but here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Shrimp Selection: Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp—preferably wild-caught. This significantly enhances the taste.
Flavor Boost: For a richer flavor, try adding a touch of chicken broth in place of white wine. It gives that savory depth without the alcohol.
Garlic Lovers Unite: Increase the number of garlic cloves if you're a fan. More garlic equals more flavor!
Timing Matters: Be mindful not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and firm to avoid a rubbery texture.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta for a complete meal experience.

Enjoy creating this restaurant-quality dish with ease!

Serving Suggestions for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Elevate your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat experience with these delightful serving suggestions!

Serve with Fresh Bread: A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that luscious buttery sauce.
Pair with Pasta: Toss the shrimp scampi with al dente spaghetti or linguine for an unforgettable entree.
Add a Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Garnish Thoughtfully: Don’t forget the fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that restaurant-quality touch.

By combining these elements, you’ll create a stunning meal that’s both impressive and satisfying!

Time Breakdown for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Preparation Time

Getting the ingredients ready for your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat is a breeze! In just 15 minutes, you can have everything prepped, from peeling and deveining your shrimp to measuring out your herbs and spices.

Cooking Time

The actual cooking process is quick and delightful. You'll only need 15 minutes to whip up this delicious dish, which means you can impress your guests or enjoy a cozy dinner in no time!

Total Time

Altogether, the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat can be made in just 30 minutes—perfect for a weeknight meal or a little indulgent treat. Why not serve it with some crusty bread to soak up that luscious garlic butter sauce? Happy cooking!

For more cooking tips and alternatives, check out The Kitchn’s guide on shrimp cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

When delighting in this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat, it's essential to consider its nutritional benefits. Here’s a quick overview of the key nutritional facts that make this dish both scrumptious and satisfying.

Calories

Per serving, this dish contains approximately 400 calories, making it a great option for a flavorful meal without the guilt.

Protein

With around 34 grams of protein, shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, perfect for fueling your day and keeping you full.

Sodium

While enjoying your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, be mindful of the 920 mg of sodium per serving. Balancing with fresh salads or veggies can help maintain your overall sodium intake.

This calorie-friendly recipe is perfect for meal prep or impressing guests at dinner. If you’re looking for ways to make it even healthier, consider substituting butter with plant-based options or using a variety of herbs for more flavor without the extra calories. Have fun cooking, and enjoy every bite! For more about the health benefits of shrimp, check out this resource.

FAQs about Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work perfectly for this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. This way, they’ll cook evenly and maintain that delightful texture.

What should I serve with shrimp scampi?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. You can opt for garlic bread, a light salad, or even steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a twist, consider serving it over pasta or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce!

Can I make this recipe in advance?

While shrimp scampi is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some elements in advance. Chop garlic and herbs ahead of time, and have your shrimp ready. Just be aware that if you prepare it too early, the shrimp may lose some texture. If you're looking for a make-ahead option, check out these tips on meal planning.

Conclusion on Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Bringing the delightful flavors of the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi to your kitchen is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. This delicious recipe not only impresses but also fits well into your budget and busy schedule. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this restaurant-quality meal tonight!

For those looking to explore more culinary delights, check out The Kitchn for tips and recipes that will elevate your home cooking.