Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a delightful seafood dish that’s packed with juicy lobster and plump shrimp, all tossed in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s easy to make and really tasty!
Every time I cook this, my kitchen smells amazing! I usually serve it over pasta or with a side of crusty bread for dipping. Trust me, it’s a treat anyone will love! 🦞🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Lobster Meat: You can find pre-cooked lobster meat in the seafood section. If that’s hard to find, try using crab meat or even imitation crab as a substitute. They’ll still give you that seafood feel!
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this dish, but medium works too. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them beforehand!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level. You can substitute with margarine or a vegan butter if you want a dairy-free option, but I find real butter adds fantastic flavor.
White Wine: It adds depth to the sauce, but if you’re avoiding alcohol, use chicken or vegetable broth instead. A splash of apple cider vinegar can also provide a similar acidity!
Red Pepper Flakes: They add a nice kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, you might leave them out, or replace them with black pepper. For extra spice, try cayenne pepper!
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfect shrimp is to not overcook them. They only need about 2-3 minutes per side. When they turn pink and opaque, they are done. Remove them from the pan right when they’re cooked—this helps keep them tender!
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. This gives them a nice sear.
- Your shrimp should be patted dry to help them cook evenly.
- Once they’re cooked, take them out of the pan before adding other ingredients to avoid overcooking in the residual heat.
How to Make Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Seafood:
- 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lobster Shrimp Scampi takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and fancy meal perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels. This step helps them sear nicely. Season them lightly with salt and pepper to add some flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and started to bubble, add the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and cooked through. When done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
4. Add the Flavor:
Stir in the lemon juice, and if you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
5. Combine the Seafood:
Gently add the chopped lobster meat and cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well coated in the sauce and heated through.
6. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top to add a fresh flavor and a pop of color. Give it a quick toss again to mix it in.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Lobster Shrimp Scampi immediately over cooked pasta or rice. Make sure to spoon extra sauce over the top for maximum flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for a quicker method. Pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What Can I Use Instead of White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor. A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can also add the needed acidity without alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. A splash of broth can help revitalize the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. Just cook the shrimp and lobster right before serving to maintain that tender texture!
