I love this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp recipe because it captures the irresistible flavors of the restaurant’s iconic dish right at home. These shrimp are perfectly seasoned, tender, and coated in a buttery, garlicky sauce that makes every bite a delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I find this recipe easy to prepare and full of bold flavors that bring a restaurant-quality dish straight to my kitchen. The combination of garlic, butter, and a hint of spice creates a sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Butter
Garlic, minced
Paprika
Cayenne pepper
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice
Parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

directions

I start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Then, I add minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant but not browned.
Next, I sprinkle in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
I add the shrimp and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
Finally, I squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and toss everything together.
I like to garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes roughly 15-20 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Variations

I sometimes like to add a dash of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor or swap lemon juice for lime juice to give the dish a slight twist. For a creamier version, I stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can also give a nice smoky depth.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking them and drying out the sauce.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp is best for this recipe?

I prefer medium to large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well, but if using frozen, I thaw them fully before cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses simple seasonings and butter without any gluten-containing ingredients.

How spicy is this dish?

The cayenne pepper adds a mild heat, but I usually adjust the amount based on how spicy I want it. You can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

I recommend cooking the shrimp fresh for the best texture and flavor, but you can prep the garlic butter sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving.

What should I serve with this shrimp?

I like serving this shrimp over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad pairs nicely too.

Conclusion

Making this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp recipe at home is a rewarding experience because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients and quick prep. I enjoy how the garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the shrimp, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual dinner or a special meal, this recipe never disappoints.