If you have ever dreamed of capturing that perfectly buttery, garlicky, and irresistibly savory seafood experience at home, this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender shrimp bathed in a rich garlic and white wine sauce, laced with lemon’s brightness and accented by a sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley. It’s a restaurant favorite reinvented for your kitchen that delivers stunning results every single time, impressing family and guests alike with flavors that sing of comfort and elegance.

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component is essential, providing a perfect balance of richness, tang, fresh herbaceous notes, and that signature buttery silkiness you crave in a shrimp scampi.

1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that soaks up all the delicious sauce while staying tender and juicy.
1 tablespoon pure olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity depth while preventing the shrimp from sticking to the skillet.
2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped: Builds the bold aromatic foundation that defines scampi.
1 1/2 cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended): Creates a luscious, slightly acidic base that brightens and balances the buttery sauce.
1/2 fresh lemon, juice only: Injects zesty freshness to lift the flavors and keep things vibrant.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings in warm, herbal undertones for depth and complexity.
1/2 cup softened butter: Makes the sauce velvety smooth and indulgently rich.
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: Offers a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note as a finishing touch.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that enhances every bite.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the layers of flavor.

How to Make Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp to Perfection

Start by heating that pure olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook them until they turn tender and opaque, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should be firm but juicy, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside – don’t worry, the best part is coming when you bring the sauce and shrimp back together.

Step 2: Build the Flavorful Garlic and Wine Sauce

In the same skillet, use the flavorful oil left behind and sauté your finely chopped garlic gently until fragrant but not browned—about 2 to 3 minutes. This gentle sautéing releases all those garlicky goodness aromas that set the stage for the dish. Next, pour in the white wine and fresh lemon juice, letting the mixture simmer and reduce by half over approximately 5 minutes. This reduction intensifies the flavors and naturally thickens the base without adding heaviness.

Step 3: Add Herbs and Creamy Butter

Now stir in the Italian seasoning, letting those warm, earthy herbs mingle with the wine and lemon. Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the softened butter, stirring constantly until it melts completely and creates a luscious, smooth sauce. This step is where the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe gets that ultra-silky texture and comforting richness that makes it so crave-worthy.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked shrimp to your skillet, gently tossing them to coat generously in the silky sauce. Stir in the bright chopped parsley, and season the entire dish with salt and freshly ground pepper to your taste. Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, melting slightly from the warmth, adding a salty and nutty layer that elevates this scampi to pure delight.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Your Creation

The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is best enjoyed right away while it’s fresh and warm. Whether paired with crusty bread to sop up every last drop or served atop steaming pasta, this dish hits every note you want in a luxurious seafood meal.

How to Serve Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of extra chopped parsley not only adds a vibrant green pop but also freshens each bite. A thin wedge of lemon on the side lets guests add a hint more acidity if they desire, heightening the brightness of the seafood.

Side Dishes

This shrimp scampi shines beautifully paired with buttery garlic bread, which is perfect for dipping into the sauce. You can also serve it over angel hair or linguine pasta for a classic presentation. Light steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad offer a perfect counterbalance to the richness of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, serve the shrimp scampi in individual shallow bowls with a swirl of sauce around the edges and a sprinkle of Parmesan. You can also use it as a stunning topping for creamy polenta or alongside roasted potatoes for a comforting twist. Presentation can be as simple or as fancy as you like; the flavors do all the work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from your Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe feast, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will keep well for up to two days, allowing you to savor the flavors again without compromise.

Freezing

Freezing shrimp scampi is not recommended because the shrimp’s texture and the delicate sauce may suffer. It’s best to enjoy this recipe fresh for optimal taste and mouthfeel.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of white wine or a little extra butter can help restore the sauce’s silkiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery and the sauce separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent proper searing.

What type of pasta pairs best with this shrimp scampi?

Angel hair or linguine are classic choices because their thin strands hold the sauce beautifully without overpowering the delicate shrimp flavors.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid serving it with wheat-based pasta or bread. Swap with gluten-free pasta or enjoy with steamed vegetables or rice instead.

Can I substitute the white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice can work, though the depth of flavor will be slightly different. Opt for a dry white wine for the closest match.

How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn opaque and pink, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so keep a close eye—they cook quickly!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about recreating the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s a dish that feels indulgent and refined but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a celebration meal, this recipe promises warm, buttery, garlicky bliss in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a treasured favorite you’ll return to again and again.