Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

If you’re a fan of Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi, then you’re in for a treat. This homemade version captures all the buttery, garlicky goodness of the restaurant classic, but it’s even better because you made it yourself! Picture succulent shrimp swimming in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, kissed with a hint of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley. It’s a quick and easy dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table.

This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is perfect for a date night, a special family dinner, or anytime you want to indulge in something truly delicious. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or on its own—no matter how you enjoy it, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Recipe Summary

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish that features tender shrimp in a garlic butter sauce. With a touch of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this scampi is bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick way to enjoy a restaurant favorite at home.

Exciting Story

I remember the first time my husband and I went to Red Lobster; we were just dating back then. He ordered the Shrimp Scampi, and after the first bite, I knew it was something special. We both fell in love with that dish, and every time we visited, it was a must-have on our table. Fast forward a few years, and I decided to recreate it at home. Let me tell you, the homemade version was an even bigger hit! Now, it’s a staple in our household, and every time we have it, it brings back those fond memories of our early dates. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of our journey together.

Why This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy the flavors of Red Lobster’s famous Shrimp Scampi without leaving your kitchen.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Versatile Dish: Serve over pasta, with garlic bread, or enjoy it on its own—this scampi pairs well with many sides.
• Flavorful: A rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and fresh parsley makes this dish irresistible.

How to Make Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant, but not browned.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Add the red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced and the shrimp are fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with crusty bread. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
• Deglaze the Pan: After cooking the shrimp, deglaze the pan with the white wine or broth to pick up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Scampi: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast slices for a different take on this classic dish.
• Gluten-Free: Serve the shrimp scampi over gluten-free pasta or with gluten-free bread.
• Vegetarian: Replace the shrimp with mushrooms or zucchini slices for a vegetarian version.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lighten the Butter: Use half the amount of butter and substitute the rest with olive oil to reduce saturated fat.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Serve over whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth instead of white wine for a lower-sodium option.

Closing

And there you have it! A mouthwatering Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi that you can whip up in the comfort of your own home. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and it just might become your new favorite seafood recipe. Don’t forget to let us know how it turns out, and be sure to check out our other seafood-inspired recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking.

What type of white wine is best?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce separately and combine them just before serving.

What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, and a side of steamed vegetables.

Can I add vegetables to the scampi?
Absolutely! Try adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little extra butter or olive oil.