Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

There’s something unforgettable about a great restaurant meal—especially when it comes with good company and a plate that seems to sing with flavor. My own obsession with shrimp scampi started with a dinner date at Red Lobster. The aroma of garlic, the velvety richness of butter, and the subtle brightness of lemon turned a simple dish into something magical. That experience inspired me to create a beginner-friendly version of shrimp scampi—one that doesn’t sacrifice taste but is easy enough for anyone to master at home.

This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is version focuses on a clean ingredient list, quick preparation, and versatile serving options. Whether you’re cooking solo, feeding a family, or trying to impress someone special, this easy sheet pan dinner will hit all the right notes.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Inspired by a restaurant classic but simplified for home kitchens
• Cooks in under 30 minutes from prep to plate
• Offers a balanced blend of richness, brightness, and savory depth
• Perfect for beginners: minimal prep, no complicated techniques
• Easily customizable based on what you have on hand
• Light, flavorful, and packed with protein—ideal for quick and healthy meals

Ingredients and Preparation

Shrimp
This is your star ingredient. Choose peeled and deveined raw shrimp—they cook quickly and absorb flavor beautifully. Shrimp provides lean protein and a delicate texture that pairs well with bold ingredients.

Butter
Adds richness and depth to the sauce. Opt for unsalted butter to control seasoning. It creates that signature scampi silkiness.

Garlic
The aromatic backbone. Minced garlic adds a pungent, warm flavor and instantly elevates the dish’s aroma.

White Cooking Wine
Adds subtle sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness. If avoiding alcohol, low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth works well too.

Lemon Juice
Brightens the sauce and adds a refreshing zing. Fresh-squeezed is best.

Italian Seasoning
A blend of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil enhances the dish with savory, earthy notes.

Parmesan Cheese
Adds a nutty, salty layer of flavor at the finish. Use freshly grated if possible for better melting and taste.

Optional Substitutions:

• Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy variation
• Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite
• Use fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) instead of Italian seasoning for a brighter flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Lay the shrimp out evenly on the sheet.

Step 2 In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat and stir in minced garlic. Let it sizzle gently for 30 seconds to release the aroma—don’t let it brown.

Step 3 Add the white wine and lemon juice to the butter mixture. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly. This concentrates the flavor without making it overpowering.

Step 4 Pour the buttery sauce evenly over the shrimp. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and give everything a gentle toss with tongs or a spoon to coat evenly.

Step 5 Bake the shrimp for 8–10 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink. If you’re unsure, cut into one—it should be firm and white inside, not translucent.

Step 6 Once out of the oven, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like. Serve hot.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Avoid overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly. If they start to curl into tight circles and feel rubbery, they’re overdone. Keep a close eye on them in the oven.
• Use a zester or microplane: If you want more lemon aroma, add some zest to the sauce before baking.
• Meal prep hack: Mince garlic and juice the lemon ahead of time to cut down on stress when cooking.
• Tool substitutions: If you don’t have a zester, use the fine side of a cheese grater for lemon zest. No baking sheet? Use an oven-safe skillet or dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with: Lightly buttered noodles, steamed rice, or cauliflower mash.
• Side ideas: Roasted asparagus, a fresh green salad with vinaigrette, or crusty garlic bread.
• Sauce boost: Drizzle with a little extra lemon juice or top with a dollop of pesto for added complexity.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth. Freezing isn’t recommended—it alters the shrimp’s texture.

Conclusion

This easy sheet pan shrimp scampi is a foolproof recipe you can return to again and again. It’s quick, wholesome, and impressively delicious—ideal for beginner cooks who want a touch of gourmet without the stress. I’d love to hear how yours turns out—did you add your own twist? Leave a comment and share your version. Let’s keep the joy of cooking alive, one simple meal at a time.

FAQ About Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

More Relevant Recipes

• Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
• SHRIMP CEVICHE
• Copycat Cheesecake Factory Shrimp Scampi Linguine – Asili Glam

Print