If you’ve ever been to Red Lobster and had the pleasure of indulging in their Shrimp Scampi, you know just how irresistible it is. The tender shrimp, buttery sauce, and aromatic garlic combine for a dish that is nothing short of comforting. Well, what if I told you that you could make this exact dish at home—without having to wait for your next trip to the restaurant? Yes, it’s possible, and I’m going to walk you through it!

There’s something magical about shrimp scampi. It’s one of those dishes that feels both elegant and cozy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to make! All you need are a few key ingredients, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the recipe. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this classic Red Lobster-inspired Shrimp Scampi from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Shrimp Scampi

To recreate this delicious dish, you’ll need some staple ingredients that bring everything together perfectly. Here’s what you need to gather:

• Shrimp: Go for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. This will give you that juicy, meaty texture that’s essential for a good shrimp scampi. Trust me, it’s worth using good-quality shrimp for this dish.

• Butter and Olive Oil: The combo of butter and olive oil is the key to a rich, flavorful base for the sauce. The butter adds that indulgent richness, while the olive oil helps cook everything evenly.

• Garlic: This is the heart of the flavor in shrimp scampi. Fresh garlic, minced, will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

• White Wine: A dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, brings the perfect level of brightness and depth to the sauce. If you don’t have wine on hand, you can substitute with chicken broth and add a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice to get that tangy balance.

• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice will provide a zesty, fresh contrast to the rich buttery sauce, giving the dish a light and refreshing touch.

• Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for garnish—it adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that rounds out the flavors.

• Parmesan Cheese (optional): While not strictly necessary, adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the dish that extra layer of depth and creaminess.

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Before we get cooking, let’s take a moment to prep our shrimp. This is a simple step, but it makes a big difference when it comes to cooking the shrimp evenly. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the shrimp cook evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy. Once they’re dry, lightly season them with a bit of salt and pepper. You don’t need to go overboard with the seasoning since the sauce will provide plenty of flavor, but a little seasoning on the shrimp itself helps bring out its natural sweetness.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Now, it’s time to cook those shrimp! Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the pan; if your skillet is too small, you may want to cook the shrimp in batches. You’ll want to cook them for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. They should be slightly golden at the edges, but make sure not to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, and nobody wants that!

Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Don’t worry; we’re going to bring them back into the action shortly!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This is where all the magic happens. Let the butter melt and the oil heat up before adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1–2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—it can turn bitter if it gets too dark.

If you’re a fan of a little heat, you can toss in some crushed red pepper flakes at this point. It’s entirely optional, but I love the little bit of spice it adds. The garlic and red pepper flakes together are like the ultimate flavor combo!

Once the garlic is fragrant, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth, if you’re going that route), and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits on the bottom of the skillet. That’s where a lot of the flavor lives, so be sure to get it all! Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to reduce and concentrate the flavors. The sauce should thicken slightly and become glossy. You’re getting so close now!

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Now comes the best part—putting everything together! Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the flavorful sauce so they’re coated. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon, and stir in the freshly chopped parsley. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can also toss in some Parmesan cheese at this stage. The cheese adds a lovely creamy texture and a savory kick that elevates the entire dish.

Take a quick taste of the sauce, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This is your moment to make sure everything tastes just right!

Step 5: Serve

Once everything is perfectly combined, it’s time to serve your shrimp scampi. You can serve it over your favorite pasta—angel hair or linguine are great choices—or keep it low-carb by pairing it with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to add a side of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. The sauce is so good, you won’t want to let a drop go to waste!

Step 6: Explore Flavor Variations

One of the great things about shrimp scampi is its versatility. While the classic recipe is already packed with flavor, you can easily switch things up to suit your personal preferences or create a unique twist. Here are a few ideas to make the dish your own:

• Add Vegetables: If you want to incorporate more veggies into your meal, feel free to add some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus to the sauce. These vegetables pair beautifully with the shrimp and add color, texture, and extra nutrients.

• Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper. The little kick of spice contrasts wonderfully with the rich buttery sauce and brings a whole new level of excitement to the dish.

• Herbs: While parsley is the go-to herb for shrimp scampi, you could experiment with adding a little bit of fresh basil or thyme to the sauce. Both of these herbs would provide a different flavor profile that still complements the shrimp and garlic wonderfully.

• Switch Up the Cheese: Although Parmesan is the classic cheese for shrimp scampi, you could also try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor. If you’re a fan of creamy dishes, consider mixing in a small amount of mascarpone cheese or cream cheese to give the sauce a richer, velvety texture.

• Lemon Zest: If you love a more pronounced citrus flavor, try adding some lemon zest to the sauce along with the lemon juice. The zest will amplify the lemony brightness and add a delightful aroma.

Step 7: Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi Every Time

Making shrimp scampi is easy, but there are a few tricks to ensure your shrimp is cooked just right, the sauce is smooth and balanced, and everything comes together beautifully. Here are some expert tips to guide you:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: This is key. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery and lose their delicate texture. Remember, shrimp cook quickly—about 2-3 minutes per side in a hot skillet is all it takes. Remove them as soon as they’re opaque and pink. It’s okay if they’re slightly undercooked when you remove them from the skillet; they’ll continue to cook once added back to the sauce.

• Pat the Shrimp Dry: Before you season and cook your shrimp, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels. This prevents them from steaming in the pan, allowing for a nice sear that adds flavor. It also helps them cook more evenly.

• Use a Large Skillet: To ensure the shrimp cook properly, use a large enough skillet. Overcrowding the pan means the shrimp will steam rather than sear, which can affect their texture and flavor. If needed, cook the shrimp in batches.

• Don’t Skip the Deglazing Step: Scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan is crucial for flavor. These bits are packed with caramelized goodness, and deglazing the pan with wine or broth is how you get that deep, savory taste in the sauce. Don’t rush this step—let the liquid reduce to concentrate the flavor.

• Taste and Adjust the Sauce: After combining the shrimp with the sauce, taste it before serving. If it needs more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, don’t hesitate to add it. It’s always good to check and adjust the seasoning so everything is balanced perfectly.

Step 8: Serving Ideas to Complement Your Shrimp Scampi

Once your shrimp scampi is ready to go, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it. Shrimp scampi is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the whole meal. Here are a few ideas to complete your dinner:

• Pasta: This is the classic pairing! Pasta is the perfect vehicle for soaking up that buttery, garlicky sauce. Angel hair and linguine are popular choices, but feel free to use whatever pasta you love best. You could even make a homemade garlic bread to dip into the sauce!

• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking for a lighter side, steamed or roasted vegetables are a great option. Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans would all complement the shrimp scampi’s rich sauce without overpowering it.

• Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is a wonderful contrast to the richness of the shrimp scampi. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a Caesar salad if you want something more indulgent.

• Rice or Risotto: For a heartier option, you could serve the shrimp scampi with a side of rice or creamy risotto. The sauce will soak into the rice, making every bite a burst of flavor.

Step 9: Make Ahead and Storage Tips

While shrimp scampi is best served fresh, you can definitely make it ahead if needed. Here’s how:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and cook the shrimp, then toss them together. This can save you some time on busy evenings!

• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover shrimp scampi, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating—just warm them through.

• Freezing: While freezing shrimp scampi is not ideal due to the texture of shrimp once thawed, you can freeze the sauce separately. Just freeze the sauce in a container, and when you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Cook fresh shrimp and toss them in the thawed sauce when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Scampi

As we wrap up our guide to making the perfect shrimp scampi, let’s dive into some of the most common questions I get asked about this dish. Whether you’re a first-time cook or just looking to perfect your technique, these answers should help clarify any lingering doubts and make your shrimp scampi experience even better!

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp scampi?

Absolutely! While fresh shrimp always works great, frozen shrimp can also be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or running cold water over them in a colander for about 10–15 minutes. Be sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking to prevent them from becoming too watery.

2. Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

If you’re not a fan of shrimp (or just want to try something different), you can absolutely substitute chicken for shrimp. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook it through in the same way you would the shrimp. You’ll still get that lovely buttery garlic sauce, but with the heartiness of chicken instead.

3. What kind of pasta should I use for shrimp scampi?

Angel hair or linguine are classic choices for shrimp scampi. These types of pasta have the perfect texture to soak up the delicious garlic-butter sauce without overpowering the shrimp. However, feel free to use any pasta you prefer—spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a gluten-free option will all work well.

4. Can I make shrimp scampi without white wine?

Yes, you can make shrimp scampi without white wine if you prefer not to use alcohol. Chicken broth or vegetable broth is a great substitute. To add a little acidity and brightness, you can also squeeze in a bit more lemon juice or add a splash of white vinegar. This will give your sauce a similar depth of flavor without the wine.

5. How do I prevent the shrimp from being overcooked?

The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is not letting them sit in the skillet too long. Shrimp cook incredibly quickly, so once they turn pink and opaque (about 2–3 minutes per side), remove them from the pan. They’ll continue cooking in the residual heat when you toss them in the sauce, so don’t worry if they seem slightly undercooked when you take them out.

6. Can I make shrimp scampi ahead of time?

While shrimp scampi is best served fresh, you can certainly make the sauce ahead of time. Prepare the sauce as usual, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and cook the shrimp separately. Combine the two and toss them together when ready to serve. This can help save time, especially if you’re making it for a dinner party or busy weeknight.

7. Can I add cream to the sauce for a richer flavor?

Yes! If you prefer a richer, creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. This will give the dish a velvety, indulgent texture that takes the classic shrimp scampi to another level. If you go this route, I recommend reducing the amount of butter slightly so the sauce doesn’t become too heavy.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Shrimp Scampi!

Now that you’ve got all the details, tips, and tricks to make the perfect shrimp scampi, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it to family for a casual dinner or impressing friends at a dinner party. With its buttery garlic sauce, succulent shrimp, and fresh lemony finish, shrimp scampi is a timeless recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Remember, the key to success is not rushing through the process. From properly cooking the shrimp to adjusting the seasoning at the end, each step matters in achieving that perfect balance of flavors. And feel free to play around with different variations—this recipe is as flexible as you want it to be!

Don’t forget to pair it with a side of pasta, vegetables, or a fresh salad to round out the meal. And most importantly, enjoy every bite! I’d love to hear how your shrimp scampi turns out. Did you make any changes or try a fun variation? Drop a comment and let me know—I’m always excited to hear how you put your spin on this classic dish.

Happy cooking, and I hope this shrimp scampi becomes a staple in your recipe rotation!