Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's something irresistible about the aroma of sizzling garlic butter filling the kitchen when you make this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. Each tender shrimp is bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce that's brightened with fresh lemon, making it absolutely unforgettable.

I first fell in love with this dish after a celebratory dinner at Red Lobster years ago. The taste haunted me until I finally decided to recreate it at home. Now, it’s a go-to favorite whenever we crave restaurant-style seafood without leaving the house.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a special treat for guests, or a budget-friendly seafood splurge, this shrimp scampi ticks all the boxes. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to meet your new favorite seafood recipe. This shrimp scampi is luxurious, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make.

First off, it's incredibly fast to whip up. In less than 30 minutes, you'll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Another huge plus? It's easy on your wallet. You can recreate this high-end dish at home for a fraction of what you'd spend dining out, especially if you catch shrimp on sale.

Let's talk flavor. This scampi is packed with bright, buttery, garlicky goodness, balanced with a hint of acidity from fresh lemon juice. It’s indulgent without being heavy.

Finally, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad, everyone will be asking for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi lies in its simplicity. A few key ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish.

Shrimp are the star here. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, but with the tails left on for that authentic restaurant presentation. Fresh is best, but frozen shrimp work perfectly if thawed properly.

Butter provides the luscious base for the sauce. I recommend using unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the final dish. High-quality butter makes a noticeable difference here.

Garlic brings the bold flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced for the best aroma and taste. Sautéing it gently in butter releases its sweetness and reduces any harshness.

White wine gives the sauce a depth of flavor that's key to its restaurant-quality taste. Choose a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer not to cook with alcohol, you can substitute with chicken broth.

Lemon juice and parsley finish the dish with freshness and color. Freshly squeezed lemon is a must for that bright zing, and chopped fresh parsley adds a beautiful pop.

You'll also need a large skillet and a good set of tongs to turn the shrimp easily without tearing them.

How To Make This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Creating this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi at home couldn't be easier, and the results are spectacular.

Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant — be careful not to let it brown, or it will taste bitter.

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and just cooked through. You want them tender, not rubbery, so watch them closely.

Next, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. This intensifies the flavors and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the shrimp.

Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and toss the shrimp gently to coat them well. At this point, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Finally, sprinkle over the fresh parsley, give everything a final stir, and remove the pan from heat. Your shrimp scampi is ready to serve!

From start to finish, the entire process should take about 20-25 minutes. Quick, easy, and utterly delicious.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them properly to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Place the cooled shrimp and sauce into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, seafood is best enjoyed fresh, so don't wait too long.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat until just heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

I don't recommend freezing this dish, as the texture of the shrimp can become unpleasant once thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is its versatility.

Want to make it a full meal? Serve the shrimp and sauce over linguine or angel hair pasta for a heartier dish. Be sure to reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce.

For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

If you don't have white wine on hand, chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar makes a good non-alcoholic substitute.

Don't be afraid to get creative! Sometimes I toss in a handful of sautéed mushrooms or asparagus for extra veggies and color.

Making this dish your own is half the fun. Enjoy experimenting and savor every buttery, garlicky bite!

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