If you’re craving the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe, you’re in the right place!
This dish is a classic favorite from Red Lobster, featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a touch of lemon and white wine.
With this homemade Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe, you’ll get all the flavors of your favorite restaurant dish—right in your own kitchen.
It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with pasta, crusty bread, or even a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles.
Table of Contents
What Makes Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi Special?
The Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe stands out because of its:
- Signature Garlic Butter Sauce – A perfect balance of butter, garlic, lemon juice, and wine.
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp – Juicy and tender, never overcooked.
- Rich but Simple Flavor – Just a handful of ingredients create a dish packed with bold, delicious flavors.
By following this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe, you’ll be able to replicate that same restaurant-style taste with ease.
Ingredients
To make the best Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe, you’ll need these key ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
✔️ Shrimp – Large, fresh shrimp for the best texture.
✔️ Butter – Essential for that rich, creamy sauce.
✔️ Garlic – The foundation of the recipe’s bold flavor.
✔️ White Wine – Adds depth and balances the richness.
✔️ Lemon Juice – Fresh citrus brightens up the dish.
✔️ Olive Oil – Helps with sautéing and preventing burning.
✔️ Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but great for a spicy kick.
✔️ Parsley – Fresh parsley for garnish.
✔️ Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance flavor.
By using these ingredients in the right proportions, your homemade Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe will be just as good—if not better—than the restaurant version!
Choosing the Right Shrimp
When making the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe, the quality of your shrimp matters.
- Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised – Wild-caught shrimp have a firmer texture and better flavor.
- Pre-Peeled vs. Shell-On – Pre-peeled shrimp save time, but shell-on shrimp stay juicier.
- Fresh vs. Frozen – Fresh shrimp is best, but frozen shrimp work well if thawed properly.
Essential Herbs and Seasonings
The seasonings in the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe are simple but effective.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key for authentic flavor.
- Italian Seasoning – A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme adds depth.
- Red Pepper Flakes – A little heat can enhance the dish.
- Lemon Juice – Essential for cutting through the richness of butter.
- Parsley – A finishing touch for color and freshness.
Kitchen Tools
To execute this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe flawlessly, make sure you have:
✔️ Large Skillet – A non-stick or stainless steel pan works best.
✔️ Garlic Press or Knife – For finely mincing garlic.
✔️ Tongs – For flipping shrimp easily.
✔️ Measuring Cups & Spoons – For precise ingredient proportions.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, take these important preparation steps:
✅ Deveining and Cleaning Shrimp – Remove the dark vein along the back of the shrimp.
✅ Proper Garlic Mincing – Mince finely for even distribution in the sauce.
✅ Measuring Seasonings – Get everything prepped for a seamless cooking process.
Should You Marinate the Shrimp?
While not necessary, a quick marinade can enhance the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe.
🥄 Quick Marinade Option:
✔️ Olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice – Adds extra depth of flavor.
✔️ Let the shrimp sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
Can You Make the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe Without Wine?
Yes! If you want a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
This will still give you a delicious sauce with plenty of depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Even a simple dish like the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe can go wrong if you make these mistakes:
❌ Overcooking the Shrimp – They should cook for just 2-3 minutes per side.
❌ Burning the Garlic – Keep the heat at medium-low when sautéing.
❌ Using Too Much Butter – Balance it with lemon juice and wine for the perfect sauce.
By avoiding these mistakes, your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe will turn out perfect every time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions & Variations – Perfecting the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Now that we have all the ingredients and preparation details ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process to make the best Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe at home!
By following these instructions, you’ll be able to recreate that restaurant-style garlic butter shrimp with the perfect balance of flavors.
Sautéing the Garlic and Butter – The Key to Flavor in the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
One of the biggest factors that makes the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe special is its garlic butter sauce.
Cooking it just right is essential to achieving the bold, savory taste we all love.
How to Sauté Garlic for the Best Flavor:
🧄 Use fresh garlic – It’s the key ingredient in the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe.
🔥 Low heat is best – Garlic burns quickly and turns bitter, so don’t overheat it.
🧈 Use a mix of butter and olive oil – This prevents the butter from burning too fast.
🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
2️⃣ Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
3️⃣ Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for spice).
🔥 Pro Tip: If the garlic starts browning too fast, remove the pan from the heat immediately and lower the flame before continuing.
Cooking the Shrimp – Essential for a Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Shrimp is the star of the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe, so it’s important to cook it just right.
How to Cook Shrimp Perfectly:
✅ Shrimp should turn pink and opaque when done.
✅ It should form a “C” shape (not a tight “O” – that means it’s overcooked).
✅ Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes per side.
🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Add 1 pound of shrimp to the skillet with garlic butter.
2️⃣ Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
3️⃣ Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, then remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
🔥 Pro Tip: If using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat them dry first to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Creating the Garlic Butter Sauce – The Heart of the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
The garlic butter sauce is what makes this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe so irresistible.
How to Achieve the Best Sauce Consistency:
💡 Too watery? Simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid.
💡 Too thick? Add a splash of extra wine or broth.
💡 Too greasy? A little extra lemon juice balances it out.
🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Pour ½ cup of dry white wine into the pan and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
2️⃣ Stir in juice from 1 lemon and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
3️⃣ Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
🔥 Pro Tip: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add ¼ cup of heavy cream at this stage for a delicious variation.
Bringing It All Together – The Final Step in the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Now that we have our perfectly cooked shrimp and garlic butter sauce, it’s time to combine everything.
🔹 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Add the shrimp back into the pan.
2️⃣ Toss the shrimp gently so it’s evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
3️⃣ Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
🔥 Pro Tip: If serving with pasta, add cooked linguine or fettuccine to the pan and toss everything together to absorb the sauce.
Different Ways to Serve the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
The Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is versatile and can be served in many ways!
🍝 Classic Pasta Option – Toss with linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
🥖 With Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the sauce.
🥗 Over a Fresh Salad – A light option with arugula or mixed greens.
🥒 Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
🔥 Pro Tip: If tossing with pasta, save some pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles evenly!
Spicy Shrimp Scampi – A Fiery Take on the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Want to add some extra heat to your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe? Try these spicy variations!
🔥 Ways to Make It Spicier:
🌶️ Add extra red pepper flakes.
🌶️ Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or paprika.
🌶️ Use spicy garlic butter by mixing in hot sauce.
🔥 Pro Tip: Start with a small amount of spice and adjust based on your heat tolerance.
Creamy Shrimp Scampi – A Richer Variation of the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
If you love creamy pasta dishes, this variation of the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is a must-try!
🥛 How to Make a Creamy Shrimp Scampi:
🥄 Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream while making the garlic butter sauce.
🧀 Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
🍋 Balance with a little extra lemon juice to prevent it from being too heavy.
🔥 Pro Tip: A creamy sauce works best when served over pasta!
How to Make a Healthier Version of the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Want a lighter version of the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe? Try these healthy swaps:
✅ Use olive oil instead of butter – Cuts down on saturated fat.
✅ Reduce salt – Add more fresh herbs for flavor instead.
✅ Skip heavy cream – Stick to a wine-based sauce for a lower-calorie option.
✅ Serve with veggie noodles – Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash are great alternatives.
🔥 Pro Tip: Even with modifications, the dish remains full of flavor and delicious!
Final Thoughts – Mastering the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe at Home
Now that you have all the secrets, you’re ready to make the perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe! 🎉
✨ Key Takeaways:
✔️ Cook shrimp just until pink – no longer!
✔️ Use butter, garlic, and lemon for perfect balance.
✔️ Choose the right pasta and sides for a complete meal.
✔️ Reheat gently to keep shrimp tender.
So, what’s next? Try it out!
Make your own homemade Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of home.
🔥 Let me know how it turns out! 😊
Serving, Storage, and FAQs – Mastering the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe at Home
Now that we’ve covered the step-by-step cooking process, it’s time to talk about the best ways to serve, store, and reheat your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe.
In this final section, we’ll cover:
✔️ Perfect side dishes to serve with shrimp scampi.
✔️ How to store leftovers without losing flavor.
✔️ Reheating tips to keep the shrimp tender.
✔️ Common mistakes and how to fix them.
✔️ Frequently asked questions to answer everything you need to know.
By the end of this section, you’ll have everything you need to confidently make, store, and enjoy your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe like a pro!
How to Serve the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe for a Complete Meal
When served with the appropriate sides and beverages, a fantastic dish gets even better.
Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
🍞 Garlic Bread – The best way to soak up all that buttery garlic sauce!
🥗 Fresh Green Salad – A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli make a great side.
🍚 Rice or Risotto – If you’re skipping pasta, creamy risotto or steamed rice works well.
🔥 Pro Tip: Want a low-carb option? Serve your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Best Pasta Choices for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
🍝 Linguine – The most classic pairing, just like at Red Lobster.
🍝 Fettuccine – A slightly thicker pasta that holds sauce well.
🍝 Angel Hair Pasta – A delicate pasta that cooks quickly.
🍝 Gluten-Free Pasta – Choose chickpea or rice-based pasta for a gluten-free option.
🔥 Pro Tip: If tossing shrimp with pasta, save some pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles evenly!
Best Wine Pairings for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
The garlic butter sauce and shrimp in the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe pair beautifully with white wine.
🍷 Best White Wines:
✔️ Pinot Grigio – Light and citrusy, a classic pairing for seafood.
✔️ Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and slightly acidic, enhances garlic notes.
✔️ Chardonnay – A fuller-bodied wine that complements the buttery sauce.
🔥 Pro Tip: Not a wine drinker? Try sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic pairing!
How to Store Leftover Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
The Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly.
Refrigerator Storage:
✅ Store in an airtight container.
✅ Keeps for 2-3 days in the fridge.
✅ If storing with pasta, add a little extra sauce or olive oil to prevent dryness.
Can You Freeze Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe?
Yes, but with some precautions!
❄️ Freezing Tips:
✔️ Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
✔️ Shrimp can get rubbery when frozen, so undercook slightly before freezing.
✔️ Avoid freezing if served with pasta (pasta can get mushy when thawed).
🔥 Pro Tip: If you know you’ll be freezing, leave the shrimp slightly undercooked so they reheat better later.
How to Reheat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe Without Overcooking
Shrimp can become tough and rubbery if reheated improperly, so use these methods:
🔥 Best Method: Stovetop Reheating
✔️ Heat butter or olive oil in a pan over low heat.
✔️ Add the shrimp and sauce, stirring gently for 2-3 minutes.
✔️ If too dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water.
💡 Quick Microwave Reheating:
✔️ Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
✔️ Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each.
✔️ Stop heating as soon as the shrimp are warm to avoid toughness.
🔥 Pro Tip: If serving with pasta, reheat shrimp separately from the pasta to keep both textures perfect.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them in the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Even the best cooks can run into problems when making the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe. Here’s how to avoid or fix common issues:
❌ Overcooked Shrimp
➡️ Fix: Shrimp should only cook 2-3 minutes per side. If they curl into an “O” shape, they’re overcooked.
❌ Sauce Is Too Watery
➡️ Fix: Simmer a little longer to reduce the liquid or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
❌ Sauce Is Too Thick
➡️ Fix: Add a splash of wine, lemon juice, or broth to loosen it up.
❌ Garlic Tastes Bitter
➡️ Fix: Keep heat low when sautéing, and don’t let garlic brown.
❌ Shrimp Lack Flavor
➡️ Fix: Add a pinch of salt and more lemon juice at the end to enhance the taste.
🔥 Pro Tip: Taste your sauce before adding shrimp so you can adjust the seasonings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Here are 10 of the most common questions about making the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe!
1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but only warm them in the sauce for about 1 minute to avoid overcooking.
2. Can I make this dish without alcohol?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for white wine.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Use the stovetop method with a little butter or broth. The microwave can make shrimp rubbery.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce.
5. Can I make shrimp scampi ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients ahead, but cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture.
6. What pasta pairs best with shrimp scampi?
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work great!
7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Try adding cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
8. How do I keep shrimp tender?
Don’t overcook them! They only need 2-3 minutes per side.
9. Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp.
10. What’s the secret to the best sauce?
Use fresh garlic, high-quality butter, and a splash of lemon juice for the perfect balance.
Final Thoughts – Mastering the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe at Home
Now you’re officially a shrimp scampi pro! 🎉
🔥 Try making the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe at home today! Let me know how it turns out! 😊