Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe: A Perfect Copycat

Shrimp scampi is one of Red Lobster’s most beloved dishes. This Shrimp Scampi Recipe combines tender shrimp, garlic butter sauce, and lemon for a zesty finish. The good news? With this Shrimp Scampi Recipe, you can recreate Red Lobster’s restaurant-quality flavours right in your kitchen!

This copycat recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home. Whether planning a special dinner or craving a delicious seafood meal, this shrimp scampi recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients Needed for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

One of the best aspects of recreating Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi is its simplicity. WOne of the best aspects of recreating Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi is its simplicity. You can craft a dish bursting with flavour with a handful of quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

• Shrimp (1 lb, large)
  • Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp that are peeled, deveined, and tails removed. Fresh shrimp add a sweeter flavour, but frozen shrimp also work when appropriately thawed.
• Butter (4 tbsp, unsalted)
  • A rich base for the scampi sauce. Unsalted butter provides greater control over the seasoning.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp)
  • It adds depth to the flavour and prevents the butter from burning.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
  • The star of the scampi sauce, garlic delivers the robust, savoury flavour characteristic of this dish.
• Dry White Wine (1/2 cup)
  • Adds acidity and enhances the sauce. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are excellent options. If avoiding alcohol, substitute with chicken broth or seafood stock.
• Lemon Juice (2 tbsp, freshly squeezed)
  • It provides a bright, zesty finish that balances the richness of the butter.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp)
  • It is optional, but it adds a little flavour to the dish.
• Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped)
  • For garnish and a fresh herbal flavour.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional, grated)
  • A sprinkle of Parmesan elevates the dish with a creamy, nutty note.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
  • Season the shrimp and Sauce Sauce.
• Pasta (8 oz, optional)
  • Linguine, angel hair, or spaghetti pair beautifully with shrimp scampi.

Substitutes and Alternatives for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

• Shrimp Substitute: Replace shrimp with mushrooms or zucchini ribbons for a vegetarian version. Scallops are an excellent pescatarian alternative.
• Butter Alternative: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Serve with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
• Low-Calorie Version: Reduce butter and olive oil by half, and use a non-stick pan to compensate.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Creating a dish as iconic as Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi at home might seem daunting, but this recipe is straightforward. Here’s a detailed guide to help you replicate the dish perfectly.

Preparing the Shrimp for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

1. Cleaning and Deveining the Shrimp

Start by cleaning your shrimp thoroughly. If using fresh shrimp:

• Peel: Remove the shell, leaving the tails on or off based on preference.
• Devein: Use a paring knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the vein.
• Rinse: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.

If you’re using frozen shrimp:

• Thaw: Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes. Drain and pat dry.

2. Seasoning the Shrimp

Sprinkle the shrimp lightly with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step enhances the shrimp’s natural flavour while allowing it to absorb the seasonings during cooking.

3. Tips for Selecting the Best Shrimp

• Choose large shrimp (16/20 count) for this dish, as they provide the perfect texture and balance.
• Fresh shrimp should have a mild, briny smell. Avoid any with an ammonia-like odour.

Cooking the Sauce for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

1. Heating the Pan

• Use a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
• Add two tablespoons of olive oil and cook until it shatters.

2. Cooking the Shrimp

• Put the shrimp into the skillet and arrange them in one layer. Cook 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery shrimp.
• Take the shrimp from the pan and place them on an uncooked plate.

3. Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

• Reduce the heat to medium-low.
• Add four tablespoons of butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt gently.
• Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant. Take care not to overcook the garlic.

4. Deglazing with Wine

• Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits.
• Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol and reduce slightly.

5. Adding Lemon Juice and Seasoning

• Mix in 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
• Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional) for a hint of heat.
• Test the sauce and adjust the spice levels with black pepper and salt if necessary.

Adjusting the Sauce for Personal Preferences

If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch slurry (equal parts water and flour). Add an extra splash of white wine or chicken broth for a lighter sauce.

Combining and Serving the Shrimp Scampi Recipe

With the shrimp cooked and the scampi sauce perfected, it’s time to combine the components into a delicious, restaurant-quality meal.

Bringing It All Together for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

1. Adding Shrimp to the SauceSauce

• Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the Sauce sauce.
• Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
• Allow the shrimp to warm for 1-2 minutes over low heat. This ensures the flavours meld together without overcooking the shrimp.

2. Incorporating Pasta (Optional)

• If you’re serving shrimp scampi over pasta, cook 8 ounces of your preferred pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair) according to package instructions—reserve 1/2 cup pasta water to drain before preparing for cooking.
• Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce.
• Toss the pasta and shrimp together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.

3. Final Touches

• Sprinkle chopped parsley on top of the dish to give it a zing of freshness.
• Add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, savoury finish.
• Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to taste.

Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Scampi Recipe

1. Plating the Dish

• For an elegant presentation, serve the shrimp and sauce over pasta in shallow bowls.
• Garnish with a few parsley sprigs and a lemon wedge on the side.

2. Accompaniments

Enhance the meal with complementary sides:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the SauceSauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad provides a refreshing balance.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make excellent pairings.

3. Wine Pairings

Pair your shrimp scampi with a glass of dry white wine. Some great options include:

• Sauvignon Blanc
• Pinot Grigio
• Chardonnay

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm lightly in a pan over the flame at a low temperature. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Mastering the art of shrimp scampi requires more than just following the recipe. Here are expert tips and tricks to help you consistently achieve Red Lobster-level perfection.

How to Replicate Restaurant-Quality Flavors

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

• Opt for wild-caught shrimp whenever possible for the freshest flavour.
• Choose a good-quality butter and olive oil as they form the foundation of the Sauce sauce.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly minced garlic make a noticeable difference.

2. Control Heat Levels

• Medium heat is ideal for cooking shrimp; too high a heat can result in overcooked, rubbery shrimp.
• Use low heat when melting butter and sautéing garlic to avoid burning and bitterness.

3. Balance the Sauce

Achieving the perfect scampi sauce requires the correct ratio of fat (butter and olive oil) to acidity (lemon juice and wine). Taste frequently and adjust as needed:

• Add a pinch of sugar if the sauce tastes overly tangy.
• Include a splash of wine or lemon juice for brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Shrimp

• Shrimp cook quickly, in just 1-2 minutes per side. Watch them closely and remove them as soon as they turn pink.

2. Skipping the Deglazing Step

• Deglazing the pan with wine (or broth) lifts the flavorful bits left by the shrimp, enriching the SauceSauce.

3. Overloading the Pan

• If cooking a large batch, cook shrimp in smaller batches to maintain even heat distribution.

4. Using Pre-Minced Garlic

• Fresh garlic provides a superior flavour. Pre-minced varieties can taste muted or processed.

Storing Leftovers Effectively

1. Refrigeration

• Keep in a sealed, airtight container for 2 days. Beware of leaving the shrimp in the room for long periods.

2. Freezing

• Freezing shrimp scampi is possible, but the texture of the shrimp may change slightly. If you are freezing, keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Reheat gently to avoid rubbery shrimp.

3. Reheating

• Use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water, broth, or wine to revive the SauceSauce.

Creative Variations

1. Add Vegetables

• Sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts pair beautifully with shrimp scampi. For a delicious vegetable addition, consider learning What Kind of Butter is Served with Crab Legs to elevate the richness of your scampi sauce.

2. Make it Creamy

• Stir in heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a more decadent sauce. If you’re looking for indulgent twists, enjoy this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat Recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavours at home.

3. Spice it Up

• Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick. Discover Scampi vs. Shrimp Scampi to understand how different styles of this dish can vary by spice and preparation.

4. Alternative Proteins

• Swap shrimp for scallops, lobster, or even grilled chicken for a twist on the classic recipe. You can explore What Are Scampi Bites Made Of to see how other proteins blend beautifully with garlic butter sauces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making shrimp scampi, tailored to help you perfect your dish.

Can I Make This Dish Without Wine?

Yes, shrimp scampi can be made without wine. Replace the wine with equal chicken broth, seafood stock, or even water with a splash of lemon juice for acidity. The flavour will still be delicious, though slightly less complex.

What’s the best pasta to serve along with Shrimp Scampi?

The best pasta for shrimp scampi is one that complements the light, buttery Sauce sauce. Popular options include:

• Linguine: Its flat shape holds the SauceSauce beautifully.
• Angel Hair: Thin and delicate, perfect for a light dish.
• Spaghetti: A versatile option that pairs well with the scampi flavours.

For a low-carb alternative, try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Shrimp?

Shrimp cook very quickly, usually within 1-2 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when:

• They turn pink with opaque flesh.
• They curl into a loose “C” shape. (Overcooked shrimp form a tight “O.”)

Can This Dish Be Made Ahead of Time?

While shrimp scampi is best served fresh, you can prepare parts of it in advance:

• Cook the Sauce Sauce and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before adding the shrimp.
• Avoid cooking the shrimp until just before serving, as reheating them can produce a rubbery texture.

What Are the Best Wine Pairings?

Shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with light, crisp white wines. Some excellent choices include:

• Sauvignon Blanc: Refreshing with notes of citrus.
• Pinot Grigio: Light-bodied with a hint of minerality.
• Chardonnay: Opt for unoaked varieties to complement the buttery Sauce sauce.

For a non-alcoholic pairing, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly for this recipe. To use frozen shrimp:

• Thaw properly: Place them in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry.
• Ensure they’re fully peeled and deveined before cooking.

Conclusion

Shrimp Scampi is a timeless classic, combining bold, savoury flavours with simplicity. This Shrimp Scampi Recipe recreates the beloved Red Lobster dish, delivering buttery, garlicky goodness and a touch of lemon zest. With just a few ingredients, this Shrimp Scampi Recipe makes it easy to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal for any occasion.

Whether serving it over pasta, pairing it with crusty garlic bread, or enjoying it alone, shrimp scampi is versatile and endlessly satisfying. Plus, with this guide’s tips, tricks, and variations, you can customize the dish to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

So, gather your ingredients, roll your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a home-cooked masterpiece. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you’ve tried. Happy cooking!