Best Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the buttery, garlicky flavors of a favorite seafood dish from Red Lobster, you’re in for a treat. This Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe captures all the magic with tender shrimp swimming in a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy dinner, this recipe blends simplicity and flavor perfectly, making it a reliable go-to for shrimp lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-quality at home: Enjoy Red Lobster’s famous flavors without leaving your kitchen, saving time and money.
• Buttery garlic goodness: The rich sauce perfectly complements the succulent shrimp for an indulgent flavor experience.
• Easy and quick preparation: From start to finish, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, ideal for weeknights.
• Versatile dish: Pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
• Impress everyone: Perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi calls for simple, fresh ingredients that balance each other beautifully. Each item contributes to the rich texture, vibrant taste, or color that makes this dish stand out from the rest.

• Fresh shrimp: Use medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best tenderness and flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Provides the creamy, velvety base that defines the scampi sauce’s richness.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic infuses the dish with its irresistible aroma and pungency.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and a slight tang that balances the buttery sauce.
• Dry white wine: Enhances the sauce with a subtle acidity and depth of flavor (can substitute chicken broth).
• Red pepper flakes: For a subtle spicy kick that lifts the dish without overwhelming it.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped garnish that brings color and a fresh herbal note.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential to season and bring all the flavors together perfectly.
• Pasta or bread: Optional, for serving and soaking up that amazing sauce.

Variations for Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Feel free to customize this Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe based on what you have on hand or personal taste preferences. It’s incredibly adaptable and can be modified for dietary needs without losing its signature flavor.

• Garlic and herb mix: Add fresh thyme or basil to deepen the herbal flavor profile.
• Spicy upgrade: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a fiery twist.
• Healthier option: Swap butter with olive oil and reduce the wine for a lighter dish.
• Gluten-free: Serve over zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta to keep it grain-free.
• Cheesy touch: Sprinkle shaved Parmesan or Pecorino Romano atop for a rich, cheesy finish.

How to Make Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with paper towels — dry shrimp sear better and absorb sauce flavors more deliciously.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and gently sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes, releasing that intoxicating aroma.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly opaque, being careful not to overcook.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine and Lemon

Pour in dry white wine and fresh lemon juice, stirring to scrape up any bits on the pan bottom. Let the mixture simmer and reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes to concentrate the flavor.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Sprinkle in salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes, then toss in chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Stir everything together and remove from heat.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

• Use fresh shrimp: Frozen shrimp can work, but thaw them completely and pat dry for the best texture.
• Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook quickly and will become rubbery if left too long in the pan.
• Fresh garlic only: Avoid pre-minced garlic to keep that vibrant, pungent flavor.
• Quality butter and wine: They make a noticeable difference in taste and depth of the sauce.
• Simmer briefly: Allow the sauce to reduce just enough to thicken slightly without burning off flavors.

How to Serve Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Garnishes

Fresh parsley chopped finely scattered on top adds an inviting splash of green, while a lemon wedge on the side invites an extra burst of zest. For an elegant touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan complements the buttery sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside linguine or angel hair pasta to create a satisfying meal, or opt for crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of the garlicky butter. For a lighter plate, steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach provide a fresh, vibrant balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner party, serve in individual mini cast iron skillets or scallop shells for that authentic seafood restaurant vibe. Pair the dish with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, keeping the flavors fresh and ready for a quick meal.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat your shrimp scampi on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or wine to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Microwaving works in a pinch but may overcook the shrimp, so use caution.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well if thawed completely and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess water interfering with the sauce.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, a good-quality chicken or vegetable broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice can replicate the acidity and depth.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a subtle heat from red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust or omit the flakes to suit your spice preference.

Can I make this without butter?

Butter is key for authentic richness, but substituting olive oil creates a lighter dish with a different, yet delicious, flavor.

How long does the shrimp scampi last in the fridge?

Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for the best taste and texture, as shrimp can lose quality quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe is a wonderful way to bring a beloved restaurant classic right into your own kitchen. With its buttery garlic sauce, tender shrimp, and effortless steps, it’s not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to recreate. Dive in and enjoy a seafood feast anytime you like — your taste buds will thank you!

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