Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

There's something truly magical about the first bite of Red Lobster's Shrimp Scampi — buttery, garlicky, and perfectly seasoned, it’s pure comfort on a plate. The way the shrimp turn pink and juicy, soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce, instantly transports you to a cozy seafood dinner by the coast.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with this dish during a family celebration years ago. After the first forkful, I knew I had to recreate it at home. Turns out, it’s surprisingly simple and quick — making it a staple whenever we crave restaurant-quality seafood without leaving the house.

Let's dive into what makes this recipe a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Get ready to discover your new favorite seafood dinner. This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi isn't just packed with flavor — it’s also incredibly simple to whip up any night of the week.

First, it’s incredibly fast. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 20 minutes. That’s right — gourmet flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also budget-friendly. A bag of frozen shrimp, a few pantry staples like butter and garlic, and you’re ready to go. No need for expensive seafood restaurant tabs when you can make it better at home.

The flavors are simply irresistible. The garlic butter sauce seeps into every bite of shrimp, creating a rich, savory experience that’s balanced with a splash of fresh lemon.

And best of all, it’s versatile. Serve it over pasta, alongside a crusty loaf of bread, or even with a side of steamed vegetables — it fits beautifully into any meal plan.

Once you try this at home, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings a special touch to the final dish, making every bite unforgettable.

Shrimp are, of course, the star. I recommend using large or jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen both work well — just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking.

Butter forms the rich, luxurious base of the sauce. Opt for real, unsalted butter if possible; it gives you better control over the final saltiness of the dish.

Garlic is what makes the scampi shine. Freshly minced garlic is key — the aroma as it sizzles in butter is absolutely mouthwatering.

White wine adds a delicate, sophisticated note that really elevates the dish. Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer to cook without alcohol, a splash of chicken broth works too.

You’ll also need a good lemon for that fresh, zesty finish. Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the whole dish and balances the richness perfectly.

As for equipment, a large skillet is essential — one that allows the shrimp to cook evenly without overcrowding. A garlic press can also make prepping faster if you're short on time.

How To Make This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Bringing this dish to life is easier than you might think. Let’s walk through it step-by-step.

Start by melting a generous amount of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is sizzling but not browned, add your minced garlic. Stir frequently, letting the garlic become fragrant without burning — this takes about a minute.

Next, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them — shrimp can go from tender to rubbery in a flash!

Once the shrimp are cooked, add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up all the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom — they’re pure gold! Let the wine simmer for about two minutes to reduce slightly.

Now, squeeze in your fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently to coat the shrimp in the buttery, garlicky sauce.

From start to finish, the whole process should only take about 20 minutes. What you’ll end up with is a pan full of shrimp that’s bursting with bright, rich, and savory flavors — perfect for any occasion.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though it's rare because it's so delicious!), storing your shrimp scampi is easy.

Place any cooled leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days.

For freezing, it’s best to freeze just the shrimp without the sauce if possible. Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within one month for the best texture.

When reheating, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the reasons I love this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi so much is how customizable it is to your tastes and pantry.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter before adding the shrimp. It adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish.

You can easily swap the shrimp for other seafood, too. Scallops, lobster tails, or even chunks of white fish work beautifully with the same garlicky butter sauce.

Want a lighter option? Replace the butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of wine for a healthier twist that’s still full of flavor.

If you’re dairy-free, a high-quality vegan butter can replace traditional butter without sacrificing that creamy, decadent mouthfeel.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs. Fresh basil, thyme, or even oregano can give the scampi a unique flavor twist that’s perfect for summer dinners.

The beauty of homemade shrimp scampi is that it’s yours to make your own — and once you master the base, the possibilities are endless.

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