06/02/2026
Red Lobster-style Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–21 count preferred)
4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (flat-leaf preferred)
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 ounces linguine or spaghetti (gluten-free pasta works too)
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter. When it melts and starts to foam, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Don't let it brown.
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes, flipping once, until the shrimp turn pink and curl. If a few finish early, you can move them out so they don't overcook.
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for 2–3 minutes so the sauce concentrates and the alcohol cooks off.
Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If the sauce tastes a little sharp, add a tablespoon more butter or 1–2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to smooth it out. Don't worry if it looks a little runny at first; it'll come together.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until it's well coated. Use a splash of the reserved pasta water if you need to loosen the sauce. Serve right away with grated Parmesan cheese, if you'd like.