Get ready to indulge in the ultimate seafood classic with this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi! Picture plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, kissed by white wine and fresh lemon, then finished with a flourish of Parmesan and parsley. It’s a dinner that feels both decadent and delightfully simple, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal at home. Trust me, once you master this recipe, the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi will quickly become your go-to for unforgettable flavor and easy elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in the straightforward, high-quality ingredients that come together for irresistible flavor and aroma. Each component brings something essential to the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi—nothing extravagant, but absolutely everything you crave in a seafood favorite!
- Shrimp (1 lb, medium, peeled and deveined): For the star ingredient, choose medium shrimp that are already cleaned for ultimate convenience and unbeatable texture.
- Pure Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): This forms the savory base for sautéing the shrimp, and also helps prevent sticking.
- Garlic (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Essential for that signature, mouthwatering aroma and flavor; use fresh garlic for best results.
- White Wine (1 1/2 cups, Chardonnay recommended): Adds lovely depth and acidity, creating a luscious sauce that envelops every shrimp.
- Lemon Juice (juice of 1/2 fresh lemon): Don’t skip the real lemon—it brightens the entire dish and balances the richness.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings an herby warmth that harmonizes beautifully with the savory garlic and wine.
- Butter (1/2 cup, softened): This is where the magic happens! Butter melts into the sauce, creating a silky, restaurant-style finish.
- Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds a welcome pop of freshness and color right before serving.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): For irresistible umami and to bring everything together with a slightly salty, cheesy bite.
How to Make Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—a simple first step that starts building flavor right away. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Sauté them just until they turn pink, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Be sure not to overcook; you want the shrimp tender and juicy. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside so they don’t dry out.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in your finely chopped garlic. Those golden bits will infuse the oil with unmistakable aroma, making your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria! Stir constantly and sauté for about a minute—just until you catch that fragrance wafting up. Watch carefully so the garlic doesn’t brown, as burnt garlic can give a bitter edge to your Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi.
Step 3: Add the Wine and Lemon Juice
Pour in the white wine and the juice from half a fresh lemon. This step not only deglazes the pan, capturing all the delicious fond from the shrimp and garlic, but also builds the tangy, bright backbone of the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for two to three minutes; this concentrates the flavors and starts to reduce the liquid a bit.
Step 4: Season and Add Butter
Now stir in the Italian seasoning to layer in those classic Mediterranean herb notes. Add the softened butter bit by bit, stirring constantly as it melts into the wine and garlic, transforming the sauce into a velvety, glossy blanket just waiting for the shrimp to return.
Step 5: Return the Shrimp to the Skillet
Gently return your sautéed shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlicky, buttery sauce. Let them heat through for another one to two minutes so they’re perfectly coated and warmed, absorbing every last bit of that deliciousness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and scatter with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve your Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi immediately—ideally with crusty bread for sopping up the dreamy sauce, or atop your favorite pasta.
How to Serve Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan work wonders here, adding color and a pop of flavor. For extra flair, a few fresh lemon wedges on the side let guests add zestiness to taste. If you like a touch of heat, a flick of red pepper flakes looks beautiful and feels deliciously inviting.
Side Dishes
The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi pairs incredibly well with simple sides that let the sauce shine. Try serving it with warm, crusty artisan bread, fluffy garlic mashed potatoes, or classic linguine for an authentic feel. A crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette helps balance out the richness and keeps the meal lively.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow your dinner crowd? Try serving the shrimp over creamy polenta or in mini ramekins as appetizer portions for a party. Layer atop zoodles or roasted veggies for a lighter twist. The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is versatile enough for elegant plating—think a swirl of pasta, shrimp arranged on top, and sauce drizzled over with parsley sprinkled at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually meld a bit overnight, making the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi just as delightful for lunch the next day.
Freezing
While shrimp can sometimes toughen with freezing, you can freeze this dish in a pinch. Cool the scampi completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and expect the sauce to need a quick stir to reincorporate.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen things back up.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you use frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Just pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the skillet and keep the flavors concentrated.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the wine?
Yes! Replace the wine with low-sodium chicken or seafood broth and a splash more lemon juice. The depth of flavor will still be delicious and well-balanced in your Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely—with one little adjustment. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free; just pair your Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi with gluten-free pasta or rice, and double-check that your Parmesan is certified gluten-free if needed.
What’s the best way to reheat shrimp scampi without overcooking?
Low and slow is your best friend! Warm the dish in a skillet on low heat, stirring gently until just heated through. This keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce silky.
Could I add vegetables to the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
Absolutely! Try tossing in baby spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced zucchini right after the wine reduces but before you add the shrimp back to the pan. They’ll cook quickly and meld perfectly with all the flavor.
Final Thoughts
There are good reasons the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi has legions of devoted fans—it’s quick, utterly delicious, and brings a hearty taste of the seaside right to your kitchen. I hope this version finds a warm spot in your dinner rotation and stirs up memories of relaxed meals with loved ones. You really do owe it to yourself to try this recipe at home—dig in with joy!