Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

If you’ve ever dined at Red Lobster, you’ve likely fallen in love with their iconic Shrimp Scampi. This classic dish features Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, served over pasta or with a side of crusty bread. The good news? You don’t have to visit the restaurant to enjoy this delicious meal. With this Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat Recipe, you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this restaurant-quality dish at home. From selecting the best shrimp to perfecting the garlic butter sauce, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll share tips for customizing the recipe, pairing it with sides, and storing leftovers.
So, let’s dive in and bring the flavors of Red Lobster to your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: This copycat recipe tastes just like the real thing.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of bread.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with family and friends alike.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
What Is Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian-American dish that features shrimp cooked in a flavorful sauce made with butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon juice. The dish is typically served over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Red Lobster’s version of Shrimp Scampi is particularly famous for its rich, buttery flavor and tender shrimp. With this copycat recipe, you can enjoy the same mouthwatering dish without leaving your home.
Ingredients:
(Serves 4)
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
- Crusty bread or garlic bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat Dry: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine and Serve
- Return the Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with a side of crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi

- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid rubbery texture.
- Adjust the Sauce: Add more or less garlic, lemon, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh garlic, real butter, and good-quality white wine make a big difference in flavor.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is so good, you’ll want leftovers!
What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Pasta: Serve over linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta.
- Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine rice or risotto.
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- Vegetables: Add a side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or a fresh green salad.
- Savor the Best Steak with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Sauce Tonight
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 18g
Dietary Modifications:
- Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative.
- Low-Carb: Skip the pasta and serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What can I use instead of white wine?
You can substitute with additional chicken broth or a splash of white wine vinegar.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp separately and combine them just before serving.
5. Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely! Try adding scallops, clams, or mussels for a seafood medley.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
- Date Night: Impress your partner with a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Family Dinner: A quick and easy dish that everyone will love.
- Holiday Meal: Perfect for special occasions like Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
- Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week.
Final Thoughts

This Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Copycat Recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover. With its rich, buttery garlic sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavor anytime.
Ready to try it? Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—they’ll be asking for the recipe!

Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Description
Craving Red Lobster’s Shrimp Scampi? Try this easy copycat recipe! Tender shrimp in a buttery garlic sauce, ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for pasta or bread!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Scampi:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
- Crusty bread or garlic bread
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat Dry: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine and Serve
- Return the Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with a side of crusty bread.
Notes
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid rubbery texture.
- Adjust the Sauce: Add more or less garlic, lemon, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 20minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 24g