Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe – Make It at Home Like a Pro

Who doesn’t love the buttery, garlicky, and oh-so-delicious Red Lobster shrimp scampi? It’s one of the most famous dishes at Red Lobster, known for its perfectly cooked shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and subtle citrusy zing. But what if you could make this restaurant-style delight right in your kitchen?

In this ultimate copycat recipe, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting the best shrimp to crafting the perfect sauce. We’ll also cover pro tips, serving suggestions, and mouthwatering variations to make this dish even more special.

Let’s dive in and start cooking!

Introduction to Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

What is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

Red Lobster shrimp scampi is a savory seafood dish featuring juicy shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of white wine and fresh lemon juice. This dish is often served with pasta, garlic bread, or even on its own as an appetizer.

Why Is It So Popular?

There’s a reason why shrimp scampi remains a fan favorite at Red Lobster!

• The bold garlic and butter flavors make it a comforting yet sophisticated dish.
• It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• The versatility allows it to be paired with everything from pasta to low-carb alternatives.

Can You Make It at Home?

Absolutely! The best part about this copycat Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe is that it uses simple ingredients you likely already have. Plus, making it at home means you can control the ingredients, customize the flavors, and even make it healthier by tweaking the butter and wine ratios.

Ingredients for the Best Shrimp Scampi

Creating a perfect Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe starts with gathering high-quality ingredients. The right combination of shrimp, butter, garlic, and wine makes all the difference in getting that restaurant-style flavor at home.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

To capture the rich and garlicky goodness of Red Lobster’s shrimp scampi, you’ll need:

• Shrimp – Use large or extra-large shrimp, preferably raw, peeled, and deveined. Fresh is best, but frozen works too.
• Butter – The base of the sauce, provides a smooth, rich texture.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings out the bold, aromatic flavor.
• White wine – Adds depth and enhances the sauce. Dry white wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc work best.
• Lemon juice – Balances the richness with a hint of citrus.
• Red pepper flakes – A slight heat kick makes this dish irresistible.
• Parsley – Adds freshness and color.
• Parmesan cheese (optional) – For extra creaminess and umami flavor.

Choosing the Right Shrimp for the Recipe

The key to the best Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe is high-quality shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, thaw properly by running cold water over them for a few minutes. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can turn rubbery fast!

Secret Ingredients Used at Red Lobster

Want that authentic Red Lobster taste? Many copycat recipes suggest adding a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or a splash of chicken broth to enhance the flavor depth. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a savory boost.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to cook this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe to perfection! This recipe is quick and easy, requiring only one pan and about 20 minutes.

Preparing the Shrimp for Cooking

Before you start, ensure your shrimp is properly prepped:

1. If using fresh shrimp, rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by soaking them in cold water for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor.

Making the Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce

This garlic butter sauce is what makes this dish so irresistible! Follow these steps for the perfect balance of flavors:

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol while intensifying the flavors.
4. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir to blend.

How to Achieve the Signature Red Lobster Taste

Here’s where the magic happens! Follow these tips to get that signature Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe flavor:

• Cook the shrimp just right – Add them to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them rubbery!
• Enhance the sauce – Add 2 more tablespoons of butter towards the end for extra richness.
• Balance flavors – If the sauce is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to mellow it out.

Best Cooking Methods: Stovetop vs. Oven

While the traditional method is stovetop cooking, some variations involve baking the shrimp in a casserole dish. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.

I couldn’t find any directly relevant internal linking opportunities from eatyrecipes.com. However, if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, feel free to check out other great dishes on their recipe index.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

Mastering this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe requires more than just following steps. The right techniques can take your dish from good to restaurant-quality.

How to Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cooks very quickly and can easily turn rubbery. To keep them tender and juicy, follow these rules:

• Use medium heat – High heat can cause them to cook too fast and lose their delicate texture.
• Cook in batches – Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
• Watch the color – Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, usually in 1-2 minutes per side.

Adjusting the Garlic and Butter Ratio for Flavor

One of the biggest mistakes is using too much or too little garlic and butter. Here’s how to get the balance right:

• For a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of fresh.
• Want more richness? Add an extra tablespoon of butter right before serving.
• If your sauce is too oily, squeeze in a little extra lemon juice to cut through the richness.

What to Do If Your Sauce Is Too Thick or Too Thin?

• Too thick? Stir in a splash of white wine or chicken broth to loosen it.
• Too thin? Let it simmer for another minute or two, or whisk in a little extra butter.

These simple tweaks ensure your homemade Red Lobster shrimp scampi turns out perfect every time! Now, let’s look at what to serve it with.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Shrimp Scampi

Pairing the right side dish makes your Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to complete your meal.

Classic Pairings: Garlic Bread and Pasta

• Garlic bread – The buttery, crispy texture of freshly baked garlic bread perfectly complements the scampi sauce.
• Pasta – Classic choices like linguine or fettuccine soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Low-Carb Alternatives: Zucchini Noodles and Cauliflower Rice

• Zucchini noodles (Zoodles) – A healthy, gluten-free alternative that absorbs the sauce well.
• Cauliflower rice – Light and fluffy, this makes a great low-carb option without losing flavor.

Wine Pairing Suggestions for Shrimp Scampi

A good wine can enhance the flavors of your dish. Here are some top picks:

• Pinot Grigio – Crisp and citrusy, it complements the lemon and garlic in the scampi sauce.
• Chardonnay – A slightly buttery choice that matches the richness of the dish.
• Sauvignon Blanc – Light and zesty, ideal if you prefer a more refreshing contrast.

No matter which side dish or drink you choose, this shrimp scampi meal is guaranteed to impress! 🍤🍷

Variations of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

One of the best things about this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you love spice, creaminess, or low-carb options, there’s a version for everyone. Let’s explore some delicious twists on the classic recipe!

Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Chili Flakes

If you like a little heat, adding red pepper flakes is the easiest way to spice up this dish. To make it extra fiery:

• Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Toss in sliced jalapeños for even more kick.
• Finish with a drizzle of hot chili oil for a smoky heat.

This variation pairs well with a cooling side like a crisp cucumber salad or a light white wine.

Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Parmesan and Heavy Cream

For a richer, creamier texture, try this version:

• Replace half of the butter with heavy cream.
• Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese while simmering the sauce.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle, warm flavor.

This thicker sauce pairs beautifully with fettuccine or angel hair pasta.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions of Shrimp Scampi

For a low-carb twist, swap traditional pasta for:

• Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – Light and fresh, these soak up the sauce well.
• Spaghetti squash – A great substitute with a natural sweetness.
• Cauliflower mash – A buttery, garlicky alternative to pasta.

No matter which variation you try, the garlic butter sauce will keep it delicious! Now, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions.

FAQs Based on Google’s ‘People Also Ask’ Section

Many people have common questions about making a perfect Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe at home. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

What kind of wine does Red Lobster use in their shrimp scampi?

Red Lobster typically uses a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. If you don’t have wine on hand, you can substitute it with chicken broth and a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen shrimp works just as well, but it’s important to thaw them properly:

1. Place shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes.
2. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel before cooking.
3. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

How do I store and reheat leftover shrimp scampi?

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat in a pan with a little butter or broth for 2-3 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short 30-second bursts, stirring in between to prevent overcooking.

What pasta goes best with shrimp scampi?

The best pasta choices are:

• Linguine – Holds the sauce well while staying light.
• Fettuccine – A slightly thicker option for a richer dish.
• Angel hair – Delicate and quick to cook, great for a lighter meal.

With these answers, you’re now ready to perfect your homemade shrimp scampi! Up next, we’ll wrap it up with final thoughts.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Making a Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe at home is easier than you think! With just a few simple ingredients and the right techniques, you can create a dish that’s just as rich, buttery, and flavorful as the restaurant version.

Why This Copycat Recipe Is the Best

This homemade shrimp scampi stands out because:

• It uses fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste—whether you like it spicy, creamy, or low-carb.
• It’s a quick and easy meal, ready in under 30 minutes.

Plus, making it at home means you can save money while still enjoying your favorite dish!

Encouragement to Try Making It at Home

Now that you have the perfect recipe, it’s time to put it to the test! Whether you serve it with pasta, garlic bread, or a glass of wine, this shrimp scampi will impress everyone at the table.

Share Your Experience in the Comments!

Have you tried this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe? Let us know in the comments! Share your favorite variations, tips, or any questions you have. Happy cooking! 🍤✨