Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi
Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi is a quick, flavorful seafood dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter sauce with hints of white wine and fresh lemon juice. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this buttery, garlicky recipe pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables, offering a versatile and impressive meal that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh shrimp.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Shrimp and Protein
- 1 lb fresh peeled and deveined shrimp
Sauce and Seasonings
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Base
- 8 oz angel hair pasta or linguine, cooked according to package instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Start with peeled and deveined shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Make the Sauce: Pour white wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Then add fresh lemon juice, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Add the cooked pasta (angel hair or linguine) and gently toss to combine and heat through. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cooking shrimp in batches ensures a perfect sear and avoids steaming.
- Use fresh minced garlic rather than garlic powder or pre-minced for superior aroma and flavor.
- Choose medium to large shrimp for better texture and ease of cooking.
- Maintain medium heat to preserve garlic aroma without burning the butter.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter, fresher taste.
- If desired, add vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free noodles or zucchini noodles.
- Butter can be replaced with vegan butter or additional olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of olive oil or water to avoid overcooking shrimp.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
Keywords: shrimp scampi, garlic butter shrimp, Red Lobster shrimp, seafood pasta, quick shrimp recipe, easy scampi, gluten free scampi