Craving the iconic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi but want to make it at home? This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. With succulent shrimp, a buttery garlic sauce, and a hint of lemon, this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is bursting with flavor and ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy date night, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive in and make a dish that might just rival Red Lobster’s!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi:
- 6 oz (170g) peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 2 oz fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh olive oil
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Optional Additions:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- A splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi:
- Prepare the Shrimp:
Ensure your shrimp are peeled, deveined, and fully defrosted. Pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid steaming instead of searing. - Heat the Pan:
Place a skillet on medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let the oil heat up until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. - Sear the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer. Let them cook for about 1-2 minutes on one side without moving them to get a nice sear. Sprinkle with kosher salt to taste. - Flip and Cook:
Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they turn a vibrant pink color and are no longer translucent. - Add Butter and Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the buttery garlic mixture. Be careful not to burn the garlic. - Incorporate Parsley and Lemon Juice:
Add 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley and 2 ounces of fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together and let it simmer for another minute to combine the flavors. - Serve Immediately:
Transfer the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi to a serving dish, making sure to pour all the delicious sauce over the top. Serve with crusty bread, pasta, or a side salad.
Pro Tip: For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Add Protein:
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try this recipe with scallops, chicken, or even tofu. - Spice It Up:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. - Make It Creamy:
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for a creamy shrimp scampi. - Serve Over Pasta:
Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked linguine or fettuccine for a classic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi pasta dish.
Learn more about the history of shrimp scampi from Food Network.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. - Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or lemon juice to loosen the sauce if needed. - Freezing:
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Try this Best Damn Chicken Pot Pie Recipe for another quick dinner idea.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is:
- Quick and easy to make (ready in under 20 minutes!).
- Packed with bold, fresh flavors.
- Versatile and customizable to suit your taste.
Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a dinner party, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
