Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

The Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Yourself savoring this delectable shrimp scampi that rivals Red Lobster most celebrated dish.

Garlicky butter and zesty lemon dance together in a culinary symphony that promises pure seafood bliss.

Tender shrimp glide through a silky sauce, whispering coastal flavors with each delightful bite.

Home cooks often hesitate to recreate restaurant classics, but this recipe shatters those doubts.

Minimal ingredients and simple techniques guarantee restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

Fragrant herbs and succulent shrimp will transport you to a seaside bistro without leaving home.

She craves that perfect balance of richness and brightness – this scampi delivers exactly that.

Grab your skillet and let’s make magic happen!

What Goes Well With Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complement the buttery, garlicky shrimp scampi, cutting through the richness with their bright, zesty acidity.
  • Create a Crunchy Side Salad: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's richness, adding a fresh, peppery contrast that enhances the shrimp's delicate flavor.
  • Match with Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce, providing a crunchy texture and extra garlic punch that echoes the scampi's main flavor profile.
  • Enhance with Roasted Asparagus: Quickly roast asparagus spears with olive oil and sea salt to create a simple, elegant side that adds a tender-crisp vegetable element to the meal.

Tasty Twists On Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

  • Coastal Herb Infusion: Replace white wine with vegetable broth and add fresh rosemary, thyme, and dill for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired seafood experience.
  • Spicy Cajun Kick: Incorporate Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika to transform the classic scampi into a bold, zesty Louisiana-style dish.
  • Asian Fusion Approach: Swap white wine for rice wine, add ginger, soy sauce, and garnish with chopped green onions for an exciting pan-Asian flavor profile.
  • Creamy Coconut Rendition: Introduce coconut milk instead of white wine, include a touch of curry powder, and finish with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical seafood sensation.

FAQs About Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

  • What makes Red Lobster's Shrimp Scampi so special?

The magic is in the simple yet flavorful combination of butter, garlic, white wine, and fresh shrimp. The quick cooking method keeps the shrimp tender and juicy, while the sauce adds a rich, zesty flavor that makes the dish truly delicious.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp get a nice sear and prevents them from becoming watery.

  • Is this dish spicy?

The recipe is mild, but you can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. If you prefer a spicier version, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

  • Do I need any special cooking skills to make this?

Not at all! This recipe is perfect for home cooks of all levels. The key is to cook the shrimp quickly and not overcook them. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in minutes.

Why Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Feels Like A Seafood Treat

  • Savor Quick Seafood Delight: This shrimp scampi delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous gourmet cravings.
  • Burst with Zesty Flavor Layers: The combination of white wine, lemon juice, and garlic creates a bright, tangy sauce that perfectly complements the sweet, tender shrimp, offering a sophisticated taste experience.
  • Master Simple Gourmet Technique: Using a single skillet and basic cooking methods, home cooks can easily transform simple ingredients into an impressive dish that looks and tastes like a professional chef's creation.
  • Customize Your Culinary Canvas: The recipe allows for flexible serving options – enjoy over pasta, with rice, or alongside crusty bread, making it adaptable to different preferences and pantry ingredients.

What Goes Into Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Main Proteins:
  • Shrimp: Succulent seafood that forms the star of the dish, best when fresh or high-quality frozen with firm texture.
Cooking Fats:
  • Butter, Olive Oil: Rich base that provides deep flavor and helps create smooth sauce, choose unsalted butter for better control of seasoning.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds robust depth to the scampi sauce, fresh cloves recommended for most intense flavor.
  • White Wine: Adds complexity and acidity to the sauce, dry varieties like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio work best.
  • Lemon Juice: Bright citrus element that provides balance and freshness to the dish.
Seasonings and Garnishes:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings for enhancing natural shrimp flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy component that adds gentle heat to the dish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides salty, nutty finish to the scampi.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb that adds color and fresh herbal note.
Optional Serving Bases:
  • Pasta, Rice, Crusty Bread: Accompaniments to soak up the delicious garlic sauce.

How To Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi At Home

Step 1: Prepare Succulent Seafood

Gently dry the shrimp using paper towels. Sprinkle a light dusting of salt and pepper over the tender seafood, ensuring an even coating.

Step 2: Create Buttery Foundation

Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Melt together:
  • Butter
  • Olive oil

Watch the ingredients dance and blend, creating a golden cooking base.

Step 3: Sizzle Shrimp to Perfection

Carefully place shrimp in a single layer across the skillet. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes until they transform into a beautiful pink hue. Once cooked, transfer shrimp to a waiting plate.

Step 4: Craft Aromatic Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, introduce minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds. Pour in:
  • White wine
  • Lemon juice

Scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the skillet bottom. Allow the mixture to simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Reunite Shrimp with Sauce

Return shrimp to the skillet, gently coating each piece in the luxurious sauce. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if desired. Let everything warm together for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle generously with:
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Serve immediately alongside your favorite pasta, fluffy rice, or with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips For Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Every Time

  • Quick-Dry Shrimp Technique: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring crispy, perfectly seared shrimp that won't steam in the pan.
  • Perfectly Layered Cooking: Arrange shrimp in a single layer to promote even browning and prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
  • Wine and Lemon Magic: Choose a crisp white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc to enhance the sauce's brightness and complement the shrimp's delicate flavor.
  • Low-Carb Transformation: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly version of the dish.
  • Fresh Herb Boost: Chop parsley just before serving to maximize its vibrant flavor and add a fresh, green pop of color to the final presentation.

How To Store Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Without Drying It Out

  • Refrigerate: Transfer shrimp scampi to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Cool Down: Let the dish reach room temperature before sealing the container to prevent condensation and soggy texture.
  • Reheat Gently: Warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  • Avoid Microwave: Microwaving can make shrimp tough and rubbery, so stovetop reheating is the best method to preserve flavor and texture.
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Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe


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4.8 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delightful Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi brings coastal flavors to home kitchens with buttery, garlic-infused shrimp dancing over perfectly cooked pasta. Signature restaurant magic meets simple ingredients, creating a memorable seafood experience you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 12 cup (120 ml) white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option)

Seasoning and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 12 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish and Cheese:

  • 14 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Meticulously blot shrimp using paper towels, ensuring surfaces are completely dry. Season with a delicate touch of salt and pepper for enhanced flavor profile.
  2. Select a spacious skillet and gently melt butter with olive oil over medium temperature, creating a luxurious cooking foundation.
  3. Arrange shrimp in a single, non-overlapping layer within the heated skillet. Allow each side to transform into a vibrant pink hue, approximately 1-2 minutes per side. Carefully extract shrimp and reserve on a separate plate.
  4. Within the same skillet, introduce minced garlic and swiftly sauté until aromatic, releasing its robust essence. Deglaze the pan by pouring white wine and fresh lemon juice, diligently scraping accumulated caramelized fragments from the skillet’s base.
  5. Let the liquid simmer and reduce slightly, concentrating the sauce’s complex flavors for 2-3 minutes. Gently reintroduce the seared shrimp into the bubbling liquid, ensuring thorough coating.
  6. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, if desired. Allow the mixture to harmonize for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring uniform heating.
  7. Remove skillet from heat source. Generously garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and finely chopped parsley, creating a visually appealing and fragrant presentation.
  8. Serve immediately atop warm pasta, fluffy rice, or alongside crusty artisan bread to capture every droplet of the decadent sauce.

Notes

  • Achieve perfectly cooked shrimp by ensuring they’re completely dry before seasoning, which helps create a beautiful golden sear and prevents steaming.
  • Select fresh, high-quality jumbo or large shrimp for the best texture and flavor, avoiding pre-cooked or frozen options that can become rubbery.
  • Use a combination of butter and olive oil to enhance the rich, classic scampi flavor while preventing the butter from burning during high-heat cooking.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting white wine with chicken broth and serving over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.
  • Prevent overcooking shrimp by watching for their color change to pink and removing them from heat immediately to maintain a tender, juicy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 200 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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