If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming about that unforgettable blend of garlicky, buttery shrimp served at your favorite seafood spot, then this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is about to become your new kitchen obsession. Bringing the magic of tender, juicy shrimp tossed in a silky garlic butter sauce with just the right hint of lemon and wine, this dish captures all the flavors that make seafood lovers swoon. Whether you serve it over pasta, alongside crusty bread, or simply enjoy it as is, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both luxurious and incredibly approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe calls for simple ingredients that each play a star role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the fresh garlic that perfumes the kitchen with warmth to the bright pop of lemon juice, these essentials transform everyday pantry staples into something truly special.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The centerpiece of the dish, shrimp should be fresh or well-thawed for the best texture and flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Butter adds richness and helps create that luscious sauce that clings to every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity depth and helps prevent the butter from burning during sautéing.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its unmistakable aromatic punch—don’t skimp here!
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat, this adds just the right amount of kick without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Wine brings acidity and complexity, while broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute with subtle flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens and balances the richness of the butter perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and seasons the shrimp just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds freshness and a mild bite to complement the garlic and butter.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Parsley adds a fresh, vibrant green color and a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkle for a savory, nutty flair that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
- Cooked linguine or angel hair pasta (optional for serving): A classic foundation to soak up every drop of that amazing sauce.
How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels and seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Dry shrimp will sear beautifully and get that perfect quick-cooked texture, while seasoning helps bring out their natural sweetness right from the start.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. As soon as they’re melted and shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Sauté everything for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant but hasn’t browned yet—this step releases the essential flavors that form the base of your sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. The key is to not overcook them—they should be tender and juicy. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour the white wine or chicken broth and fresh lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to reduce and concentrate the flavor. Then stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Toss Shrimp in Sauce
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently in the garlic butter sauce, letting them soak up the flavors. Let everything simmer together for another minute to meld and warm through. Finish by sprinkling with fresh parsley and, if you like, grated Parmesan cheese for an extra indulgent touch.
How to Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness. A little grated Parmesan on top adds a tasty, salty dimension, and a wedge of lemon served alongside always invites your guests to brighten each bite further.
Side Dishes
This shrimp scampi shines when paired with light, complementary sides such as linguine or angel hair pasta to catch every flavorful drop of the sauce. Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up leftovers on your plate, while a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus adds freshness and crunch to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like getting a little creative? Serve your shrimp scampi in individual shallow bowls with pasta twirled artfully beneath or spoon it over a bed of creamy risotto for an elegant twist. You can even turn it into a seafood platter with grilled vegetables for a colorful, restaurant-quality presentation that will wow your family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp tender and the sauce luscious, avoid reheating more than once and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Freezing
While shrimp scampi tastes best fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to one month. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power. Stir frequently and add a small splash of broth, water, or wine to help loosen the sauce and keep the shrimp tender instead of rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking, then pat them dry to get the best sear and texture.
What if I don’t have white wine?
No worries—chicken broth or even vegetable broth works great as a substitute and still adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
Is it necessary to use crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper adds a lovely mild heat, but it’s completely optional. You can leave it out if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply serve the shrimp scampi without pasta or use gluten-free pasta options to keep it safe and delicious for gluten-sensitive diners.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This recipe is incredibly quick and easy—prep takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes just another 10 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about making the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe in your own kitchen—it’s quick, flavorful, and impressively elegant without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a restaurant-worthy meal any night of the week, this dish will not disappoint. So go ahead, gather those garlic cloves and fresh parsley, and treat yourself to a plate of garlicky, buttery shrimp bliss. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe delivers tender, garlic-infused shrimp sautéed in a rich butter and olive oil sauce, accented with a hint of red pepper flakes and fresh lemon juice. Cooked quickly on the stovetop, this dish offers an elegant yet easy seafood main course inspired by classic American-Italian flavors. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Cooking
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
To Serve (Optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Cooked linguine or angel hair pasta (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly. Lightly season them with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter along with the olive oil. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if using, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the sauce: Pour the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the liquid to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced and concentrated in flavor.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
- Combine and warm: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat them fully in the garlic butter sauce. Simmer for an additional minute to heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese over the shrimp if desired. Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- For added richness, incorporate a splash of heavy cream into the sauce before returning the shrimp to the pan.
- This dish cooks very fast — have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.
- You can adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level to your preference.
- Using dry white wine adds depth to the sauce, but chicken broth is a good substitute if preferred.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
