“Did you know that a meal doesn’t have to be extravagant to feel indulgent? This Easy Budget-Friendly Shrimp Scampi is a delicious example of how simple ingredients can elevate your weeknight dinner! With its buttery, garlicky sauce and succulent shrimp, this dish transforms cooking at home from routine to remarkable. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy evening in or looking to impress guests on a budget, this recipe is your go-to solution for a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s the perfect way to showcase your culinary skills without breaking the bank. Are you ready to dive into this flavorful journey that will leave your taste buds dancing?” Why Try This Shrimp Scampi Recipe? Indulgence at home: Enjoy the luxurious flavors of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi without the restaurant price tag. Quick and Easy: Create an impressive meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Versatile Substitutions: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or scallops, and mix in your favorite veggies for a nutritious twist. Perfectly Complimentary: Serve it with crusty bread or over pasta for a meal that satisfies every palate, just like in our popular Lobster Salad Citrus recipe! Rich, Flavor-packed Sauce: The blend of garlic, white wine, and herbs creates a sauce that’s simply irresistible. Cost-effective: Made with budget-friendly ingredients, this dish offers an indulgent experience without the hefty expense! Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat Ingredients For the Shrimp • Medium Shrimp – The star of the dish; ensure it’s peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor. For the Sauce • Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to suit your taste preferences. • Olive Oil – Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the shrimp and helps prevent sticking. • Garlic – Use fresh minced garlic for an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish. • White Wine – Adds acidity and complexity to the sauce; you can substitute half with chicken broth if preferred. • Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed enhances the dish with a bright and tangy flavor. • Dried Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, Thyme – These herbs add warmth and depth; feel free to substitute with your favorite Italian herb blend. • Unsalted Butter – Essential for creating a rich, creamy sauce; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy blending. For the Finishing Touches • Fresh Parsley – Adds a vibrant, color, and burst of fresh flavor; can be swapped with cilantro if desired. • Freshly Grated Parmesan – An optional topping that adds a savory finish; highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor in your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat dish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat Step 1: Season the Shrimp Begin by patting the medium shrimp dry with paper towels, ensuring they’re moist but not wet. Season them generously with kosher salt and black pepper, creating a flavorful base for your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. This step should take about 2 minutes, setting the stage for a delicious meal ahead. Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil, letting it warm up for about 1 minute. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Use a spatula to gently flip them halfway through for even cooking, then remove and set aside. Step 3: Cook the Garlic In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add more olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant but not burnt. This aromatic foundation is crucial for your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, as it builds the dish’s rich flavor profile. Step 4: Add Wine and Lemon Juice Pour in the white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring vigorously to combine. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for about 4-5 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced by half, creating a flavorful base for your sauce. You’ll notice the sauce thickening as it cooks. Step 5: Incorporate Herbs Once the sauce has reduced, sprinkle in your dried herbs—basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme—mixing well. Allow the mixture to simmer for another minute, which will infuse the sauce with aromatic goodness. The delightful aroma will let you know that your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is coming together beautifully. Step 6: Add the Butter Gradually add the room temperature unsalted butter to the sauce, stirring continuously until it’s fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This step typically takes about 2-3 minutes, creating a luscious texture that enhances the shrimp’s flavor. Ensure to scrape any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan while you stir. Step 7: Combine Shrimp and Sauce Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the rich sauce. Let them cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes just to heat through, ensuring the shrimp soak up all the delicious flavors. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as necessary for the perfect balance. Step 8: Serve with Garnishes Immediately plate your sumptuous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. This finishing touch not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s savory elements. Serve hot alongside crusty bread or over pasta for a truly indulgent experience. Expert Tips for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic to elevate the taste of your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should only turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, ruining the dish’s delightful texture. Flavor Punch: Add a pinch of lemon zest for an extra citrusy kick. It brightens the dish and complements the buttery, garlicky sauce perfectly. Serve Fresh: To maintain the wonderful texture and flavors, serve the scampi immediately after cooking. If allowed to sit too long, it may become soggy. Wine Substitutions: If you prefer a non-alcoholic dish, use half chicken broth and half water instead of white wine. This swap keeps the sauce flavorful while accommodating dietary choices. Variations & Substitutions for Shrimp Scampi Feel free to get creative with this Shrimp Scampi; let’s make it your own masterpiece bursting with flavor! Butter-Free: Substitute olive oil for butter to lighten the sauce while still retaining its deliciousness. Broth-Based: Replace white wine with chicken or vegetable broth for a tasty, alcohol-free version. This swap keeps the sauce rich and flavorful! Veggie Delight: Add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to introduce more nutritious elements and extra color. These veggies not only boost health but also add a lovely texture. Spicy Twist: For heat lovers, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while it cooks to bring some zing to your dish. This little adjustment can elevate the entire flavor profile! Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and skip the Parmesan to create a delightful dairy-free version. This ensures everyone can enjoy your lovely scampi. Pasta Swap: Try using zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash instead of regular pasta for a low-carb option that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Herb Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley. Each herb will offer a unique twist to your scampi. Seafood Fusion: Bring in scallops, lobster, or even salmon for a luxurious seafood medley that’s sure to impress. The combination of flavors will transport you to a seaside shack, every bite delicious! Consider pairing your creation with some scrumptious sides like Garlic Bread or a fresh Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup to complement your Shrimp Scampi adventure. Enjoy the culinary journey! How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Scampi Fridge: Store leftover Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for a quick reheat. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the scampi in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, note that the shrimp’s texture may change slightly upon thawing. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid Sogginess: To maintain the dish’s delightful texture, avoid letting the scampi sit in the fridge for too long before reheating. What to Serve with Easy Budget-Friendly Shrimp Scampi Indulge in a flavorful meal experience that delights the senses and will have everyone asking for seconds. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that rich, buttery sauce; it’s a must-have companion for your shrimp scampi. Steamed Asparagus: Offers a fresh, crunchy contrast that balances the rich flavors and adds vibrant color to your plate. Lemon-Infused Rice: Light and zesty, this dish enhances the shrimp’s lemony notes while providing a satisfying base that’s quick to prepare. Herbed Quinoa: A nutritious and hearty alternative to pasta, it absorbs flavors beautifully and complements the buttery sauce. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing make a refreshing start to your meal, cutting through the richness of the scampi. Chardonnay: This white wine echoes the flavors in your dish, bringing out the dish’s buttery and garlicky elements for a perfect pairing. Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich and velvety dessert, which contrasts nicely with the savory shrimp dish. Ready to complement your cooking adventure with these delicious pairings? Make Ahead Options These Easy Budget-Friendly Shrimp Scampi are perfect for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious dinner even on your busiest nights! You can season the shrimp with salt and pepper and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic, herbs, and a lemon juice mixture ahead of time, refrigerating them separately. When it’s time to whip up dinner, simply sauté the shrimp and garlic, add the prepared liquids, and follow the remaining steps as directed. This streamlined approach not only saves time but ensures your shrimp remain tender and the sauce burst with flavor, offering a delightful home-cooked meal with minimal effort! Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for medium shrimp that are firm and moist, with no dark spots or strong odor. Fresh shrimp should ideally smell like the ocean. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking for the best texture and flavor. What’s the best way to store leftover Shrimp Scampi? Store any leftover Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the freshness and flavor of the dish, so it’s ready for a quick meal! If you’re planning to keep it longer, freezing is an option. Can I freeze Shrimp Scampi? How do I do it? Certainly! To freeze your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer it into an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It’s best to consume it within 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove. How can I avoid overcooking the shrimp? Great question! The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is to watch them closely. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes on each side. If you see them curling up tightly or turning rubbery, you’ve cooked them for too long! Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions? Very! For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pasta or serve the scampi on its own. If you’re avoiding alcohol, substituting white wine with a mix of chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice works beautifully while keeping the flavors intact. Always feel free to customize herbs and seasonings based on your personal preferences! How long can I keep Shrimp Scampi in the fridge? You can store your leftover Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi in the refrigerator for about 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s ideal to enjoy it freshly cooked and served right away! Savor Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat at Home Tonight Enjoy a budget-friendly version of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi with this easy recipe, featuring succulent shrimp in a rich, buttery sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Shrimp1 pound Medium Shrimp peeled and deveinedFor the Sauce1 teaspoon Kosher Salt1 teaspoon Black Pepper2 tablespoons Olive Oil4 cloves Garlic minced1/2 cup White Wine2 tablespoons Lemon Juice freshly squeezed1 teaspoon Dried Basil1 teaspoon Dried Oregano1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary1 teaspoon Dried Thyme4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter at room temperatureFor the Finishing Touches1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped1/4 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan optional Equipment large skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi CopycatPat the medium shrimp dry with paper towels and season with kosher salt and black pepper.Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil. Once warm, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.Pour in white wine and lemon juice, stir to combine, and bring to a boil. Reduce by half for about 4-5 minutes.Sprinkle in dried herbs and let simmer for another minute.Gradually add unsalted butter, stirring until fully melted and creamy.Return shrimp to skillet, toss to coat, and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes.Plate with a garnish of parsley and parmesan, serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 170mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesUse high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, avoid overcooking shrimp, serve immediately for the best texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
