There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of buttery garlic shrimp scampi—especially when it’s inspired by the famous Red Lobster version. This restaurant favorite combines tender shrimp, a rich garlicky butter sauce, bright citrus notes, and a delicate touch of spice. The best part? You can create this gourmet dish at home in less than an hour, without compromising on flavor or presentation.
Whether you’re looking to surprise guests, treat your family to a special dinner, or simply indulge in a restaurant-quality meal, this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi copycat recipe is here to impress. In this guide, we’ll walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, plating ideas, side pairings, and even creative variations so your shrimp scampi turns out perfect every time.
Why This Recipe Works
- Restaurant Quality, Home Comfort – All the flavor you’d expect from Red Lobster, made with fresh ingredients in your own kitchen.
- Quick and Convenient – Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
- Versatile – Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, bread, or even on its own.
- Customizable Heat and Flavor – Adjust the spice, citrus, or herbs to your preference.
- Cost-Effective – Enjoy a luxurious seafood dinner at a fraction of the restaurant price.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp – peeled, deveined, tails on for presentation
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing shrimp evenly
- Salt and black pepper – to season before cooking
For the Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves – finely minced for maximum aroma
- 1½ cups dry white wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best
- Juice of 1 fresh lime – for brightness
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – to infuse classic herbal notes
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – optional, for a subtle kick
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – for a rich, silky finish
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley – finely chopped for freshness
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – for a savory finish
- Extra lime wedges – optional, for serving
Pro Tip: If you don’t use wine, substitute with chicken broth plus a splash of lemon juice for depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Drying ensures they sear instead of steaming.
2. Sear the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Build the Garlic Base
Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Avoid browning, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
4. Deglaze with Wine and Lime
Pour in the white wine and lime juice, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release the flavorful browned bits. Let the liquid simmer for 6–8 minutes, reducing by half to intensify the flavor.
5. Add Seasonings
Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Simmer for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Finish with Butter
Reduce heat to low. Once the pan is no longer bubbling aggressively, whisk in the butter until fully melted, creating a smooth, glossy sauce.
7. Return the Shrimp
Add the cooked shrimp (and any juices) back to the skillet. Toss gently to coat them in the sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Heat for another 1–2 minutes.
8. Serve Immediately
Serve hot over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. Garnish with extra parsley and lime wedges if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Pasta – Linguine or angel hair works beautifully, allowing the sauce to cling to every strand.
- With Crusty Bread – Fresh baguette slices are perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce.
- On a Bed of Rice – Jasmine or basmati rice soaks up the citrusy garlic flavors.
- With Roasted Vegetables – Adds color, nutrients, and balance to the plate.
- As an Appetizer – Serve in small bowls with toothpicks for a party starter.
Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp – They only need a few minutes to turn pink and opaque.
- Use Quality Wine – If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it.
- Balance Flavors – Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or citrus before serving.
- Add Butter Last – Prevents it from separating and keeps the sauce velvety.
- Serve Fresh – This dish is best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Cajun Scampi – Add Cajun seasoning for bold Southern flair.
- Creamy Scampi – Stir in ½ cup heavy cream after adding butter for a richer sauce.
- Veggie Boosted – Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for freshness.
- Lemon-Herb Scampi – Replace lime with lemon and add extra fresh herbs.
- Surf and Turf Scampi – Serve alongside grilled steak for a restaurant-style combo.
Best Side Dishes
- Garlic breadsticks
- Caesar salad
- Roasted asparagus
- Rice pilaf
- Caprese salad
- Mashed potatoes
- Coleslaw
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or wine.
- Microwave – Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
- Oven – Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without pasta)
- Calories: ~310
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q: What’s the best wine for shrimp scampi?
Dry white wines like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—replace butter with vegan margarine and skip Parmesan.
Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
Serve with gluten-free pasta or rice, and ensure seasonings are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi copycat recipe delivers restaurant-level flavor with the ease of home cooking. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for special occasions. With juicy shrimp, a luscious garlic-butter sauce, and bright citrus accents, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.
Whether you stick to the classic or experiment with the variations, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Now, set the table, pour yourself a glass of wine (or sparkling water), and enjoy the flavors of the sea—no reservation required.