Imagine sitting at your favorite Red Lobster, indulging in the buttery, garlicky, and tender shrimp scampi—one of the ultimate comfort foods for seafood lovers. Now, what if I told you that you could recreate this iconic dish, or even a variation like Shrimp and Scallop Parmesan Scampi, right in your own kitchen? Whether it’s a special dinner or a craving for restaurant flavors, this guide will show you how to make this mouthwatering dish at home with ease and flair.
Table of Contents
H2: Why You’ll Love This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Easy to make, yet fancy enough for a dinner party.
- Delicious blend of butter, garlic, and Parmesan that gives the dish its signature richness.
- Versatile: Customize it by adding scallops, more shrimp, or even lobster.
- Achieve professional-level results right in the comfort of your own home.
H3: Personal Connection
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Red Lobster or just love seafood, bringing this recipe home lets you enjoy your favorite dish without leaving your house. I remember the first time I made this recipe, the aroma of butter and garlic filled my kitchen and transported me back to those indulgent dinners at Red Lobster. Now, it’s a go-to dish for special occasions, or when I just want a taste of that restaurant experience.
H2: Ingredients You’ll Need for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Here’s a breakdown of all the fresh and pantry staples you’ll need to make this dish shine. Feel free to add scallops or Parmesan for an extra decadent twist!
| Ingredients | Quantity |
| Large shrimp, peeled & deveined | 1 lb |
| Scallops (optional) | 1/2 lb |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| White wine (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Cooked pasta or bread | For serving |
H3: Ingredient Notes
- Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen will work too—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry.
- White Wine: Adds depth to the sauce, but feel free to substitute with chicken broth if you prefer.
- Butter and Garlic: These are the heart of the dish, giving it that rich, savory flavor.
H2: Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi at Home
Follow these easy steps for a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
H3: H4: Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp (and Scallops)
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- If you’re using scallops, ensure they are also rinsed and dried.
- Season both the shrimp and scallops with salt and pepper for a flavorful base.
H4: Step 2: Searing the Shrimp and Scallops
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. If using scallops, sear them in the same pan, cooking each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown.
- Take the shrimp and scallops out of the pan and set them aside.
H4: Step 3: Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the aroma is released.
- Add the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, creamy texture.
H4: Step 4: Combining Everything
- Place the shrimp and scallops back into the pan, letting them absorb the sauce for approximately 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for a pop of color and heat.
- Serve over a bed of pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
H2: Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp and Scallop Parmesan Scampi
- Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent rubbery texture.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, so don’t skimp!
- Add Parmesan Last: Adding Parmesan at the end helps to keep it from clumping in the sauce.
H2: Delicious Variations for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
H3: Adding Scallops
To turn this classic shrimp scampi into a deluxe Shrimp and Scallop Parmesan Scampi, simply add seared scallops to the mix.
H3: Creamy Shrimp Scampi
Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce before stirring in the Parmesan for an extra creamy, indulgent version of the dish.
H2: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, simply ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
H3: Is it possible to make this recipe without using wine?
Absolutely! Chicken broth is a great substitute for white wine in this recipe.
H3: How do I prevent my shrimp from overcooking?
Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and form a “C” shape—this usually takes just a couple of minutes per side.
H3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The shrimp is best served fresh, but you can make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
H3: What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
Shrimp scampi goes wonderfully with pasta, crusty bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Conclusion: Bring the Restaurant to Your Kitchen
Now you know how easy it is to recreate the flavors of Red Lobster’s famous shrimp scampi at home! Whether you’re making the classic version or jazzing it up with scallops and Parmesan, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on your table in no time.