Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves seafood, especially shrimp. The combination of butter, garlic, and wine creates a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. The slight acidity from lemon and the kick from crushed red pepper flakes (optional) make this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be served with pasta, rice, or bread to soak up that delicious sauce. The best part? It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare!

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ¼ cup butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup dry white wine (or substitute chicken broth)

• ½ lemon, juiced (about 2–3 tablespoons)

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Freshly grated Parmesan, optional for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until soft and fragrant, making sure not to let it brown.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Tip: Shrimp are done when they turn pink and curl up. Don’t overcook them!

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
Pour the wine or chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Bring It All Together
Add the lemon juice, return the shrimp to the skillet, and toss everything together to coat the shrimp in the sauce. Stir in the fresh parsley.

Step 5: Serve
Plate the shrimp and spoon the sauce over them. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with pasta, bread, or rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 5 minutes

• Cooking time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers for more flavor and texture.

• Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

• Substitute shrimp: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try using chicken breast or scallops instead.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter or broth to avoid drying out the shrimp. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a “C” shape. Be careful not to overcook them as they will become tough and rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What can I serve with this shrimp scampi?

This shrimp scampi is perfect with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While shrimp scampi is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp when you're ready to serve.

What’s a good substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. It gives the dish a savory depth without the acidity of wine.

Can I make this recipe without the red pepper flakes?

Yes, you can omit the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder version. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the garlic, butter, and lemon.

How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?

To prevent overcooking shrimp, cook them until they turn pink and opaque, which should take 2–3 minutes per side. Once they're done, remove them from the pan immediately.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this shrimp scampi is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid adding pasta that contains gluten. You can serve it with gluten-free pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic.

Can I make shrimp scampi without butter?

Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if you prefer. The flavor will still be delicious, but the sauce may be slightly lighter.

Conclusion

This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is a quick, flavorful dish that will impress your family or guests. With its buttery, garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.