This Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a special treat with juicy shrimp and tender lobster in a garlic and butter sauce. It’s a simple yet fancy dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Trust me, the smell alone will make everyone gather in the kitchen! I love to serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti and linguine work well in this recipe. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. I’ve experimented with both, and they both taste great!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best, but if you can find fresh ones, they’ll elevate the dish. In a pinch, you can also use frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry.
Lobster: The star of the show! If you can’t find cooked lobster, cooked crab meat can be a tasty substitute. I’ve used both, and while lobster adds a special touch, crab still gives a delicious flavor.
Wine: White wine adds depth, but if you’re avoiding alcohol, chicken broth works perfectly in its place. A squeeze of extra lemon can help give a bit of zing.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but I really love the fresh taste. It just makes the sauce that much better!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so watch the time closely. Here’s a helpful method:
- Heat your skillet to medium heat and add the garlic first. Once that’s fragrant, toss in the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side. They’re ready when they’re pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan as soon as they look done.
- Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked when you take them out! They’ll finish cooking when you add them back to the sauce later.
With these tips, your shrimp will be perfectly tender every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
For The Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes in total. Approximately 15 minutes for preparation and cooking the pasta, and another 15 minutes to prepare the sauce and combine everything. Perfect for a quick fancy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your spaghetti or linguine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta but remember to save about 1/2 cup of that pasta water to help with the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Preparing the Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Let the butter melt and combine with the oil. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook this for about 1 minute until it’s nice and fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic brown.
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, carefully remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. We’ll add them back later!
4. Adding Flavor:
Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom—those are full of flavor! Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Finishing the Sauce:
Next, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the lemon juice. Add the chopped lobster meat and let everything warm through for about 2 minutes. It’s smelling great already!
6. Combining Everything:
Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix in the chopped parsley. Then, add the drained pasta to this flavorful mixture, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in that buttery garlic sauce. If you think the sauce is too thick, add that reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the perfect consistency.
7. Serving it Up:
Now it’s time to taste! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the Lobster Shrimp Scampi immediately, topped with delicious grated Parmesan cheese and more parsley for an extra pop of color. Enjoy this wonderful meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet for the best results.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to add some heat to your Lobster Shrimp Scampi, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with a splash of hot sauce at the table for those who enjoy an extra kick!
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. This will still give you a great flavor without the alcohol. Just add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of acidity!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also microwave it, but be sure to do so in short intervals to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
