This Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a delicious blend of tender shrimp and sweet lobster cooked in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for impressing friends or family!
Honestly, this dish makes any dinner feel special. I love serving it over pasta, and trust me, the garlic butter sauce gets every last noodle! You won’t want to miss a drop! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lobster Meat: Fresh or frozen lobster works. If you’re in a pinch, you could use imitation lobster meat, but it won’t have the same rich taste. Also, crab meat can be a tasty alternative if lobster isn’t available.
Shrimp: Always opt for large shrimp for this dish. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp will do just fine. Look for “U20” or “16/20” labels for sizing. You can also replace shrimp with scallops for a different seafood twist!
Butter & Olive Oil: While unsalted butter is my go-to, you can use ghee or vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Keep a mix of both butter and olive oil for added flavor, but use all of one if you prefer!
White Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish, but if you prefer alcohol-free, chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch. White grape juice can add a hint of sweetness.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. For a different flavor, try basil or even chives, depending on your preference.
How Do I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic is all about timing. Too long, and it can become bitter! Here’s how to do it right:
- Always use medium heat to prevent burning.
- Add minced garlic after the oil or butter is hot but not smoking.
- Stir constantly and keep an eye on the color. Cook for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
- Once it starts turning golden, it’s time to add your next ingredients. This will keep the garlic flavorful and delicious!
Trust me, garlic can turn from perfect to burnt very quickly, so don’t walk away!
How to Make Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Seafood:
- 1/2 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- Cooking Essentials:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Flavorings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For Serving:
- Cooked pasta or linguine, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything up. It’s a quick but impressive meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Seafood:
Start by patting the shrimp and lobster meat dry with paper towels. This will help them sear nicely in the pan and keep them from steaming. Set them aside while you get everything else ready.
2. Melt the Butter and Olive Oil:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter along with the olive oil. This combination of fats adds great flavor and richness to the dish.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Sauté everything for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. You want it fragrant and just starting to turn golden.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy!
5. Add Lobster Meat:
Once the shrimp is flipped, add in the chopped lobster meat. Cook everything for another 1-2 minutes until both the shrimp and lobster are cooked through. They should be opaque and tender.
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the white wine (or substitute) and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it reduce for about 2-3 minutes. This will concentrate the flavors while thickening the sauce slightly.
7. Finish with Butter & Parsley:
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. When the butter melts and everything is combined nicely, it’s ready to serve!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Lobster Shrimp Scampi immediately, either on a bed of cooked pasta or on its own. Make sure to spoon plenty of that delicious garlic butter sauce over the top. Don’t forget some crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy your meal, and savor every bite of this tasty Lobster Shrimp Scampi! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Seafood for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and lobster! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. For a little tang, a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water can also work. Just keep the amount similar for a balanced flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring you don’t overcook the seafood again.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare ingredients ahead, you can chop the lobster and shrimp and store them separately in the fridge. Cook them just before serving for the best texture and flavor!
