This Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a tasty dish packed with juicy shrimp and tender lobster. The buttery garlic sauce is perfect for coating pasta or dipping bread!
You can’t go wrong with seafood in a rich sauce! When I make it, I always feel fancy, even if I’m just in my sweats. 🍝💕 Plus, it’s super fun to share with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great because they stay juicy while cooking. If you’re looking for a change, feel free to use scallops or even crab meat instead!
Lobster: Pre-cooked lobster meat is the way to go for convenience. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with another shellfish like crab or even just stick with shrimp for a lighter version.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil exclusively, but it won’t be as rich.
White Wine: A dry white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t drink alcohol, consider using chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. Just add a splash of vinegar for acidity!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness. If you’re out, chopped basil or chives would work nicely as alternatives.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Getting shrimp just right is crucial for a dish like this! Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so here’s what to do:
- Pat the shrimp dry before cooking to get a nice sear.
- Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side. Keep a close eye on them; they turn pink when done.
- Remove them from the heat as soon as they’re cooked through and don’t skip resting them—they’ll continue cooking a bit from the heat of the pan.
What’s the Best Way to Enhance Flavor with Garlic?
Garlic is a key flavor in shrimp scampi, and it’s easy to burn if you’re not careful:
- Add minced garlic after the shrimp are cooked and the pan is still hot.
- Saute it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic can taste bitter, so keep an eye on it!
These tips will help you nail this delicious dish, making it a favorite for special occasions or cozy dinners at home! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Seafood:
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Optional: cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Lobster Shrimp Scampi takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish, perfect for a special dinner or a satisfying weeknight meal. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear nicely. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and black pepper.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter along with the olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn a lovely pink color and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if you’re using them. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to let it brown.
4. Add the Wine:
Pour in the white wine and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce for about 2-3 minutes, which will help intensify the flavors and thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the lemon juice. Continue stirring until the butter has melted, creating a smooth and luscious sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked lobster meat and shrimp back into the skillet. Gently toss everything to coat the seafood with the sauce while warming the lobster through without overcooking.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the dish and give it a taste. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve immediately, spooning the rich garlic butter sauce over cooked pasta or with some warm crusty bread for an extra special touch!
This dish is not just rich and buttery; it’s bursting with flavor and perfect for impressing family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Lobster Instead of Cooked Lobster?
Yes, you can! If you’re using fresh lobster, cook it in boiling water until just done before chopping it into pieces for the scampi. Make sure to let it cool before handling.
What if I Don’t Have White Wine?
No worries! You can substitute the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth. For a bit of acidity, add a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vinegar to mimic the brightness of the wine.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
If you love spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out.
