The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is that delightfully rich and flavorful dish that can transform a simple shrimp dinner into a seafood celebration at home. Bursting with garlicky goodness, a hint of tangy lemon, and the creamy, buttery sauce that has made this recipe a beloved favorite, it’s a perfect balance of savory and fresh that always leaves you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal or want to impress guests, this recipe brings that iconic restaurant taste right to your kitchen table with ease and elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is straightforward but plays a vital role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the tender shrimp to the brightness of lemon and the indulgence of butter, every component contributes to the dish’s unforgettable character.
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp provides a tender and juicy seafood base.
- 1 tablespoon pure olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity undertone and helps cook the shrimp to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped: Provides aromatic richness that infuses the dish with bold flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended): A lovely acidic backdrop that enhances the sauce while tenderizing the shrimp.
- 1/2 fresh lemon, juice only: Adds a bright, zesty note to balance the creamy butter.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a touch of herbs like oregano and basil for depth and warmth.
- 1/2 cup softened butter: Essential for that luscious, silky sauce that coats every bite.
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: Freshness and a pop of green color to finish the dish beautifully.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty finish that complements the buttery sauce wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring everything together perfectly.
How to Make Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat, which helps distribute heat evenly for perfectly cooked shrimp. Add the shrimp and cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn tender, opaque, and slightly pink. This quick sear locks in their delicate flavor. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep warm and juicy.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
Using the same skillet lets you capture all those flavorful drippings. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté gently until it becomes fragrant and golden, but never browned to avoid bitterness. Then pour in the white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer and reduce by half over about 5 minutes, concentrating the flavors to create a lively, tangy foundation for the scampi sauce.
Step 3: Add Italian Seasoning and Butter
Stir in the Italian seasoning to give that herby flair classic to this recipe. Turn the heat down to low to prevent the butter from separating, then add the softened butter in small pieces, stirring gently until it melts completely into a smooth, glossy sauce. This step is where the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe really shines with its signature velvety texture.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them well so each piece is coated in the rich sauce. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley for a touch of brightness and color, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, letting its salty depth melt slightly into the warm sauce for an irresistible finish.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Serve the shrimp scampi immediately while it’s piping hot, allowing the buttery sauce to shine at its best. Whether you enjoy it straight from the skillet, spooned over pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop, this dish promises a delight in every bite.
How to Serve Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley not only add a lovely visual appeal but also brighten the flavor profile. A sprinkle of extra parmesan or a twist of lemon zest can give that final flourish, enhancing both aroma and taste.
Side Dishes
The creamy richness of shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with simple sides such as angel hair pasta, garlic bread, or steamed asparagus. Each side complements the saucy shrimp perfectly, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to jazz it up? Try serving the shrimp scampi in hollowed-out garlic bulbs or atop a bed of vibrant quinoa or cauliflower rice for a modern twist. Layering it over a fresh garden salad also turns it into a delightful lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. This prevents texture loss and preserves flavor when reheated.
Reheating
Gently reheat the shrimp scampi on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of wine or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the sauce separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well as long as you thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release too much moisture.
What pasta pairs best with shrimp scampi?
Angel hair or linguine are classic choices because their delicate strands catch the buttery garlic sauce beautifully, but any pasta you love will work wonderfully.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to retain the creamy texture without dairy.
Is white wine necessary for the sauce?
White wine adds acidity and depth that elevate the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken or vegetable broth with a squeeze of extra lemon juice makes a great substitute.
How spicy is the shrimp scampi?
This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe isn’t spicy by default; however, you can add red pepper flakes during cooking if you want a little kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a way to indulge in restaurant-quality seafood without leaving home, this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is a must-try. It’s approachable, full of vibrant flavors, and bound to become a favorite in your kitchen just like it has in mine. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed at how easily you can create that iconic Red Lobster experience for yourself and your loved ones.
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Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe offers a deliciously tangy and buttery seafood dish perfect for a quick dinner. Tender shrimp are sautéed and then coated in a rich sauce made with garlic, white wine, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, this flavorful dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or pasta.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon pure olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended)
- 1/2 fresh lemon, juice only
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until tender and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and reduce wine: In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 2-3 minutes. Add white wine and lemon juice, cooking until the wine reduces by half, about 5 minutes.
- Add seasoning and butter: Stir in Italian seasoning. Reduce heat to low, then add softened butter, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine shrimp with sauce: Return shrimp to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Serve: Enjoy the shrimp scampi hot with crusty bread, over pasta, or your preferred side dish.
Notes
- Use Chardonnay for the white wine for best flavor.
- Do not overcook shrimp to keep them tender.
- Serve immediately for optimal taste and texture.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nice savory touch; omit for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh parsley brightens the dish but can be substituted with dried if necessary.
