Iconic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe Made Simple at Home

Seafood enthusiasts adore this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen.

Succulent shrimp dance in a buttery, garlic-infused sauce that promises pure culinary delight.

Tender and juicy, these plump shellfish practically melt in your mouth with each incredible bite.

The combination of fresh ingredients creates a symphony of taste that elevates any weeknight dinner.

Packed with rich, zesty flavors, this classic dish requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum satisfaction.

Butter, garlic, and perfectly cooked shrimp come together in a simple yet elegant meal that will impress everyone at the table.

Prepare to savor every delectable moment of this irresistible seafood sensation.

Great Variations for Classic Shrimp Scampi

• Keto-Friendly Seafood Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates. Use grass-fed butter and ensure all ingredients align with ketogenic diet requirements.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap butter with coconut oil or olive oil. Eliminate Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor profile. Select dairy-free alternatives that maintain the recipe's original richness.
• Gluten-Free Version: Verify all seasonings are gluten-free certified. Serve over quinoa or brown rice instead of traditional pasta. Choose gluten-free ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.
• Protein Alternative: Substitute shrimp with chicken or scallops for varied protein options. Maintain similar cooking techniques and seasoning levels to preserve the original recipe's essence and flavor complexity.

FAQs

• How do I prevent my shrimp from becoming tough and rubbery?

Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat immediately once they’re done to avoid overcooking, which makes them chewy and less enjoyable.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are completely thawed, peeled, and deveined before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.

• What if I don't have a cast iron skillet?

You can use any heavy-bottomed skillet or non-stick pan. The key is maintaining consistent medium heat and avoiding burning the garlic or butter.

• Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan adds rich flavor, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or skip it entirely if you prefer. The sauce will still be delicious.

Why Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Is a Fan Favorite

• This shrimp scampi recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal kitchen skills required, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels.
• The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, luxurious sauce that transforms simple shrimp into a gourmet meal that'll impress family and friends.
• From start to finish, this dish comes together in just minutes, offering a speedy solution for busy individuals craving a delicious seafood dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Whether you prefer serving over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this adaptable recipe allows you to customize your meal and soak up every delectable drop of the incredible sauce.

Ingredients for Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the star of this classic scampi dish.

• Garlic, Italian Seasoning, Parsley: Classic herbs and spices that provide depth and traditional Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the dish.

• Olive Oil: High-quality cooking oil that helps sear and add subtle richness to the shrimp.
• Butter: Softened dairy product that creates a smooth, creamy sauce with rich flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and salty cheese that adds a savory finishing touch to the scampi.

Easy Steps for Making Shrimp Scampi at Home

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels.

Ensure they are completely peeled and deveined before cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.

Carefully place shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and become opaque.

Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create Flavor Base

Lower the heat to medium-low and add chopped garlic to the skillet.

Gently stir for 2-3 minutes until aromatic, being careful not to brown the garlic.

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and mix well.

Step 4: Develop Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low and gradually incorporate softened butter, adding one piece at a time.

Maintain low heat to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Return cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly in the sauce.

Add chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to personal taste.

Step 6: Add Cheese Layers

Sprinkle half the Parmesan cheese over the shrimp while in the skillet.

Reserve remaining cheese for final garnish when serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the shrimp scampi immediately while hot.

• Pasta
• Rice
• Crusty bread

Ensure to drizzle the extra garlicky, buttery sauce over the dish for maximum flavor.

Smart Cooking Tips for Shrimp Scampi Success

• Peel and devein shrimp before cooking to ensure clean, tender bites and save time during the actual cooking process.
• Cook shrimp only 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, removing them immediately to maintain their delicate, juicy texture.
• Sauté garlic on medium-low heat to release flavor without burning, which can create a bitter taste in your sauce.
• Incorporate softened butter slowly over low heat to create a smooth, creamy sauce that won't separate or become greasy.
• Sprinkle half the Parmesan in the skillet and reserve the rest for topping, ensuring a rich cheese flavor in every bite.

How to Store and Warm Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

• Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 1-2 days maximum to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled shrimp scampi to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Seal tightly, removing excess air. Frozen scampi can last up to 3 months without significant flavor loss.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
• Place shrimp scampi in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

What Goes Great with Shrimp Scampi

• Perfectly Matched Wine Pairing: Choose a crisp, light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the delicate shrimp and cuts through the rich buttery sauce.
• Bread Companion Choice: Select a crusty sourdough or garlic bread that will soak up the incredible sauce, providing a perfect textural contrast and additional flavor absorption.
• Vegetable Sidekick Selection: Roast some asparagus or sauté green beans with a touch of garlic to provide a fresh, green element that balances the richness of the shrimp scampi and adds nutritional depth to the meal.
• Flavor-Enhancing Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped chives or additional parsley over the dish to brighten the flavors, add a pop of color, and introduce a subtle herbal note that elevates the entire culinary experience.

Easy Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Seafood dreams come alive with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, a classic dish that whispers coastal comfort and zesty Mediterranean flavors. Succulent shrimp bathe in garlic butter sauce, promising restaurant-quality magic you can recreate with simple ingredients and minimal cooking skills.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup (115 g) softened butter
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan-style cheese (non-animal rennet, divided)

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1/2 fresh lemon, juice only
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Base:

• 1 tablespoon pure olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare shrimp by thoroughly cleaning, removing shells and veins. Rinse under cold water and carefully dry with paper towels to ensure optimal sauce adherence.
2. Select a cast iron skillet and warm over medium heat. Pour olive oil and allow it to reach a gentle shimmer before introducing shrimp in a single, uncrowded layer.
3. Cook shrimp approximately 2-3 minutes per side until they transform into a delicate pink color and appear translucent. Immediately transfer cooked shrimp to a separate plate to prevent overcooking.
4. Reduce skillet temperature to medium-low. Introduce minced garlic, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until aromatic but not browned, which could create an unpleasant bitter undertone.
5. Sprinkle Italian seasoning into the skillet, mixing thoroughly with garlic to release complex flavors.
6. Lower heat and gradually incorporate softened butter, one portion at a time. Maintain gentle temperature to preserve sauce’s smooth, luxurious consistency.
7. Reintroduce cooked shrimp into the skillet, gently coating each piece with the rich, herb-infused butter sauce.
8. Incorporate fresh chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper according to personal preference.
9. Generously dust half the Parmesan cheese over the shrimp while still in the skillet, reserving remaining cheese for final garnish.
10. Serve immediately over preferred accompaniment like pasta or rice, ensuring each plate receives an abundant drizzle of the decadent sauce.

Notes

• Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture, preferably wild-caught or sustainably sourced.
• Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden sear and prevent steaming.
• Control heat carefully to prevent rubbery shrimp and maintain delicate, tender meat.
• Opt for unsalted butter to control salt levels and allow more precise seasoning.
• Replace wheat pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil and skip Parmesan cheese.
• For extra richness, add a splash of white wine when cooking garlic for deeper Mediterranean flavor.
• Peel and devein shrimp in advance and store in sealed container for faster cooking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg