Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

The irresistible aroma of garlic butter and white wine fills your kitchen as tender shrimp sizzle in the pan, creating the unmistakable scent of the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. This iconic seafood dish captures the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors with delicate shellfish in a way that’s made Red Lobster a household name. Whether you’ve enjoyed this restaurant favorite or are discovering it for the first time, recreating this luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish at home elevates any dinner occasion from ordinary to extraordinary. You’ll learn how to perfectly cook shrimp, create that signature buttery garlic sauce, and plate this restaurant-quality dish like a professional chef.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi stands apart from ordinary seafood dishes for several compelling reasons. First, it transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular – plump, succulent shrimp bathed in a velvety garlic butter sauce that’s both rich and refreshing. The contrast between the tender shrimp and the slightly crisp edges they develop when properly sautéed creates a textural masterpiece in every bite.

Unlike many restaurant copycat recipes, this Red Lobster classic is remarkably approachable for home cooks of any skill level. The entire dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The sauce achieves the perfect balance – light enough to let the shrimp shine while flavorful enough to make you want to soak up every last drop with a piece of crusty bread.

What truly makes this shrimp scampi recipe unforgettable is its versatility. Serve it over pasta, alongside rice, or simply with bread for an impressive meal that feels like dining out while enjoying all the comforts of home.

Ingredients

For the perfect Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, gather these essential ingredients:

• 1½ pounds (680g) large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined with tails on
• 8 tablespoons (113g) unsalted butter, divided
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• ¼ cup (60ml) dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 medium lemon)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional but recommended)

The quality of shrimp makes a significant difference in this dish – look for wild-caught shrimp when possible for the best flavor. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable here; pre-minced varieties simply won’t provide the aromatic punch that makes Red Lobster’s shrimp scampi so distinctive. For the wine, choose something you’d enjoy drinking, as its flavor concentrates during cooking and becomes an essential component of the sauce.

Pro Tips

Select and Prepare Shrimp Properly
The foundation of exceptional Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi begins with properly handled shrimp. Always thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight rather than using warm water, which can affect texture. Pat the shrimp completely dry before cooking – this crucial step ensures they sear rather than steam, developing that coveted light golden crust. While peeling and deveining is necessary, leaving the tails on adds both visual appeal and enhances flavor development during cooking.

Perfect the Butter-to-Garlic Ratio
The signature sauce relies on properly cooking garlic in butter without burning. Start with half the butter (4 tablespoons) over medium heat, adding the garlic only when the butter is melted but before it browns. Cook the garlic for exactly 30-45 seconds until fragrant but still pale – this precise timing prevents bitterness while extracting maximum flavor. Adding the remaining butter in small pieces after the wine reduces creates the emulsified, silky texture that distinguishes restaurant-quality scampi.

Master the Cooking Temperature
The single most common mistake when preparing shrimp scampi is overcooking the shrimp. Cook them for just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remember that shrimp continue cooking even after removed from heat, so err on the side of undercooking rather than overcooking. For the perfect finish, remove the pan from heat before stirring in the final tablespoon of butter and fresh herbs, allowing them to gently melt into the sauce without breaking the emulsion.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start with properly thawed shrimp if using frozen. Rinse them under cold water, then pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season shrimp evenly with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. This initial seasoning creates the first layer of flavor for your Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi.

Step 2: Create the Base Sauce

In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it begins to foam slightly. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring continuously for 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown. You’re creating the aromatic foundation that gives this dish its distinctive character.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the prepared shrimp to the pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd (work in batches if necessary). Allow the shrimp to cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until they begin to turn pink and slightly golden on the bottom. Flip each shrimp and cook for an additional 1 minute. The shrimp should be just turning opaque but still slightly tender in the center.

Step 4: Deglaze and Finish the Sauce

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, allowing the liquid to sizzle and reduce for about 2-3 minutes while scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing process concentrates the flavors and creates that signature Red Lobster scampi sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in small pieces, swirling the pan gently until the butter melts and creates a smooth, emulsified sauce.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove the pan from heat completely and sprinkle in the fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if using. Gently toss the shrimp in the sauce to coat evenly. The residual heat will warm everything through without overcooking the delicate shrimp. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Your homemade Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is now ready to be served immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Variations

Creamy Scampi
Transform the classic Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi into a richer version by adding ¼ cup of heavy cream after the wine has reduced. This creates a silky, more substantial sauce that clings beautifully to pasta. For an extra touch of elegance, fold in 2 tablespoons of mascarpone cheese just before serving for an ultra-luxurious texture without overwhelming the delicate seafood flavors.

Mediterranean Shrimp Scampi
Give your shrimp scampi a Mediterranean twist by adding ½ cup halved cherry tomatoes and ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives when you add the white wine. Finish with 2 tablespoons of crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil instead of parsley. This variation brings bright acidity and briny depth that complements the garlic butter sauce wonderfully while creating a colorful presentation.

Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free Adaptation
For dietary restrictions, this beloved Red Lobster shrimp recipe can be modified without sacrificing flavor. Substitute the butter with 6 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil plus 2 tablespoons of dairy-free butter substitute for richness. The olive oil creates a lighter sauce with a distinct Mediterranean character that many find even more compatible with seafood. Serve over gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice for a completely allergen-friendly meal.

Storage and Serving

Proper Storage
While Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or white wine to revitalize the sauce, being extremely careful not to overcook the shrimp. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of both the shrimp and sauce will significantly deteriorate.

Serving Suggestions
For an authentic Red Lobster experience, serve your shrimp scampi alongside their famous Cheddar Bay biscuits. The buttery, garlicky biscuits perfectly complement the rich scampi sauce. For a complete meal, present the scampi over al dente linguine or angel hair pasta, allowing the thin noodles to capture the delicious sauce. Add a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.

For an elegant presentation, serve the Red Lobster shrimp scampi in individual gratin dishes with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This creates a restaurant-worthy presentation perfect for dinner parties. For a lighter option, pair with steamed asparagus or roasted broccolini and a side of lemon rice, allowing the vegetables to soak up some of that irresistible sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly well. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results, then pat thoroughly dry before cooking to achieve the proper sear.

What’s the best wine to use in shrimp scampi?
A dry, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or unoaked Chardonnay works best. Avoid sweet wines as they can make the sauce cloying. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with chicken broth plus 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.

Why are my shrimp tough and rubbery?
Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Remember that shrimp cook extremely quickly—just 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. They’ll continue cooking slightly after removing from heat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best prepared just before serving, but you can prep all ingredients in advance. For a partial make-ahead option, prepare the garlic butter sauce up to 4 hours ahead and reheat gently before quickly cooking the shrimp.

What’s the difference between scampi and shrimp scampi?
Traditionally, scampi refers to langoustines or Dublin Bay prawns, while shrimp scampi is the Americanized version using shrimp in the classic garlic, butter and wine preparation that Red Lobster has made famous.

Conclusion

This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is comfort food at its finest — luxurious yet approachable, with tender shrimp swimming in a garlicky butter sauce that transports you straight to your favorite seafood restaurant. It’s the kind of dish that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Whether served over pasta, alongside crusty bread, or as part of an elegant seafood feast, this Red Lobster classic proves that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most unforgettable meals. Master this recipe, and you’ll always have a impressive yet effortless dish in your culinary arsenal for any occasion that calls for something special.

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