How to Make Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe Like a Pro

Craving the rich, buttery flavors of Red Lobster shrimp scampi but want to recreate it at home? This copycat shrimp scampi recipe delivers all the restaurant-quality taste without leaving your kitchen. With its succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy shrimp scampi recipe or a wine-free alternative, this guide has you covered.

What makes this garlic butter shrimp pasta so irresistible is its balance of savory, tangy, and slightly garlicky notes. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the decadent sauce, and you’ve got a meal that rivals your favorite seafood restaurant.

Ready to master the art of making Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe like a pro? Let’s dive into this foolproof guide and bring the taste of Red Lobster to your table!

Quick Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 450 | Fat: 22g | Carbs: 38g | Sugar: 4g | Protein: 25g

Key Equipment:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pot for boiling pasta

Ingredients:

• For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine, optional for red lobster shrimp scampi recipe without wine )
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Shrimp and Pasta:
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 12 oz linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

This quick guide ensures you can whip up a batch of garlic butter shrimp pasta effortlessly. With these simple ingredients, you’re ready to make one of the best copycat shrimp scampi recipes at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe is easier than you think, and with these simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time. Follow along to create a creamy, garlicky garlic butter shrimp pasta that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta (linguine works best for an authentic copycat shrimp scampi recipe ) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid will help thicken the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil to prevent the butter from burning, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step ensures your shrimp scampi recipe has a rich, garlicky base.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasoning

Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine if using) and lemon juice. Stir in the lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if desired), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor. If you’re making a red lobster shrimp scampi recipe without wine , the chicken broth provides a delicious alternative.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they become pink and opaque. Take care not to overcook the shrimp, as they may turn rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce. Then, return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the dish with chopped parsley and serve immediately. Provide grated Parmesan cheese on the side for extra richness. For an extra touch, garnish with additional lemon wedges to highlight the citrus flavors in this copycat shrimp scampi recipe .

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Making this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe is simple, but these expert tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish to perfection. Whether you’re aiming for an authentic copycat shrimp scampi recipe or a red lobster shrimp scampi recipe without wine , these insights will ensure success every time.

Professional Chef Insights:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley are key to achieving the bright, vibrant flavors of a garlic butter shrimp pasta . Avoid pre-minced garlic or bottled lemon juice for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. For the perfect texture in your shrimp scampi recipe , remove the shrimp as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Add Extra Butter for Richness: If you want your sauce to mimic the decadence of Red Lobster’s version, add an extra tablespoon of butter at the end for a glossy finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Sauce Too Thin: If the sauce in your red lobster shrimp scampi recipe is too watery, simmer it for an additional 2-3 minutes to reduce. Alternatively, add reserved pasta water gradually to thicken the sauce naturally.
• Not Enough Flavor: If the dish tastes bland, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Adding a splash of white wine (or extra chicken broth for a red lobster shrimp scampi recipe without wine ) can also boost the flavor profile.
• Shrimp Too Chewy: Chewy shrimp often result from overcooking. To avoid this in your copycat shrimp scampi recipe , remove the shrimp from the skillet as soon as they curl and turn pink.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

You can prepare components of this red lobster shrimp scampi recipe ahead of time. Cook the pasta and store it in the refrigerator, and prep the garlic butter sauce ingredients in advance. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, toss everything together, and enjoy a quick, restaurant-quality meal.

Storage Guidelines:

Store leftovers of your shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to restore moisture. Note that the texture of the shrimp may soften slightly upon reheating.

With these tips, you’ll master the art of making a perfect Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe like a pro!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re catering to specific preferences or experimenting with flavors, these customizations will keep your copycat shrimp scampi recipe exciting and unique.

Flavor Enhancements:

• Add Heat: For a spicier twist on your garlic butter shrimp pasta , increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. You can also toss in sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Boost Umami: Incorporate a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan into the sauce for a deeper, savory flavor that elevates your easy shrimp scampi recipe .
• Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or thyme alongside the parsley for an aromatic touch that complements the garlic and lemon in your red lobster shrimp scampi recipe .

Dietary Modifications:

• Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and serve the shrimp and sauce over zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version of this copycat shrimp scampi recipe .
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this red lobster shrimp scampi recipe safe for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative to create a dairy-free garlic butter shrimp pasta that’s just as rich and satisfying.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Protein Variations: Swap shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian take on this easy shrimp scampi recipe . Each option pairs beautifully with the garlic butter sauce.
• Liquids Alternatives: If you’re making a red lobster shrimp scampi recipe without wine , use vegetable broth, seafood stock, or additional lemon juice to maintain the dish’s bright, tangy flavor.
• Pasta Choices: Experiment with different pasta shapes like angel hair, fettuccine, or even whole-grain options to customize the texture of your copycat shrimp scampi recipe .

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the garlic butter shrimp pasta with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the flavorful sauce—just like at Red Lobster!
• Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, for a balanced meal that highlights the simplicity of this easy shrimp scampi recipe .
• Package individual portions in meal prep containers for a quick and satisfying lunch throughout the week.

With these variations, your Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe can suit any occasion, taste preference, or dietary need—ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate guide to making a Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe that rivals the restaurant’s classic dish. With its succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a decadent garlic butter sauce, this copycat shrimp scampi recipe is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

What makes this easy shrimp scampi recipe so special is its balance of convenience and customization. Using fresh ingredients and pantry staples ensures every bite is packed with the rich, tangy flavors you love without requiring hours in the kitchen. Plus, with options like a red lobster shrimp scampi recipe without wine or low-carb alternatives, it’s easy to adapt to any taste or dietary preference. Best of all, it’s simple enough for home cooks of all skill levels to master.

So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to create a dish that will bring joy to your table—just like a perfectly made garlic butter shrimp pasta should. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress your guests, this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe is your ticket to success.

Happy cooking, and may every bite remind you why this dish is a timeless favorite!

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe ?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly in the skillet.

2. What can I substitute for white wine in this copycat shrimp scampi recipe ?

If you’re making a red lobster shrimp scampi recipe without wine , substitute it with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or additional lemon juice. These alternatives maintain the dish’s bright, tangy flavor without compromising the taste.

3. Why is my sauce too thin?

If the sauce in your garlic butter shrimp pasta is too watery, simmer it for an additional 2-3 minutes to reduce. Alternatively, add reserved pasta water gradually to thicken the sauce naturally and help it cling to the pasta.

4. How do I store leftovers of this easy shrimp scampi recipe ?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to restore moisture. Note that the texture of the shrimp may soften slightly upon reheating.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare components of this red lobster shrimp scampi recipe ahead of time. Cook the pasta and store it in the refrigerator, and prep the garlic butter sauce ingredients in advance. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, toss everything together, and enjoy a quick, restaurant-quality meal.

6. What sides pair well with garlic butter shrimp pasta ?

This copycat shrimp scampi recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic knots, steamed vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.

7. Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine is traditional, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, angel hair, or even whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist. Each option works well with the rich flavors of this easy shrimp scampi recipe .