Best Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the rich, buttery, and garlicky flavors of a seafood dish at Red Lobster, you’re in for a treat. This Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe captures everything you love about the restaurant classic, with plump, tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up right in your own kitchen for a seafood feast that feels indulgent yet perfectly homemade. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a simple but impressive dinner, this recipe will have you reaching for seconds and impressing everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Mirrors the iconic taste of Red Lobster’s shrimp scampi with rich garlic butter and fresh herbs.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides like pasta, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up every last drop.
• Family-Friendly: Mild, buttery, and flavorful, appealing to all ages and tastes.
• Customizable: Simple variations allow you to adjust spices, add veggies, or make it low-carb.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. The fresh shrimp forms the star, while garlic butter sauce brings that irresistible richness and aroma.

• Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these offer a tender surface that soaks up every bit of sauce.
• Unsalted butter: Provides the creamy, buttery base that defines this dish’s comforting taste.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced, they infuse the sauce with pungent, zesty warmth.
• Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth to balance the richness of the butter (can substitute with broth).
• Lemon juice: Brightens the flavor with a refreshing citrus burst, balancing the hearty sauce.
• Red pepper flakes: A pinch to give just enough heat without overpowering the buttery garlic notes.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled at the end for a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
• Salt and black pepper: To season perfectly and enhance all flavors.
• Optional: Olive oil: Helps sauté garlic before adding butter for extra flavor depth.

Variations for Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

This recipe is a fantastic foundation that you can easily personalize to fit your dietary preferences or mood. Feel free to mix it up by changing up flavors, adding veggies, or making it lighter.

• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a bolder, fiery version.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for color and nutrients.
• Low-Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Gluten-Free: Skip wine or use gluten-free wine, and watch carefully for hidden gluten in packaged ingredients.
• Herb Twist: Swap parsley with basil or cilantro for fresh variations in aroma and taste.

How to Make Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining large shrimp if not prepped already. Pat them dry with paper towels, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper to bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add freshly minced garlic. Cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, taking care not to burn the garlic and turn it bitter.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add the unsalted butter to the pan, allowing it to melt slowly, then pour in dry white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors and reduce slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn opaque and curl up nicely. Toss occasionally to coat them evenly in the buttery sauce.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Sprinkle red pepper flakes, adjust salt and pepper to taste, then finish off with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbal brightness.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh or properly thawed shrimp to ensure tender and juicy results.
• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook very quickly and become rubbery if left on heat too long—watch closely!
• Use Quality Butter: Real unsalted butter makes a noticeable difference in richness and mouthfeel.
• Deglaze Well: Add wine or broth to scrape up any browned bits on the pan to boost sauce depth.
• Balance Flavors: Lemon juice is key—too little will leave it greasy, too much will overpower.

How to Serve Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or even finely chopped chives adds beautiful color and a subtle herbaceous note to complete the dish.

Side Dishes

Serve over linguine, angel hair pasta, or alongside garlic bread for soaking up the buttery sauce. Steamed rice or a crisp green salad also pair wonderfully to balance richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fancy touch, serve shrimp scampi in individual plates lined with lemon slices or arrange it over a bed of sautéed spinach for a vibrant, eye-catching plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—freeze in meal-sized portions after cooling completely, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm your shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of butter or olive oil to rejuvenate the sauce without overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can dilute the sauce.

Is white wine necessary in the sauce?

While it adds depth and acidity, you can substitute chicken broth or seafood stock if you prefer a non-alcoholic version with great flavor.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Swap out butter for a vegan butter or olive oil, and skip any garnishes containing dairy for a delicious dairy-free twist.

Can I prepare this dish for a large group?

Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients and cook the shrimp in batches to maintain even cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan.

What’s the best way to reheat without overcooking the shrimp?

Reheat gently on low heat with a little added sauce or butter, stirring often to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about recreating a restaurant favorite like the Copycat Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi in your own kitchen. With buttery, garlicky shrimp and a bright hint of lemon, this recipe promises a delicious seafood experience that’s easy, quick, and sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the taste of Red Lobster anytime you want without leaving home!

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