If you have ever dreamed of recreating restaurant-quality seafood at home, then this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe will absolutely steal your heart and taste buds. Bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness, tender shrimp cooked in a luscious white wine sauce, and topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan, this dish brings the kind of comforting, indulgent flavors that make you want to invite friends over just to share it. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just craving something elegant yet simple, this recipe captures the essence of a classic dish that never goes out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe. Here, simplicity rules, but each component plays a crucial role in bringing out the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color you expect in this dish.
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, tender and juicy shrimp ensure a perfect seafood experience.
- 1 tablespoon pure olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and a perfect sear for the shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped: Infuses the dish with the signature aromatic punch that shrimp scampi is known for.
- 1 1/2 cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended): Brings acidity and depth, creating a sauce that’s both vibrant and soothing.
- 1/2 fresh lemon, juice only: Brightens the sauce with fresh citrus zing that balances the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings subtle herbal notes that add complexity without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/2 cup softened butter: Provides the silky, luscious texture that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: Adds color and a fresh, grassy finish to the rich sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a savory, slightly nutty contrast.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
How to Make Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Begin by heating the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the shrimp. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn tender, opaque, and just perfectly pink. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye. Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside to keep warm. This step ensures that the shrimp stay juicy and ready to soak up the scampi sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the finely chopped garlic. Sauté it gently for 2 to 3 minutes, but be cautious not to brown or burn the garlic as that can bring bitterness. The goal here is to release all those intoxicating garlic aromas that make scampi so mouthwatering. Once fragrant, you’re ready for the next crucial step.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
Pour in the white wine and fresh lemon juice. These liquids will deglaze the pan, picking up all the flavorful bits left behind from cooking the shrimp and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer until the wine reduces by half, which should take about 5 minutes. This reduction intensifies the flavors without making the sauce too watery, forming the heart of the famous scampi sauce.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the Italian seasoning to add a subtle herbaceous layer. Then, reduce the heat to low and add the softened butter gradually, stirring constantly until it melts completely and creates a smooth, velvety sauce. Returning the shrimp to the skillet, gently toss to coat them in this rich sauce. Add the chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top for a savory finish.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and hot to savor every nuance of its creamy, tangy sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp. Whether spooned over pasta or accompanied by bread for dipping, this dish is as satisfying as it is impressive.
How to Serve Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a twist of lemon zest brighten this dish beautifully. The green of the parsley not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds a fresh burst that contrasts the rich sauce. A few Parmesan shavings on top add a lovely, cheesy finish that guests will appreciate.
Side Dishes
Traditional pasta tossed in olive oil or butter is the go-to accompaniment for the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe. However, serving it alongside crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad can also elevate the meal. The bread helps soak up the heavenly sauce, making every bite irresistible, while the salad provides a refreshing counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the shrimp scampi over a bed of zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist, or layer it atop creamy polenta for an elegant, hearty dinner. For gatherings, try presenting individual shrimp scampi servings in small bowls garnished with microgreens and lemon wedges for a charming appetizer style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp scampi should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoyed within 2 days. The butter-based sauce can firm up in the fridge, so when ready to eat, reheat gently to preserve the silky texture without overcooking the shrimp.
Freezing
Freezing shrimp scampi is possible but not ideal because the texture of shrimp can change after thawing. If you must freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the shrimp scampi gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and the shrimp tender. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and rubbery shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before cooking to avoid excess water diluting your sauce.
What type of white wine is best for shrimp scampi?
A dry white wine like Chardonnay works wonderfully, offering a good balance of acidity and flavor depth without overpowering the dish.
Can I substitute butter with olive oil?
You can, but butter gives the sauce its classic richness and smooth mouthfeel that olive oil alone can’t replicate.
Is this recipe spicy?
The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is traditionally mild and buttery, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
How long does the cooking process take?
From start to finish, plan about 25 minutes, including prep and cooking, making it a great option for a quick, impressive meal.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe—the perfect harmony of garlic, butter, wine, and shrimp that sings comfort and sophistication in every bite. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite and a dinner party showstopper. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did.
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Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Seafood
Description
This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe features tender, juicy shrimp cooked in a flavorful garlic, white wine, and butter sauce. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and finished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, this dish is quick to prepare and ideal for serving over pasta or alongside crusty bread for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon pure olive oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups white wine (Chardonnay recommended)
- 1/2 fresh lemon, juice only
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until tender and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- Deglaze with Wine and Lemon: Pour in the white wine and squeeze in the lemon juice. Cook the mixture until the wine is reduced by half, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add Seasoning and Butter: Stir in the Italian seasoning, then reduce the heat to low. Add the softened butter gradually, stirring continuously until the sauce is melted and smooth.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them thoroughly in the sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp scampi and serve immediately.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your shrimp scampi hot, paired with crusty bread or served over your choice of pasta or side dish.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use Chardonnay or a dry white wine for the best flavor profile in this dish.
- If you prefer a less rich sauce, reduce the butter quantity to 1/4 cup.
- Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness; substitute with fresh basil for a flavor twist.
- Can be served gluten-free when paired with gluten-free pasta or bread.
