The sizzle of shrimp dancing in a garlic-butter sauce is a sound that brings warmth to my kitchen, instantly transporting me to an Italian bistro. You know that moment when the aroma of a beloved dish fills the air, making your mouth water and your heart flutter? That’s exactly what happens when I whip up this Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi. In just 30 minutes, you can indulge in succulent shrimp nestled on a cloud of angel hair pasta, all drizzled in a silky sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
This recipe not only captures the restaurant-quality essence of a true classic but does so with an ease that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Imagine treating yourself and your loved ones to an elegant main dish without the fuss. Whether you’re aiming to impress, seeking comfort food, or simply looking for a break from the fast-food grind, this delightful dish has got you covered. Let’s dive into the details and create your own little piece of Italy right at home!
Why is Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Enjoy the taste of the Olive Garden in the comfort of your home, ensuring that every bite is a savory delight.
Affordable Ingredients: Using simple, readily available components means you can achieve gourmet results without breaking the bank.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level, ensuring this dish perfectly suits your palate.
Impressive Presentation: Serve this up to guests and watch as they marvel at your culinary skills, even if it was a breeze to prepare.
For more delightful ideas to impress, check out our guide on elevating simple dinners.
Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Angel Hair Pasta – This delicate pasta is perfect for soaking up the rich garlic-butter sauce and complements the shrimp wonderfully.
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – The star of the dish; plump and juicy shrimp bring a sweet and savory flavor to your plate.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess to the sauce; if you only have salted butter, adjust additional salt in the recipe.
• Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the shrimp, enhancing the dish with rich flavor and healthy fats.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic offers an irresistible aromatic flavor, key to the dish’s essence.
• Dry White Wine – Provides acidity and depth to the sauce; if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute with broth.
• Chicken Broth – This adds a savory richness to your sauce; vegetable broth is a lighter alternative.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors and balances the richness; use fresh juice for the best taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Choose the level of heat you desire; omit for a milder dish or increase for a spicy kick.
• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top, it adds a delicious umami flavor; substitute with Pecorino Romano for a twist.
• Fresh Parsley – A fragrant garnish that adds color and brightness; fresh basil or cilantro can also work beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; taste and adjust to suit your preference.
Indulge in creating your very own Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi, a dish that simply sings with flavor and charm!
How to Make Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi
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Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside, letting the perfect noodles wait for their saucy partner.
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Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in ½ cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Combine: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss lightly to coat everything in that luscious sauce. Heat together for another 1-2 minutes until well combined and hot.
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Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about ¼ cup), and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately for a fresh meal!
Optional: Garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy nights! You can prepare the angel hair pasta and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To do this, cook the pasta until just al dente, drain it, and toss it with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Shrimp can also be marinated with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil up to 24 hours in advance; keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the marinated shrimp and combine it with the prepared pasta and sauce for a quick, delicious meal that’s just as delightful as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi?
Create a delightful dining experience by pairing your shrimp scampi with complementary sides that enhance the flavors of this beloved dish.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, this bread is ideal for soaking up that luscious garlic-butter sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad brings a crisp, tangy contrast to the richness of the shrimp scampi. Tossed with creamy dressing, it’s a classic that never fails to please.
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Sautéed Asparagus: With a vibrant green color and a slight crunch, sautéed asparagus adds a nutritious touch and bright flavor that balances the meal beautifully.
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Lemon-Butter Broccoli: Lightly steamed or sautéed broccoli drizzled with lemon-butter sauce enhances the freshness on your plate, creating a lovely harmony with the shrimp.
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Herb-Infused Rice: A fluffy basil or parsley rice makes a wonderful base to soak up extra sauce, providing a heartier feel without overshadowing the star player.
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Chilled White Wine: Pair with a crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio to elevate the flavors of the shrimp scampi. The wine’s acidity complements the rich sauce beautifully.
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Tiramisu: Finish off your meal with this classic Italian dessert, offering a sweet contrast to the savory shrimp, providing that perfect ending to your Italian feast.
How to Store and Freeze Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi
Fridge: Store leftover Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the shrimp’s tender texture.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze the shrimp scampi (without pasta) for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the scampi overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or wine to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the shrimp and pasta fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your family’s tastes and dietary needs for a truly unforgettable meal!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter for a creamy yet dairy-free dish. The flavors will remain rich and satisfying without sacrificing tradition.
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Pasta Swap: Replace angel hair pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti for a different texture; zucchini noodles also offer a lighter, low-carb twist that doesn’t compromise flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in sautéed asparagus or spinach to enhance nutrition and bring vibrant color; these veggies pair beautifully and add delightful crunch.
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Spicy Kick: For those who like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh sliced jalapeños; just a little extra spice can elevate this dish to new heights of flavor.
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Seafood Variety: Instead of shrimp, try using large scallops or a mix of your favorite seafood like mussels or salmon; each seafood option brings its unique taste and flair to the dish.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or cilantro can significantly alter the flavor profile—experiment with these herbs for a refreshing twist that complements the dish’s richness.
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Creamy Addition: For a luscious variation, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce just before serving; it will transform your scampi into a creamy dream come true.
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Citrus Twist: Incorporate lime or orange juice in place of lemon juice to brighten the dish with a different yet delightful citrusy zing; this fresh touch will leave your guests craving more.
Expert Tips for Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are cooked just until opaque to avoid rubberiness; they should be tender and juicy for the best experience.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for an aromatic, vibrant flavor in your Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi; dried versions won’t provide the same freshness.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the wine to simmer and reduce to develop flavor depth; this step is crucial for a rich, restaurant-quality sauce.
- Pasta Timing: Cook the angel hair pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce; timing is key!
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level; this allows you to tailor the Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi to your taste.
Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi?
Absolutely! It’s best to use large shrimp for this recipe, as they provide a sweet and savory flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen. Avoid any with dark spots, as this indicates they might not be at their freshest. If you prefer a different seafood profile, scallops can make a delicious substitute.
How do I store leftover Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it to avoid condensation, which can affect the texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the shrimp’s tender texture.
Can I freeze Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi?
Yes, you can freeze Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi! However, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta to avoid it becoming mushy. Store the shrimp scampi in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or wine to revive the sauce’s consistency before serving.
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What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! You can easily fix this by adding a bit of chicken broth or dry white wine as it warms up in the skillet. Start with a tablespoon and stir well until you reach your ideal consistency. This will also refresh the flavors and keep everything moist.
Is Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Unfortunately, that’s a tricky situation! Since shrimp is the main ingredient in Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi, it’s not safe for anyone with shellfish allergies. You could consider using grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables as a substitute instead, but the flavor profile will differ. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding dietary restrictions.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to prepare the shrimp and pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve, as this will ensure the best texture and flavor. Simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove before combining it with the shrimp and pasta.
Delicious Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Made Easy at Home
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and let it simmer until reduced by half (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in ½ cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss lightly to coat everything in that luscious sauce. Heat together for another 1-2 minutes until well combined and hot.
- Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately.
