Red Lobster’s shrimp dishes are well-loved for their rich flavors and delicious preparations. While the exact recipes used by the restaurant chain are proprietary, I can offer a few classic recipes inspired by Red Lobster’s famous shrimp dishes.
1. Garlic Shrimp Scampi (Inspired by Red Lobster)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Wine and Lemon: Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the shrimp to the skillet, toss them in the sauce, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with warm bread for dipping.
2. Crispy Shrimp (Red Lobster-Style)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prep Shrimp: Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This will help the breading stick and keep the shrimp tender.
- Make Breading: In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Coat Shrimp: Remove shrimp from the buttermilk and dredge them in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breading sticks.
- Fry Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve: Serve the crispy shrimp with cocktail sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
3. Shrimp Linguine Alfredo (Inspired by Red Lobster)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta: Cook the linguine according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook for 2 more minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
These recipes should give you a taste of Red Lobster’s famous shrimp dishes at home. Enjoy!