This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is a delightful way to bring the flavors of your favorite seafood restaurant into your home. Perfect for date nights, special occasions, or simply to satisfy a craving for something delicious, this dish features succulent shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce that is as comforting as it is elegant. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in less than an hour!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- For the Sauce
- For Finishing Touches
- How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Step 2: Sauté Garlic
- Step 3: Deglaze with Wine and Lime
- Step 4: Add Seasonings
- Step 5: Add Butter
- Step 6: Finish the Dish
- Step 7: Serve Hot
- How to Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Over Pasta
- With Crusty Bread
- On a Bed of Rice
- With Steamed Vegetables
- As Part of a Seafood Platter
- Topped with Fresh Herbs
- How to Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Reheating Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- What sides go well with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
- How spicy is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
- Can I customize this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of garlic, white wine, and butter creates a rich sauce that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish at gatherings or special occasions to wow your guests with minimal effort.
- Healthier Indulgence: Made with fresh ingredients, this shrimp scampi is lighter than many restaurant versions without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking this amazing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop flavor through browning.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for deglazing the pan without scratching its surface while mixing ingredients smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1½ cups dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Finishing Touches
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove shrimp from the skillet and keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant. If necessary, add a splash more olive oil.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine and Lime
Pour in the dry white wine and juice of lime. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Allow it to simmer and reduce by half for about 6–8 minutes.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
Step 5: Add Butter
Lower the heat. After letting the skillet cool slightly so that it isn’t bubbling furiously anymore, add butter and stir until melted and completely combined into the sauce.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Return the cooked shrimp (along with any juices) back into the pan. Add chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Let everything warm through for about 1–2 minutes.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve immediately while hot and saucy! This dish pairs wonderfully over pasta or rice or with crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce. Enjoy your homemade Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi!
How to Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and garnishes. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Over Pasta
- Serve the shrimp scampi over your favorite pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, for a hearty dish.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair the scampi with crusty bread to soak up the delicious buttery garlic sauce.
On a Bed of Rice
- For a lighter option, serve the shrimp on a bed of fluffy rice, which absorbs the flavors beautifully.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Complement your dish with steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
As Part of a Seafood Platter
- Include Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi as one of several seafood dishes for an impressive seafood feast.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley or basil for a burst of flavor and freshness.

How to Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
To achieve the best results with your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque; overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Quality Wine Matters: Use a good dry white wine, as it significantly impacts the sauce’s taste.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Let Butter Melt Slowly: Reduce heat before adding butter to maintain its creamy texture without burning.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your scampi hot and fresh from the pan.
Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Pairing side dishes with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi can enhance your meal’s flavors. Here are some perfect options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s perfect for dipping in the buttery sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons provides a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add heartiness and are great for soaking up extra sauce.
- Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that pairs well with shrimp while keeping it light.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw can balance out the richness of the scampi.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option packed with flavors, pairing well with seafood dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season the shrimp properly before cooking. Always add salt and pepper for better flavor.
- Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so avoid leaving it on the heat too long. Cook until pink and opaque to keep it tender.
- Not deglazing the pan: Neglecting to scrape up the flavorful bits can result in a less flavorful sauce. Make sure to deglaze with wine for depth.
- Using cold butter: Adding cold butter directly can cause it to separate. Let it soften slightly before incorporating it into the sauce.
- Ignoring simmer time: Rushing the simmering process doesn’t allow flavors to meld. Give the sauce enough time, around 6-8 minutes, to deepen its taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Place the cooled scampi in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scampi in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a popular seafood dish featuring shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with white wine and seasonings.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking for even results.
What sides go well with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for dipping into that delicious sauce.
How spicy is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
The level of spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or substitute other seafood like scallops if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is not just quick and delicious; it’s also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. Dive into this indulgent dish tonight!
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Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the flavors of a classic seafood restaurant with this easy-to-make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. This dish features succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, enhanced with white wine and lime juice for a burst of flavor. Ideal for date nights or casual dinners, this gourmet meal can be prepared in under 40 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque; then remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in white wine and lime juice, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan; simmer for 6–8 minutes until reduced by half.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes; simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
- Lower heat and add butter, stirring until melted and combined.
- Return shrimp to the skillet along with juices; add parsley and Parmesan cheese. Warm through for about 1–2 minutes.
- Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 210mg