Easy Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a quick and tasty dish that brings the flavors of the classic restaurant right to your kitchen. It features succulent shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce with a splash of lemon, tossed with tender pasta. The dish is bright, buttery, and full of fresh flavors that make it feel like a special treat any night of the week.
I love making this recipe when I want a restaurant-style meal without the wait or the fuss. It comes together in no time, and the garlic butter sauce is so flavorful that it really makes the shrimp shine. A simple sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh touch and makes it look just as good as it tastes. I always find myself craving that rich, garlicky sauce—it’s hard not to spoon it right over everything.
For serving, I like to pair this shrimp scampi with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies to keep things light but satisfying. Sometimes, I even add a bit of crusty bread for soaking up the extra sauce, which is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making dinner for yourself or guests, this dish feels comforting and special without needing to spend hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for a nice bite and quick cooking. You can use frozen shrimp too; just thaw them well before cooking. If you’re allergic to shellfish, try scallops or firm white fish instead.
Angel Hair Pasta: This thin pasta soaks up the sauce perfectly. You can swap it for spaghetti or linguine if you prefer thicker noodles.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture, while olive oil helps prevent burning. Use all butter if you like it extra rich, or substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
White Wine or Chicken Broth: Wine adds acidity and depth, but chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic alternative that still keeps it flavorful.
Garlic & Red Pepper Flakes: Fresh garlic is key for that signature flavor. Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your heat level or skip them if you prefer no spice.
How Do You Avoid Overcooking Shrimp in Scampi?
Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch them closely to keep them tender and juicy. Overcooked shrimp get tough and rubbery, which can ruin the dish’s texture.
- Heat the skillet over medium to medium-high heat so the shrimp cook fast but evenly.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side—wait until they turn pink and opaque and curl up slightly.
- Remove shrimp from heat as soon as they’re done and add them back later if the sauce needs more time.
This way, your shrimp stay juicy, tender, and full of flavor every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta quickly and evenly.
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking shrimp and making the sauce in one pan.
- Colander – to drain pasta easily without losing any noodles.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir gently without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of butter, wine, and spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of white fish to change up the seafood.
- Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for a pop of color and freshness.
- Mix in a pinch of Italian seasoning or basil for an herby twist.
- Top with grated Parmesan or mozzarella for extra cheesy richness.
Easy Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp and Pasta:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 8 ounces angel hair pasta or thin spaghetti
Sauce and Seasonings:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This shrimp scampi recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. Plan for 10 minutes to boil and cook the pasta, then about 10 minutes more for sautéing the shrimp and making the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s a quick meal perfect for a weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente (tender but still slightly firm). Drain the pasta and save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce and Shrimp:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Next, add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and curl up.
3. Add Wine and Lemon, Finish the Sauce:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Use a spatula to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pan, letting the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to reduce just a little. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
5. Finish and Serve:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and adjust salt and pepper tasting as needed. Serve your shrimp scampi immediately on warmed plates. Top with extra parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Enjoy your quick, delicious, and buttery shrimp scampi just like Red Lobster’s!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way is to thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture when cooking.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great substitute that still adds nice flavor. You can also try vegetable broth or even water with a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make Shrimp Scampi Ahead of Time?
While shrimp is best cooked fresh to avoid rubberiness, you can prepare the sauce and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately and add freshly cooked shrimp right before serving for the best taste and texture.