Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe brings the flavors of your favorite seafood restaurant right to your kitchen. It’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy juicy shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce, and impress your guests with this easy-to-make indulgence ready in under an hour.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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
• As an Appetizer
• With a Side Salad
• Garnished with Lemon Wedges
• How to Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
• Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
• Reheating Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
• Can I use frozen shrimp for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
• How do I customize my Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
• What should I serve with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prep and cook time is only 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic, white wine, and Parmesan creates a delightful taste that will transport you to your favorite seafood restaurant.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and aromatic herbs make for an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference—mild or fiery!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife for chopping
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for evenly cooking the shrimp and creating the sauce without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Great for deglazing the pan and ensuring all flavors are combined smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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

PIN THIS!

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 2 minutes on each side or until pink and opaque. 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 white wine and lime juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits from the pan. Let simmer and reduce by half for about 6–8 minutes.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Add Butter

Reduce heat to low. Once the skillet has cooled slightly and the wine has stopped bubbling, add butter. Stir until melted and well combined.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

Return the shrimp (and any juices) back into the pan. Add parsley and Parmesan cheese. Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve immediately while the scampi is hot and saucy. It’s great over pasta, rice, or served with crusty bread for dipping!

How to Serve Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Serving Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi can elevate any meal. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it a delightful centerpiece for any dinner.

Over Pasta

• Toss the scampi over cooked linguine or fettuccine for a classic Italian touch that absorbs the garlic butter sauce wonderfully.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the dish alongside freshly baked bread to soak up the rich, buttery sauce, enhancing each bite of shrimp.

On Rice

• Pair with fluffy white or brown rice to balance the flavors and add a hearty component to your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller portions as an appetizer, perfect for sharing before a main course, especially at gatherings or dinner parties.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp scampi, adding freshness to your plate.

Garnished with Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges enhance the dish’s flavor and provide a zesty finish when squeezed over the shrimp just before serving.

How to Perfect Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

To achieve the best version of Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen varieties. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Control heat carefully: Cooking shrimp on medium heat ensures they cook evenly without becoming rubbery. Avoid high heat for tender results.
• Add flavors gradually: Introduce ingredients like garlic and wine gradually to develop layers of flavor. Simmering time is crucial for melding these tastes.
• Don’t skimp on butter: The buttery sauce is a key element in this dish; using enough butter creates that creamy texture and rich taste characteristic of shrimp scampi.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference. Adding more red pepper flakes can increase heat if you enjoy spicy food.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve the dish right after cooking while it’s hot and saucy. Reheating can affect texture and flavor.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Pairing side dishes with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi can enhance your dining experience. Consider these options that complement its rich flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into the buttery sauce left on your plate.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds a cool crunch that pairs well with the warm scampi.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus adds color and is lightly seasoned to keep it fresh against the rich dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender provides great texture contrasts alongside the shrimp.
5. Risotto: Creamy risotto offers a luxurious base that complements the flavors of shrimp scampi wonderfully.
6. Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.
7. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf topped with herbs makes for a healthy yet flavorful accompaniment.
8. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes offer another hearty side option, allowing you to enjoy more of that delicious garlic butter sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, avoiding common mistakes ensures a delicious outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping fresh ingredients: Always use fresh shrimp and garlic for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp can work, but they may lack the same taste.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.
• Neglecting to deglaze: Skipping the deglazing step with wine can lead to a less flavorful sauce. Make sure to scrape the pan well to capture all those tasty bits.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Tasting as you cook is crucial. Adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preferences for the perfect balance.
• Rushing the butter addition: Adding butter too soon can separate it from the sauce. Wait until the skillet cools slightly before stirring in the butter.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

Freezing Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place scampi in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place scampi in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second increments until hot. Stir occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet while stirring gently until heated through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a flavorful seafood dish featuring shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with white wine and spices.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used but ensure they are properly thawed before cooking to achieve the best texture.

How do I customize my Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients. Adjust spices according to your taste as well.

What should I serve with Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread that can soak up the delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe captures restaurant-quality flavors right at home. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different ingredients or sides. Try this delightful dish for your next meal!