If you have a soft spot for vibrant, buttery seafood dishes that deliver a burst of flavor with every bite, you are going to adore this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe. It captures the essence of that beloved restaurant classic with succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlicky, lemony butter sauce that’s nothing short of addictive. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with minimal fuss, this dish balances simple elegance and comfort perfectly, all while filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here, just fresh, straightforward ingredients that come together to create a recipe bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role— from the plump shrimp adding juicy sweetness to the garlic and lemon providing that perfect zing.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on): The star of the dish; fresh or properly thawed shrimp yield the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity, light base for sautéing and helps meld the garlic and shrimp flavors.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Richness is key—dividing it lets you build layers of creamy, saucy goodness.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic packs a punch that elevates this scampi from simple to sensational.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Just a touch for those who love a subtle kick to brighten the dish.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth): Wine lifts the sauce with acidity and depth, but broth works beautifully for a mellow, family-friendly version.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness and adds a wonderfully fresh note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overwhelming the delicate shrimp.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds balance and a gentle hint of spice.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings color and a fresh herbal brightness that finishes the dish perfectly.
- 8 oz linguine or angel hair pasta (optional, cooked and drained): The perfect vessel to soak up that delicious buttery sauce.
How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta (Optional)
If you’re serving your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe over pasta, begin by cooking your linguine or angel hair according to the package instructions. Drain it well and set aside. This simple step ensures your pasta is ready to embrace the luscious scampi sauce as soon as you finish cooking the shrimp.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil together with 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic and, if you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for about one minute, just until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma without browning. This foundation is what makes the sauce sing.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer to maximize even cooking. Let them sizzle gently for 1–2 minutes on each side—just until the shrimp turn pink and curl slightly. It’s crucial not to overcook them; you’re aiming for tender, juicy bites that soak up the sauce beautifully. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Time for the magic—deglaze the pan by pouring in the dry white wine or chicken broth. Use your spoon to scrape up all those flavor-packed browned bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom. Then stir in the lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly, becoming the perfect silky coating for the shrimp.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them thoroughly in the buttery sauce so every piece is lovingly coated. Sprinkle in the fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. At this point, your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is technically ready to serve—either piled atop your cooked pasta or paired with a warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
How to Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes bring an extra touch of elegance and flavor. Thin lemon wedges are delightful for squeezing over each plate, adding subtle acidity that cuts through the richness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can add a savory, nutty boost that pairs beautifully with the garlic butter sauce.
Side Dishes
To round out this seafood feast, consider fresh, crisp sides like a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed asparagus for vibrant color and crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make wonderful companions, ideal for mopping up the luscious scampi sauce and elevating your dinner experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe in individual shallow bowls with the pasta elegantly twirled beneath the shrimp to showcase their plumpness. You could also try layering the shrimp over creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for a visually stunning presentation that feels special but effortless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness, as shrimp can quickly lose their delicate texture and flavor if kept too long.
Freezing
Freezing shrimp scampi isn’t ideal because the shrimp’s texture can turn rubbery after thawing. If you must freeze, separate the shrimp from pasta and sauce before freezing. Wrap shrimp tightly and use within 1 month, then thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to unevenly heat shrimp, making them tough. A gentle reheating ensures you retain all the luscious buttery goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture for your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe.
What can I substitute for white wine?
Chicken broth works perfectly as a non-alcoholic substitute, maintaining great flavor while keeping the sauce bright. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter touch.
Is it necessary to leave the tails on the shrimp?
Leaving the tails on provides a lovely presentation and can add flavor, but it’s entirely up to your preference. Removing tails makes the dish easier to eat, especially for casual dinners.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply skip the pasta or use a gluten-free alternative such as rice noodles or zucchini noodles to keep this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe gluten-free and still delicious.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and curl slightly. This usually takes 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye and remove them promptly once done.
Final Thoughts
There is something so joyful about recreating a favorite restaurant dish in your own kitchen, and this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe does exactly that with ease and flair. It’s quick, comforting, and packs layers of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it out and experience that perfect blend of buttery richness and zesty brightness right at your table.
Print
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe features succulent large shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine and lemon, served over delicate linguine or angel hair pasta. Perfect for a quick and elegant seafood dinner that captures classic American and Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Shrimp Scampi
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Pasta (Optional)
- 8 oz linguine or angel hair pasta (cooked and drained)
Instructions
- Prepare Pasta: If serving with pasta, cook the linguine or angel hair according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer to the skillet and cook 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make Sauce: Deglaze the skillet by adding dry white wine (or chicken broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in lemon juice, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it slightly reduces and thickens.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until well coated. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for freshness and aroma.
- Serve: Plate the shrimp scampi over the cooked pasta or serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Use chicken broth instead of white wine for an alcohol-free version.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and slightly curled to remain tender.
- Optional garnishes include extra lemon wedges or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor.
