This Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a yummy dish that brings the taste of the sea right to your table! With tender shrimp and sweet lobster, it’s a seafood lover’s dream.
There’s something special about the buttery garlic sauce that makes it taste like a fancy restaurant meal. I love serving it over pasta, and I never feel guilty going back for seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If seafood is a concern, frozen shrimp are great too! Just thaw them properly. You can swap shrimp for scallops or even chicken if you prefer.
Lobster: Fresh lobster is amazing, but cooked lobster is convenient and flavorful. If lobster isn’t available, try lump crab meat or even a plant-based seafood alternative for a different twist.
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine works well. If you’re gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free pasta. Zucchini noodles are a nice low-carb option if you’re watching your carbs.
White Wine: A dry white wine enhances the dish, but if you prefer non-alcoholic options, you can use chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice with a bit of vinegar for acidity.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over saltiness. You can use olive oil entirely instead, or even try a vegan butter if you’re looking to keep it plant-based.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp properly is key to enjoying this dish. Overcooked shrimp can be tough and rubbery, so here are some tips:
- Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side on medium heat. They cook quickly!
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to ensure they sear nicely.
- Remove them from heat as soon as they are done and set them aside. They’ll continue to cook slightly from the residual heat.
Perfectly cooked shrimp will be juicy and tender, elevating the overall dish! Enjoy making your Lobster Shrimp Scampi with these handy tips!
Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp & Lobster:
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
Pasta:
- 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, 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
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Cherry tomatoes, chopped (optional for a fresh touch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lobster Shrimp Scampi takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, but save about a cup of pasta water for later!
2. Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and just cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will help to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Reduce the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts. This will help thicken your sauce nicely.
6. Combine the Seafood:
Return the cooked shrimp and lobster meat to the skillet with the chopped parsley. Gently toss everything to coat in the buttery sauce and warm through for another 1-2 minutes. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you’re happy with the consistency.
7. Toss with Pasta:
Now add the drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything well to ensure the pasta is fully coated in that scrumptious sauce!
8. Season and Serve:
Give it a taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Feel free to toss in chopped cherry tomatoes for a fresh touch if you like. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if you want a finishing touch.
Enjoy your luxurious, garlicky Lobster Shrimp Scampi—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp and Lobster for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp and lobster meat work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No worries! If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. You can also use a mixture of white grape juice with a splash of vinegar for acidity to mimic the wine’s flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the pasta moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed freshly made, you can prepare the seafood and the sauce ahead of time. Simply reheat the sauce gently before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta to serve. This keeps everything fresh and delicious!
