The Classic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe Made Fresh at Home

Succulent shrimp scampi dances with buttery, garlicky flavors that transport you straight to coastal dining bliss.

Coastal kitchens have long celebrated this classic seafood dish for its simplicity and rich taste.

Mediterranean influences shine through each tender, perfectly cooked morsel of shellfish.

Garlic and white wine create a magical sauce that hugs every single shrimp.

Butter melts into a silky embrace, turning ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Professionals and home cooks alike adore this straightforward yet elegant recipe that comes together in minutes.

Dive into this delectable experience and make restaurant-quality shrimp scampi that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why the Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Is Worth Recreating

• Speed Culinary Adventure: Dive into a restaurant-quality meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner cravings.
• Restaurant-Inspired Elegance: Recreate the famous Red Lobster shrimp scampi in your own kitchen, impressing family and friends with professional-level cooking skills without professional training.
• Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a harmonious blend of zesty lemon, rich butter, tender shrimp, and aromatic garlic that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet dining experience.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Adaptable for date nights, family dinners, or entertaining guests, this recipe suits multiple occasions and satisfies diverse palates with its universal appeal.

Everything You Need for Shrimp Scampi at Home

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the star ingredient of this classic scampi dish.

• Pasta: Traditional foundation of the recipe that provides a delicious platform for the shrimp sauce.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Oregano: Essential spices that enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp and add depth to the dish.

• Olive Oil: High-heat cooking oil that helps sear the shrimp and prevents sticking.
• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create a smooth, silky sauce.

• Garlic: Provides a pungent and classic flavor that is signature to scampi dishes.
• White Wine: Adds complexity and helps deglaze the pan, releasing delicious browned bits.
• Lemon Juice: Brings bright, citrusy acidity that balances the richness of the dish.

• Heavy Cream: Optional ingredient that creates a luxurious and creamy sauce texture.

• Fresh Parsley, Parmesan Cheese, Lemon Wedge: Final ingredients that add color, freshness, and a bright finish to the dish.

How to Cook Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi with Ease

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Cook pasta in salted water following package directions until tender. Drain and set aside, keeping pasta warm.

Step 2: Prep Shrimp Like a Pro

Pat shrimp completely dry using paper towels to ensure perfect searing and prevent excess moisture.

Step 3: Season Shrimp Deliciously

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried oregano

Gently toss to distribute seasonings evenly across each shrimp.

Step 4: Heat Skillet Strategically

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Sear Shrimp Beautifully

Carefully place seasoned shrimp in hot skillet. Cook 1-2 minutes per side until pink with a light golden crust.

Step 6: Rest Shrimp Temporarily

Transfer seared shrimp to a plate, keeping them warm for later.

Step 7: Create Flavor Base

Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add butter, allowing it to melt and become slightly foamy.

Step 8: Infuse Garlic Essence

Add minced garlic, sautéing 30-45 seconds until fragrant. Avoid browning garlic.

Step 9: Deglaze with Wine

Pour white wine and lemon juice into skillet. Scrape browned bits from pan bottom.

Step 10: Reduce Sauce Perfectly

Simmer liquid 2-3 minutes to concentrate flavors and create a rich base.

Step 11: Add Creamy Touch

Stir in heavy cream to create a silky, luxurious sauce.

Step 12: Reunite Shrimp with Sauce

Return shrimp to skillet, gently coating each piece in the flavorful sauce.

Step 13: Finish with Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped parsley
• Grated parmesan cheese

Step 14: Serve and Enjoy

Plate shrimp over prepared pasta. Garnish with a fresh lemon wedge for a bright finish.

Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Shrimp Scampi

• Pat Shrimp Perfectly: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry shrimp, which helps achieve a beautiful golden sear and prevents watery cooking.
• Balance Seasoning Smartly: Don't overload shrimp with salt; a light, even coating of salt, pepper, and oregano enhances natural seafood flavors.
• Watch Garlic Carefully: Sauté garlic briefly to release aroma without burning, which can create bitter undertones in the sauce.
• Control Wine Reduction: Simmer wine and lemon juice slowly to concentrate flavors and create a rich, complex sauce base.
• Temperature Matters: Use medium-high heat for shrimp to ensure quick cooking and prevent rubbery texture, aiming for a light golden exterior.

Twists on the Classic Shrimp Scampi Recipe

• Spicy Jalapeño Shrimp Scampi: Add finely chopped jalapeños to the garlic for a kick of heat, creating a zesty and bold flavor profile that brings excitement to the classic dish.
• Mediterranean Herb Shrimp Scampi: Replace dried oregano with fresh basil, thyme, and rosemary, then incorporate crumbled feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired version.
• Coconut Curry Shrimp Scampi: Swap white wine with coconut milk and add mild curry powder, creating a creamy and aromatic Southeast Asian-inspired rendition that transforms the traditional recipe.

Pairings That Go Well with Shrimp Scampi

• Pair with Crisp Chardonnay: Select a light, unoaked California Chardonnay to complement the buttery, garlic-infused sauce without overwhelming the delicate shrimp flavors.
• Create Herb-Focused Side Salad: Prepare a fresh mixed green salad with dill, chives, and a light lemon vinaigrette that echoes the bright, citrusy notes of the shrimp scampi.
• Match with Garlic Bread: Bake a crusty French baguette brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with parmesan, perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce from the dish.

Storing and Reheating Shrimp Scampi the Right Way

• Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Separate the pasta and shrimp to prevent soggy texture.
• Transfer cooled shrimp scampi to a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent overcooking and maintain sauce consistency.
• Microwaving can make shrimp tough and rubbery, destroying the delicate texture and flavor of the original dish. Stick to stovetop reheating for best results.

FAQs for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

• What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal, preferably fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the most tender and flavorful result.

• How can I tell if the shrimp are cooked properly?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so watch carefully during the 1-2 minute cooking time.

• Can I substitute the white wine?

Yes, you can use chicken broth or seafood stock as an alternative if you prefer not to use alcohol. The key is to maintain the liquid’s flavor profile and help create the sauce.

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Dive into luxurious seafood with Red Lobster’s legendary shrimp scampi, where succulent shrimp swim in a buttery, garlic-infused white wine sauce. Delicate flavors and elegant simplicity will transport you to coastal dining bliss, making this dish a perfect centerpiece for memorable meals.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood:

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Liquids and Fats:

• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon, for garnish

Accompaniment:

• 8 oz linguine or angel hair pasta

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing and prevent excess moisture.
3. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and dried oregano, gently tossing to distribute seasonings evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot, approximately 2-3 minutes.
5. Carefully place seasoned shrimp in the skillet, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a light golden crust.
6. Remove shrimp from skillet and transfer to a plate, keeping them warm.
7. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet, allowing it to melt and become slightly foamy.
8. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
9. Pour white wine and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
10. Simmer the liquid for 2-3 minutes to reduce and concentrate flavors.
11. Stir in heavy cream if using, creating a silky sauce.
12. Return shrimp to the skillet, gently coating them in the sauce.
13. Sprinkle chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese over the shrimp.
14. Serve immediately over prepared pasta, garnishing with a fresh lemon wedge.

Notes

• Ensure shrimp are completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden crust and prevent steaming instead of searing.
• Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the most authentic and flavorful scampi experience.
• Select a crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the sauce’s depth and brightness.
• Customize the dish for dietary needs by substituting gluten-free pasta or using dairy-free butter alternatives for a lighter version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg