Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine (or chicken broth). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—these bits add incredible flavor. Let the wine simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add Lemon and Seasonings

Stir in the juice of one lemon, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This is the moment your sauce really starts smelling heavenly.

Step 6: Return Shrimp to the Skillet

Add the seared shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and fully coated.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your shrimp scampi immediately. You can spoon it over cooked pasta, alongside steamed rice, or with warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Sprinkle a little extra parsley on top for a vibrant finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi

1. Use fresh shrimp: Frozen shrimp work, but fresh shrimp have the best flavor.
2. High heat for searing: This ensures a nice golden crust on the shrimp.
3. Don’t overcook garlic: Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the sauce.
4. Serve immediately: Shrimp scampi is best eaten fresh while hot.

Final Thoughts

This Red Lobster-inspired Shrimp Scampi is buttery, garlicky, and bursting with flavor—perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a restaurant-style meal at home. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll master the balance of tender shrimp, tangy lemon, and rich garlic butter sauce that makes this dish a classic favorite.

If you want, I can also create a quick 20-minute version of this recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners while keeping it just as flavorful as the restaurant version. Do you want me to do that?