Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a beloved seafood classic known for its tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce with white wine and a hint of lemon. This dish perfectly balances rich, buttery flavors with a fresh, citrusy tang, making it an ideal choice for an elegant dinner that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
The recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your table, with shrimp that’s perfectly cooked and coated in a silky sauce. Whether served over pasta, alongside crusty bread, or as a standalone dish, it’s a recipe that impresses with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Restaurant Quality: Enjoy the flavors of Red Lobster from the comfort of your own kitchen.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
• Rich and Flavorful: A buttery, garlicky sauce enhanced with white wine and lemon juice.
Ingredients
• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon pure olive oil
• 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
• 1½ cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended)
• Juice of ½ fresh lemon
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup softened butter
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until tender and no longer translucent, about 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
1. Lower the heat and add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet.
2. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, without letting the garlic brown to avoid bitterness.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
1. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
2. Cook until the wine is reduced by half, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Once reduced, stir in the Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Butter
1. Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the softened butter to the skillet, stirring constantly.
2. Ensure the pan is not too hot to prevent the butter from separating.
Step 5: Combine and Garnish
1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the sauce.
2. Add chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips
• Choose the Right Wine: Use a dry white wine like Chardonnay for the best flavor. Avoid cooking wines.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook just until opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
• Make It Your Own: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or more lemon juice for extra tang.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe delivers all the rich, buttery goodness of the original, making it a standout dish for any seafood lover. It’s quick, elegant, and utterly delicious—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy!