Craving the buttery, garlicky goodness of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi but want to enjoy it at home? This easy Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen in under 30 minutes. With juicy shrimp simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce with hints of lemon, white wine, and herbs, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend treat. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, this classic seafood dish delivers comfort, elegance, and bold flavor — all in one skillet.
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Why This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe Works
What makes this homemade Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi truly irresistible? It’s all about balance — rich and buttery, yet fresh and zesty. This dish is fast, flavor-packed, and ideal for families or romantic dinners. Unlike complicated seafood recipes, this one uses simple ingredients and minimal prep. It’s also versatile: great with pasta, rice, or on its own. Plus, you control the ingredients — perfect for those who want a lighter, healthier shrimp scampi without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need
- Large Shrimp: The star of the dish, offering a juicy, tender bite and soaking up the sauce beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich, velvety base for the garlic sauce.
- Olive Oil: Adds depth and helps the butter not burn while cooking.
- Garlic (minced): Delivers that classic scampi aroma and flavor.
- Dry White Wine: Enhances flavor with acidity and depth (use a crisp white like Pinot Grigio).
- Chicken Broth: Adds savory notes and stretches the sauce.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with citrusy balance.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle heat that complements the shrimp.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): Brings freshness and color to the final plate.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty finish and creamy texture.
- Cooked Pasta or Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle for soaking up the garlicky scampi sauce.
Ingredient Swaps and Dietary Variations
- Shrimp Alternatives: Try scallops or firm white fish chunks for a twist on classic shrimp scampi.
- White Wine Substitute: Replace with additional chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice for an alcohol-free version.
- Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or rice, and ensure broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan or sub with a dairy-free alternative.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a more nutrient-packed meal.
How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi at Home
- Melt the Fats
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with the olive oil until the mixture is sizzling but not browned. - Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic to prevent bitterness. - Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. - Deglaze with Wine and Broth
Pour in the white wine, chicken broth, and fresh lemon juice. Stir to scrape up any bits from the pan and simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly. - Reunite Shrimp with Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss them in the sauce. Let them simmer for 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors. - Finish with Freshness
Remove from heat, stir in the chopped parsley, and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. - Serve Immediately
Spoon the shrimp and sauce over hot cooked pasta or serve with warm, crusty bread to mop up the delicious scampi sauce.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp with tails on give the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly—once they curl and turn pink, they’re done.
- Balance the Sauce: Taste and adjust lemon juice, salt, or red pepper flakes to suit your palate.
- Make Ahead: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for a 15-minute dinner fix.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid rubbery shrimp.
Side Dishes, Pairings, and Creative Twists
- Perfect Pasta Pairings: Angel hair or linguine are classic choices that hold the sauce well.
- Low-Carb Serving Ideas: Try serving the shrimp scampi over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the lemony, buttery profile.
- Make It Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a rich, creamy shrimp scampi variation.
- Crusty Bread Tip: Toast baguette slices with garlic butter and serve on the side to soak up every drop of the scampi sauce.
Light, Bright, and Loaded with Flavor
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe isn’t just a restaurant copycat — it’s better. With fewer calories, customizable ingredients, and the flexibility to serve it your way, this dish is a winning weeknight go-to or date-night favorite. Shrimp lovers rejoice: this flavorful seafood delight brings buttery richness and bold garlic zest in every bite.
Final Thoughts on Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to impress — buttery, garlicky, with just the right splash of citrus and heat. This homemade version captures all the signature flavors you love from the restaurant, but with the added bonus of being customizable and quicker than dining out. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, planning a special occasion meal, or simply indulging in some seafood comfort food, this shrimp scampi recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Don’t forget the crusty bread or pasta — you’ll want every last drop of that luscious sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink, and the tails curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly and become rubbery, so keep a close eye — they cook in just 2–3 minutes per side.
Can I make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients and even make the sauce in advance, but for best results, cook the shrimp fresh. Reheating can make them rubbery. If needed, store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove.
What’s the best pasta for shrimp scampi?
Linguine, angel hair, and spaghetti are popular choices because they hold the sauce well. For low-carb options, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Can I freeze leftover shrimp scampi?
It’s not recommended to freeze shrimp scampi, as the texture of the shrimp may become rubbery once thawed. However, the sauce alone can be frozen and reused with freshly cooked shrimp.
More Relevant Recipes
- Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta: This flavorful pasta dish delivers the perfect blend of creamy sauce and spiced shrimp, offering a bold and savory twist on classic shrimp scampi with a Southern flair.
- Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod: If you love the lemony, garlicky notes in shrimp scampi, this baked cod recipe will be your next favorite. It’s light, flaky, and packed with bright flavors.
- Creamy Garlic Pasta: For those who enjoy a rich garlic butter base like in shrimp scampi, this pasta offers a comforting and creamy option that pairs well with seafood or as a standalone meal.
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a buttery, garlicky seafood classic made at home in just 25 minutes. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in garlic, lemon, and white wine, then tossed in a savory sauce and finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan. Perfect over pasta or with crusty bread for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat until the butter is melted.
- Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2 minutes on each side or until pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the white wine, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese, over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- If avoiding alcohol, replace white wine with more chicken broth or white grape juice.
- This dish is best served immediately after cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéed
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg