If you’re craving restaurant-style seafood in the comfort of your own kitchen, it’s time to fall in love with this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe. Succulent shrimp, silky garlic butter sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley over a bed of tender pasta — it’s pure comfort food and elegant enough for any occasion. The best part? This crowd-pleasing dish comes together quickly and uses easy-to-find ingredients for a result that tastes just like your favorite seafood chain’s signature plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — every ingredient plays a starring role, delivering bold flavors and rich textures. Don’t skip or swap out too much: each item is chosen for the way it balances the sauce, complements the shrimp, or adds brightness to the finished plate.

Large shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the juiciest bite; leaving tails on adds a bit of flair.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps sear the shrimp and infuses subtle flavor.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce; divide for sautéing and finishing.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The aromatic heart of this dish — don’t hold back!
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle heat that elevates every bite.
Dry white wine (1/4 cup) or chicken broth: Brings acidity and depth; use broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Lemon juice (from 1 lemon): Wakes up the sauce with bright zestiness.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for rounding out the flavors without overpowering.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds earthy warmth that pairs perfectly with seafood.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): For a pop of color and a fresh finish.
Linguine or angel hair pasta (1/2 lb, cooked & drained): Each strand soaks up that luscious garlic butter sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish): Adds savory richness and a hint of nuttiness.

How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your linguine or angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente — you want the pasta to hold up when tossed with the sauce. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water just in case you need to loosen your sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and half of the butter. Once they’re shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté, stirring constantly, for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This builds a foundation of flavor for your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to your skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan or overcook them — shrimp become tough if left in too long. Scoop the cooked shrimp out of the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Pour the dry white wine (or chicken broth) and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the same skillet, stirring well to lift any golden bits left behind. Bring it all to a simmer and let it reduce for 2–3 minutes, concentrating the flavors. Stir in the remaining butter, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is glossy and infused with citrusy aroma.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Finish the Dish

Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and sprinkle in most of the fresh parsley. Toss everything together, coating each noodle and shrimp with that glistening garlic butter sauce. If it seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe immediately, finishing with extra parsley and a shower of grated Parmesan if you like. Get ready for that irresistible aroma to fill your kitchen!

How to Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is both classic and essential, brightening up the whole dish. For those who love a touch of indulgence, freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory edge. A wedge of lemon on the side lets guests squeeze a little more citrus over their plate for extra zing.

Side Dishes

For the complete Red Lobster experience, pair your shrimp scampi with warm, crusty garlic bread — perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of simply steamed broccoli adds freshness and keeps things balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe in individual bowls with lemon zest curls for a festive touch, or try serving atop creamy risotto for something heartier. For casual nights, pile everything into a deep platter and invite everyone to dig in family-style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind, seafood is always tastiest fresh, so plan to enjoy the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe soon after cooking.

Freezing

While shrimp can technically be frozen, the texture of the pasta and sauce suffers, so freezing isn’t recommended for this dish. If you must, freeze only the shrimp in their sauce, and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

To reheat, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy sauce without overcooking the shrimp. Stir gently just until heated through; avoid the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This prevents excess water from watering down your sauce and ensures the shrimp sear nicely.

What can I use instead of wine in Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe?

Chicken broth is a terrific substitute that gives plenty of depth and flavor without alcohol. It’s especially handy if you’re making this for kids or anyone avoiding wine.

Is this dish spicy?

Red pepper flakes are optional, so you can control the heat level. Leave them out for a milder taste or go bold if you love things a bit spicy.

Can I use a different type Main Course

Definitely! Linguine and angel hair are classics, but spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta all work beautifully. Just be sure to cook until al dente so it absorbs the sauce best.

How can I make the Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe dairy-free?

Swap the butter with a vegan buttery spread and skip the Parmesan cheese. The result is still deliciously saucy and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a recipe that’s impressive, fast, and packed with restaurant-quality flavor, you’ll adore making this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe at home. Don’t wait for a special occasion — give it a go tonight and watch everyone swoon over your seafood masterpiece!

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe that perfectly balances succulent shrimp with a garlicky, buttery sauce served over a bed of pasta. It’s a delightful seafood dish that rivals your favorite restaurant version!

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp Scampi:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on if desired)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
juice of 1 lemon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

To Serve:

1/2 lb linguine or angel hair pasta, cooked and drained
grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with olive oil. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes briefly.
Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp in a single layer and cook until pink, then set aside.
Prepare Sauce: Deglaze the skillet with white wine and lemon juice. Add remaining butter, salt, and pepper.
Combine: Return shrimp to the skillet with cooked pasta. Toss to coat in the sauce.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and Parmesan, if desired, and serve hot.