This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is a delightful way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood in your own home. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce that’s sure to impress. With a zesty lime twist and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it stands out as a quick yet indulgent option that can be made in under 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 Garnish
- 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 Rice
- With Fresh Salad
- As an Appetizer
- With Roasted Vegetables
- How to Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Reheating Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of shrimp should I use for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
- Can I substitute the white wine in this recipe?
- How can I customize my Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
- Is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?
- How can I make my sauce thicker?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, white wine, and butter creates an irresistible sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread for dipping—adapt it to your taste!
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan, it’s visually stunning and perfect for entertaining.
- Healthier Indulgence: At approximately 328 calories per serving, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without too much guilt.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of shrimp while providing enough space for the sauce to develop.
- Wooden Spoon: Helps in deglazing the pan effectively without scratching its surface.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients ensures balanced flavors in your scampi.
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
- 6 tablespoons butter
For Garnish
- 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 skillet and keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant; add a splash more oil if needed.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine and Lime
Pour in the dry white wine and lime juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits from 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 everything simmer together for an additional 2–3 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add Butter
Lower the heat to low. Once the skillet cools slightly and bubbles subside, add butter stirring until melted and fully combined into the sauce.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Return shrimp along with any juices back into the pan. Add chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Let everything warm through for another 1–2 minutes until well combined.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve immediately while your Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is hot and saucy. It pairs wonderfully over pasta, rice, or simply with crusty bread for dipping!
How to Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside fresh vegetables, there are countless options to enhance your dining experience.
Over Pasta
- Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic Italian touch.
- Try adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair the dish with warm, crusty French bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic bread also makes an excellent choice for dipping and adds an extra layer of flavor.
On Rice
- Serve the shrimp scampi over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
- Season the rice with a bit of lime juice and parsley to complement the shrimp flavors.
With Fresh Salad
- A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the scampi.
- Include mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
As an Appetizer
- Present smaller portions as a starter at your next dinner party.
- Serve in individual ramekins with toothpicks for easy enjoyment.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli adds color and nutrition to your meal.
- Drizzle vegetables with olive oil and season before roasting to enhance their flavors.

How to Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Making perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi at home is all about technique and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp will greatly improve the flavor and texture of your scampi. Look for wild-caught shrimp if possible.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque to ensure they remain tender. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Balance flavors: Adjust lime juice and red pepper flakes according to your taste. This ensures that the flavors are well-rounded and not too overpowering.
- Keep it hot: Serve immediately after cooking while everything is hot and saucy. This maintains optimal flavor and presentation.
- Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme can give your dish an additional depth of flavor beyond parsley.
- Use quality wine: A good dry white wine enhances the sauce significantly. Avoid cooking wines as they can contain added salts and preservatives that affect taste.
Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
To round out your meal featuring Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, consider these delicious side dishes. Each one complements the rich flavors of the scampi beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing brings a nice crunch.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition; steam lightly to keep it crisp-tender.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is a great base that pairs well with the buttery sauce.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic make a hearty side option that everyone loves.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a fresh contrast to the rich scampi.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced veggies offers both health benefits and satisfying texture.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the shrimp prep: Failing to peel and devein shrimp can lead to an unpleasant texture. Always prepare your shrimp properly for the best results.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long makes them tough. Aim for just 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Not seasoning adequately: Forgetting salt and pepper can dull the flavors. Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances the overall taste of the scampi.
- Using low-quality wine: Cheap wine can ruin the sauce’s flavor. Choose a dry white wine that you would enjoy drinking for better results.
- Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using stale garlic or old herbs diminishes flavor. Fresh ingredients make a notable difference in this dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date for easy identification.
Reheating Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish at medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi that might help you in your cooking journey.
What type of shrimp should I use for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
You should use large shrimp, preferably wild-caught or sustainably sourced. They provide better flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the white wine in this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken broth or seafood stock as a non-alcoholic substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
How can I customize my Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color. You can also adjust spices based on your heat preference.
Is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
How can I make my sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can let it simmer longer before adding butter or incorporate a cornstarch slurry made with water.
Final Thoughts
This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices! Try this indulgent dish tonight!
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Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the flavors of the sea with this easy Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe, perfect for a cozy date night or a family dinner. This dish features tender, succulent shrimp enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce infused with zesty lime and aromatic Italian spices. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an impressive meal that pairs beautifully with pasta, crusty bread, or rice. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this delightful scampi will transport you to your favorite seafood restaurant without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large 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
- Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in white wine and lime juice; scrape any browned bits from the pan and simmer until reduced by half (6–8 minutes).
- Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes; simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low; add butter and stir until melted.
- Return shrimp to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Add chopped parsley and Parmesan; warm through for another minute or two.
- Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 328
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 220mg