Description
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about recreating restaurant favorites in your own kitchen, and Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi is a dish that deserves a spot at the top of your list. Known for its tender shrimp bathed in a luxurious garlic-butter sauce with a pop of lemon, this dish captures the essence of indulgent dining without the need to leave your home.
My love affair with shrimp scampi began on a warm summer evening during a dinner outing with my family. The moment that first bite melted in my mouth, I was hooked. The buttery richness, the vibrant tang of lemon, and the perfectly cooked shrimp created a harmony of flavors that I couldn’t get enough of. Naturally, I had to try making it myself.
This version of Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi brings all the flavors of the original into your kitchen. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels like a special occasion but is easy enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- Shrimp: 1 pound, raw, peeled, and deveined
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons
- Minced Garlic: 4 teaspoons (about 4 cloves)
- Lemon Juice: Juice from ½ a lemon (freshly squeezed)
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: For garnish (optional but highly recommended)
- Fresh Parsley: Optional, for a burst of color
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by ensuring your shrimp is cleaned and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this helps them cook evenly and ensures they develop a nice sear in the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are no longer translucent. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if cooked for too long. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Seasonings
Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir well.
Step 5: Combine the Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the garlic butter sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let the shrimp simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat. For the finishing touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp scampi. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it may overcook the shrimp.
- Make-Ahead Sauce: You can prepare the garlic butter sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the shrimp fresh for the best results.