Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Craving a taste of the coast from the comfort of your own home? This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe brings the flavors of the popular seafood chain straight to your kitchen. Bursting with tender, juicy shrimp, rich buttery garlic sauce, and a hint of zesty lemon, this dish is perfect for any seafood lover. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish to impress your guests, this recipe offers the best of both worlds.

The secret to this irresistible shrimp scampi lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, including extra-large shrimp, garlic, white wine, and a dash of Old Bay Seasoning, every bite delivers a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors. The buttery sauce, enriched with fresh lemon juice, wraps around the shrimp, creating a luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a bed of pasta.

So, if you’re ready to bring the seaside experience into your dining room, get your skillet ready and dive into this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe. It’s an easy yet mouthwatering meal that will have you savoring every last bite.

Key Ingredients for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

  • Extra-large shrimp – The star of the dish, bringing a juicy, tender bite that absorbs the garlicky, buttery sauce.
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp.
  • Old Bay Seasoning – Adds a distinctive, slightly spicy flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
  • Olive oil – Helps to sauté the shrimp, creating a beautiful golden crust.
  • Garlic – Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory flavor that defines classic shrimp scampi.
  • White wine – Deglazes the pan, adding depth and a subtle acidity to balance the richness of the butter.
  • Lemon juice – Adds a bright, zesty note that cuts through the buttery sauce, elevating the flavors.
  • Unsalted butter – Creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully.
  • Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
  • Grated Parmesan – A final touch for serving, adding a salty, nutty element that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.

Simple Steps to Make This Shrimp Scampi

  1. Season both sides of the shrimp with Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Old Bay Seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, then set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze the pan with white wine and lemon juice, scraping up the browned bits to infuse the sauce with more flavor.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in unsalted butter and the remaining Old Bay Seasoning, letting it melt into a creamy sauce.
  7. Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.
  • Opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to avoid adding sweetness to the sauce.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and slightly firm to the touch.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure your wine is gluten-free and skip the Parmesan or use a gluten-free alternative.

Creative Variations to Try

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing. You can also swap out the white wine for chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp scampi over linguine or fettuccine, or enjoy it with a side of steamed vegetables for a lighter option.

Storing Leftover Shrimp Scampi

To store leftovers, place the shrimp scampi in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the delicate texture of the shrimp. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the shrimp to become rubbery. You can also freeze the shrimp scampi in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Enjoy your homemade Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi and bring the ocean’s flavor straight to your table!