Delicious Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe to Try Now

If you’ve ever been to Olive Garden, you know their Shrimp Scampi is something special. It’s the perfect balance of buttery garlic goodness with tender shrimp that just melts in your mouth. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or want to impress guests with a quick yet elegant dish, Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is your go-to recipe. I’ve made it countless times, and trust me, it’s easier than you think.

Let’s dive into how you can bring a taste of Olive Garden right to your kitchen—and make it just as delicious as the original! And if you’re a fan of their creamy sauces too, don’t miss this Olive Garden Alfredo Dipping Sauce—it’s perfect for breadsticks, pasta, or even veggies!

What is Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi?

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting, flavorful experience. Picture plump shrimp tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, complemented by a hint of white wine and fresh lemon. It’s served over a bed of pasta, creating the perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors that feel like a warm hug in every bite.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or not, this dish has a way of drawing you in with its mouthwatering combination of ingredients. It’s simple yet sophisticated, and the best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to recreate it at home!

Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe

To make Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi, you’ll need just a few key ingredients that come together to create that iconic, irresistible flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• ½ cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium Roma tomato, diced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 12 oz angel hair pasta, cooked and drained

Equipment and Tools

Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you’ve got all the necessary tools to make your Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi experience smooth and easy. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Skillet
• Pasta Pot
• Tongs
• Cooking Spoon
• Garlic Press (optional)

Cooking Time and Serving People

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

How to Make Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Making Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at home is easier than you might think! With these simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta water—this will help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Next, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth, if you prefer) and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce reduces slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce: Add the butter to the pan and stir it in until fully melted and combined with the wine and lemon juice, making the sauce rich and creamy. Once the butter has melted, add in the diced Roma tomato. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomato to soften and infuse the sauce with a touch of sweetness.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Pasta: Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them in the sauce. Add the cooked angel hair pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. The pasta should soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite irresistible. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well-mixed, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley to finish your Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi with a touch of freshness. Serve the dish immediately, topped with a little extra parsley for added color and flavor.

Serving Ideas for Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is so delicious on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your meal, there are some perfect sides to pair with it. Here are a few serving ideas that will complement your dish beautifully:

1. Garlic Bread: The classic pairing for shrimp scampi, garlic bread provides the perfect crunchy texture to soak up the rich sauce. A must-have for any Italian-inspired meal! For a cheesy twist, try this Delicious Panera Bread Grilled Cheese—it’s warm, melty, and pairs beautifully with shrimp scampi.

2. Caesar Salad: A simple Caesar salad with crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crispy croutons perfectly balances the buttery richness of your Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe and adds a refreshing touch to the plate. For a restaurant-style version, try this Cheesecake Factory Caesar Salad—it’s crisp, flavorful, and easy to make at home.

3. Steamed Vegetables: Light and healthy, steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a pop of color and freshness to your plate, balancing the rich flavors of the shrimp.

4. Fresh Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch and a contrast to the creamy shrimp scampi.

5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned roasted potatoes are hearty and satisfying, making them a perfect side dish to serve alongside shrimp scampi. Or, for something equally comforting, try this Golden Corral Mashed Potatoes Copycat for a rich and creamy alternative.

6. Pasta Primavera: A side of fresh, veggie-packed pasta primavera can be a great addition for a colorful and nutritious complement to the shrimp.

7. Lemon Risotto: For a luxurious and elegant side dish, creamy lemon risotto pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy notes in the Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi, creating a refined and well-balanced dining experience.

8. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant can add a smoky flavor to balance out the richness of the shrimp scampi.

9. Fried Zucchini: For something indulgent, crispy fried zucchini sticks are a great side dish. The crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the tender shrimp.

10. White Wine Pairing: To elevate your Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe, serve it with a chilled glass of white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines offer bright acidity and citrusy notes that perfectly complement the buttery garlic shrimp and zesty lemon sauce, enhancing every bite of this elegant seafood pasta dish.

Tips for Making the Best Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

Making the perfect Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is all about balancing flavors and getting the right textures. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish comes out restaurant-quality every time:

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best taste and texture, always use fresh shrimp if possible. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Aim to cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done.

3. Use Unsalted Butter: The butter is a key ingredient in the sauce, so using unsalted butter gives you more control over the seasoning. You can always adjust the salt level to your taste at the end.

4. Don’t Skip the White Wine: The white wine brings a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the butter and garlic. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute, but wine adds a unique depth of flavor.

5. Add Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of freshness, try adding a bit of lemon zest along with the lemon juice. It adds an aromatic citrus flavor that enhances the overall dish.

6. Reserve Pasta Water: If your sauce feels too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The starchy water will help the sauce adhere better to the pasta.

7. Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the dish. Sprinkle a generous amount of chopped parsley over the finished dish for a pop of freshness.

8. Toss the Pasta in the Sauce: After adding the cooked pasta to the sauce, make sure to toss it well so that every strand is coated in the rich, garlicky sauce. This ensures that the flavors are well-distributed.

9. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer your shrimp scampi with a little heat, feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce as it simmers.

10. Serve Immediately: Shrimp scampi is best served fresh, as the shrimp can become tough if left sitting in the sauce too long. Serve the dish immediately for the most flavorful and tender results.

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Variations

While the classic Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to put your spin on the dish. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or just want to try something new, here are some variations to consider:

1. Shrimp Scampi with Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter, low-carb version, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles (also known as zoodles). The fresh, slightly crunchy texture of zucchini noodles pairs beautifully with the creamy shrimp scampi sauce.

2. Spicy Shrimp Scampi: If you love a bit of heat, you can increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This adds a spicy kick that complements the garlic butter base.

3. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi: For an extra burst of citrus, try adding more lemon zest and juice. This version brings a tangier flavor that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and balances the richness of the butter.

4. Shrimp and Scallops Scampi: For a seafood lover’s dream, mix in some fresh scallops along with the shrimp. The sweet, delicate flavor of scallops complements the shrimp perfectly, making this dish even more luxurious.

5. Shrimp Scampi with Asparagus: Add some fresh asparagus to the dish for extra color and flavor. The earthy taste of the asparagus balances the richness of the shrimp scampi sauce, making it a wonderful addition.

6. Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Scampi: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the shrimp scampi just before serving. It melts beautifully into the sauce, adding extra creaminess and flavor.

7. Creamy Shrimp Scampi: If you prefer a richer, creamier version of shrimp scampi, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the wine. This turns the sauce into a luscious cream sauce, perfect for pasta.

8. Shrimp Scampi with Tomatoes: Add some diced fresh tomatoes to the sauce for a burst of sweetness and color. The tomatoes will soften in the sauce, adding depth of flavor and freshness to the dish.

9. Shrimp Scampi with Spinach: For a healthy, veggie-packed variation, toss some fresh spinach into the sauce after the shrimp is cooked. The spinach wilts into the sauce, adding a touch of green and a slightly earthy flavor.

10. Shrimp Scampi with Pappardelle: Instead of angel hair, try using pappardelle—wide, flat noodles that catch the rich sauce and give the dish a more rustic feel. This variation is perfect for a hearty, filling meal.

How to Store Leftover Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe

1. Cool Down: Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing.

2. Airtight Container: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

3. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

1. Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or olive oil. Add water or pasta water if the sauce thickens.

2. Microwave: Cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 30-second intervals on medium power, stirring in between.

FAQs on Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi is a light, flavorful pasta dish made with sautéed shrimp, garlic, white wine, and butter, tossed with angel hair pasta. Here are some quick answers to common questions to help you make it perfectly at home.

What is in the shrimp scampi at Olive Garden?

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is made with shrimp, garlic, butter, white wine, lemon juice, and parsley, served over pasta. It’s a rich and savory dish with a hint of tang from the lemon and wine that perfectly complements the shrimp.

What is the sauce of shrimp scampi made of?

The sauce is typically made from garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon juice. These ingredients combine to create a creamy, tangy sauce that enhances the flavors of the shrimp and pasta.

Why is the dish called shrimp scampi?

The name scampi originally referred to a type of small lobster found in European waters. In Italian cuisine, scampi is a dish made with shrimp cooked in garlic and butter. Over time, the term has been adopted in the U.S. to refer to shrimp cooked in the same manner.

Why is shrimp scampi so good?

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is delicious because of the balance of rich butter, savory garlic, acidic lemon, and dry white wine. This combination enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

Is Olive Garden shrimp scampi healthy?

While Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is undeniably tasty, it can be a bit indulgent due to its butter and wine base. For a healthier version, you can use less butter, substitute olive oil, or pair the dish with light sides like vegetables or zucchini noodles.

What is inside a scampi?

The term scampi refers to a type of small lobster-like shellfish found in European waters. In the U.S., the name has been associated with shrimp dishes due to similar preparation methods, such as being cooked in garlic butter.

What can I substitute for white wine in shrimp scampi?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth, or even white grape juice for a hint of sweetness and acidity. Lemon juice can also add the necessary acidity to the sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just as well as fresh shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture that could affect the sauce.

Is shrimp scampi healthy to eat?

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi can be a bit heavy due to the butter and wine, but it’s also high in protein and low in fat if you make modifications. You can make it healthier by using less butter or replacing it with olive oil and adding more vegetables.

Is Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?

The shrimp and sauce in Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi are naturally gluten-free, but the pasta is not. You can make the dish gluten-free by swapping the pasta for gluten-free noodles, which will make the whole meal safe for those avoiding gluten.

Conclusion

Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or looking to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal, Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi is a perfect choice. With its savory garlic butter sauce, tender shrimp, and a hint of tangy lemon, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s simple to make, customizable, and can easily be paired with a variety of sides to suit your taste. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something delicious and satisfying, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

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