The Silkiest Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Seafood lovers crave a mouthwatering Red Lobster shrimp scampi recipe that brings restaurant magic right into your kitchen.

Succulent shrimp dancing in a buttery, garlic-infused sauce promise an unforgettable dining experience.

Mediterranean flavors mingle effortlessly with delicate shellfish, creating a symphony of taste.

Butter and white wine form the perfect backdrop for these tender morsels.

Garlic adds a punch of aromatic intensity that makes every bite memorable.

Quick and simple preparation means you can enjoy this luxurious dish without hours of complicated cooking.

Mastering this classic ensures you’ll impress even the most discerning dinner guests with minimal effort.

Pro Tips to Enhance Shrimp Scampi Flavors

• Watch carefully and cook just until pink and opaque to prevent rubbery texture, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side.
• Mince garlic finely and sauté briefly to release aromatic oils without burning, creating a rich, subtle base for the dish.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal heat preference, starting with a small pinch and adding more if desired.
• Cook pasta al dente to maintain a slight firmness, ensuring it doesn't become mushy when mixed with the shrimp and sauce.
• Chop fresh parsley just before serving to maximize flavor and add a vibrant, bright finish to the scampi.

Creative Swaps for Shrimp Scampi Variations

• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Scampi: Replace traditional pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, keto-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice instead of regular pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter with coconut oil or olive oil and use plant-based margarine for a dairy-free preparation.
• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Scampi: Add Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat and bold flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions to Elevate Shrimp Scampi

• Select a crisp, light Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that complements the delicate shrimp and cuts through the buttery sauce with refreshing acidity.
• Create a simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette to echo the bright citrus notes in the scampi and provide a fresh, crisp counterpoint to the rich dish.
• Serve warm, rustic Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious butter and garlic sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience with additional texture and flavor.

Storage Guide for Shrimp Scampi Leftovers

• Store leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled scampi to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Seal tightly, removing excess air. Frozen shrimp scampi can last up to 2 months without losing significant flavor quality.
• Place portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed thoroughly.

FAQs

• Is shrimp scampi difficult to make at home?

No, this recipe is surprisingly simple and takes only about 15-20 minutes to prepare. Even beginner cooks can successfully make delicious shrimp scampi with just a few basic ingredients and steps.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps ensure the shrimp sear properly and develop a nice golden color.

• What type of pasta works best with shrimp scampi?

Linguine and angel hair pasta are traditional choices, but you can also use spaghetti or fettuccine. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the buttery, garlicky sauce well.

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Made Deliciously Simple

• Savor Seafood Delight: Shrimp scampi brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen with minimal cooking skills required.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare this stunning dish in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don't want to spend hours cooking.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Simple ingredients and straightforward techniques mean everyone from novice cooks to seasoned chefs can enjoy creating this crowd-pleasing meal that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Easily adaptable for different preferences by adjusting spice levels, serving with various sides like salad or garlic bread, and suitable for casual dinners or slightly more elegant gatherings.

Key Ingredients for Classic Shrimp Scampi

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that serves as the star protein of this classic scampi dish.

• Pasta: Provides a delicious foundation for the shrimp and sauce to cling to.

• Butter, Olive Oil: Create a rich and smooth base for cooking the shrimp and adding depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic element that is essential to the traditional scampi taste.
• Lemon Juice: Brings a bright, citrusy tang that cuts through the richness of the butter.

• Salt: Helps to season the pasta water and enhance overall dish flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient that adds a subtle heat and spicy kick.
• Fresh Parsley: Provides a fresh, green garnish that adds color and a light herbal note to the dish.

Instructions to Master Shrimp Scampi at Home

Step 1: Prepare Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop the pasta into the boiling water and cook until it reaches al dente perfection, typically 8-10 minutes.

The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Base

Heat a skillet over medium heat.

Add butter and olive oil, allowing them to mingle and create a golden, bubbling mixture. Sprinkle in minced garlic and let it dance in the pan for about a minute, releasing its aromatic essence.

Step 3: Cook Succulent Shrimp

Gently place the shrimp into the skillet. Let them sizzle and transform, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink and become wonderfully opaque.

Step 4: Add Bright Flavors

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, letting the citrusy brightness cut through the richness. If you enjoy a touch of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes across the skillet.

Softly stir to distribute the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Shrimp

Drain the cooked pasta and transfer it directly into the skillet with the shrimp.

Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta gets coated in the luxurious garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Shower the dish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.

Serve immediately while the dish is piping hot, ready to transport you to seafood heaven.

Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

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4.9 from 32 reviews

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

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Description

Seafood enthusiasts will delight in this Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi, a classic Italian-American dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to home kitchens. Succulent shrimp swim in a garlic-butter sauce, promising a quick, elegant meal that transports diners straight to coastal dining bliss.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Pasta:

• 8 ounces (227 grams) spaghetti or linguine

Flavor Enhancers and Seasonings:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons (8 grams) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Submerge pasta into the boiling water, cooking for approximately 8-10 minutes until reaching al dente texture, then drain thoroughly.
3. Place a skillet on medium heat, combine butter and olive oil, allowing the mixture to become frothy and hot.
4. Introduce minced garlic to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
5. Carefully place raw shrimp into the heated skillet, cooking approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until they transform to a vibrant pink color and appear translucent.
6. Drizzle fresh lemon juice across the shrimp and optionally sprinkle red pepper flakes for additional warmth and complexity.
7. Transfer drained pasta directly into the skillet with cooked shrimp, gently tossing to ensure even coating and distribution of flavors.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while piping hot, ensuring maximum flavor and appetizing presentation.

Notes

• Opt for wild-caught shrimp for more robust flavor and sustainable seafood choice.
• Use freshly minced garlic instead of pre-chopped for maximum aromatic intensity and authentic taste.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference, starting with a pinch and increasing gradually.
• Cook shrimp just until they turn pink to prevent rubbery texture and maintain delicate tenderness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 195 mg