There’s nothing quite like enjoying shrimp scampi from red lobster, but when the craving hits and going out isn’t an option, this delicious copycat recipe brings those same signature flavors right into your kitchen. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers the iconic taste your family already loves.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Copycat

Tastes just like the restaurant version
Ready in under 30 minutes
Uses simple, affordable ingredients
Family-friendly and elegant
Easy to customize to your taste

Fun fact: Shrimp scampi is inspired by Italian-style seafood dishes, but the American version became famous thanks to restaurant chains like Red Lobster.

Simple Ingredients

You only need a handful of pantry staples to recreate this classic dish.

Shrimp: Large or extra-large, peeled and deveined
Butter: Creates the signature rich scampi sauce
Olive Oil: Balances the butter and prevents burning
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential
White Wine: Adds depth and acidity
Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional heat
Parsley: Fresh, for garnish
Salt & Black Pepper: To taste

Servings & Time

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

What Is Needed

1 lb large shrimp
3 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup dry white wine
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Pour in white wine and lemon juice. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with parsley.

Top Tips

Pat shrimp dry before cooking
Use a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio
Don’t overcrowd the pan
Finish with fresh lemon zest for extra brightness
Serve immediately for best texture

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking shrimp
Using pre-minced garlic
Skipping the lemon
Cooking on high heat
Reducing the sauce too long

How to Customize This Recipe

Sweeter: Add a pinch of sugar
Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes
Tangier: Extra lemon juice
Thicker/Richer: Add another tablespoon of butter
Healthier: Reduce butter and add more olive oil

Extra Serving Ideas

Pairs perfectly with:

Linguine or angel hair pasta
Garlic bread
Steamed rice
Zucchini noodles
Roasted asparagus

Ingredient Substitutions

White Wine → Chicken Broth: Alcohol-free option
Butter → Vegan Butter: Dairy-free swap
Shrimp → Scallops: Elegant variation

Vegan Version: Use plant-based shrimp alternatives
Healthier Version: Serve over veggies instead of pasta

Short History of Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi became popular in the U.S. as an Italian-American adaptation of seafood cooked in garlic and butter. Red Lobster helped popularize it nationwide as a signature seafood entrée.

Recommended Equipment

Large skillet
Tongs
Citrus juicer
Measuring cups

Make-Ahead Tips

Peel and devein shrimp ahead of time
Mince garlic and refrigerate
Prep sauce ingredients separately

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Caesar salad
Garlic mashed potatoes
Roasted broccoli
Buttered noodles
Crusty French bread

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

This recipe is inspired by the iconic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi. It captures the same buttery garlic flavor and tender shrimp using simple ingredients while staying quick and budget-friendly.