Discover my easy copycat recipe for Olive Garden shrimp scampi that tastes just like the restaurant version. Made with garlic, vegetable broth, and perfectly cooked shrimp.
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Can you imagine making Olive Garden shrimp scampi at home? This easy recipe lets you do just that! It combines garlic, butter, and simple seasonings for a seafood pasta dish that tastes like a restaurant. It’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Whether you want a real Italian meal or a fast dinner, this recipe will wow you. It’s perfect for any time you need a delicious dish.
Key Takeaways
- Recreate the iconic Olive Garden shrimp scampi at home with this easy recipe
- Prepare a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes
- Combine garlic, butter, and seasonings for a flavorful seafood pasta dish
- Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress your guests
- A flexible recipe that can be customized to fit your dietary preferences
Why This Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe Is Special
If you love the olive garden menu, you’ll adore this copycat restaurant reviews recipe. It’s a perfect mix of succulent shrimp, crisp asparagus, and juicy tomatoes in a creamy garlic sauce. This recipe is a delightful balance of indulgence and freshness.
This copycat recipes recipe is easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes. It impresses with its restaurant-quality taste and presentation.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Recipe Rating | 4.13 out of 5 stars (173 votes) |
| Serving Size | 4 servings |
| Calories per Serving | 677 kcal |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
The recipe uses fresh and flavorful ingredients. It includes 8 oz of angel hair pasta, 1 lb of medium raw shrimp, and 3-5 cloves of garlic. It also has 20 cherry tomatoes and a bunch of trimmed and sliced asparagus.
The dish is enhanced with Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons of chopped parsley. This adds to its flavor and presentation.
Looking to recreate the olive garden menu at home? Or craving a delicious Italian-inspired meal? This Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi recipe will delight your taste buds. It makes you feel like a culinary pro.
Essential Ingredients for Restaurant-Quality Results
To get the same delicious taste as your favorite Italian restaurant’s shrimp scampi, use top-notch, fresh ingredients. The main parts of this olive garden shrimp scampi ingredients recipe are large shrimp, angel hair pasta, butter, olive oil, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. You also need vegetable broth, asparagus, tomatoes, lemon juice, heavy whipping cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Fresh vs Frozen Shrimp Options
Choosing fresh shrimp is best for the best seafood dishes. But, you can use frozen shrimp if you thaw it right. For the best taste and texture, pick large shrimp, like 16/20 or 21/25 per pound. Smaller shrimp cook too fast and can get tough.
Best Pasta Choices
Angel hair pasta is the top pick for italian restaurants‘ shrimp scampi. But, you can also use linguine or spaghetti. The thin pasta lets the sauce’s flavor and the shrimp’s tenderness stand out.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large Shrimp (16/20 per pound) | 1 pound |
| Angel Hair Pasta | 8 ounces |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Chicken Broth | 1/2 cup |
| Asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 bunch |
| Cherry Tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect Olive Garden shrimp scampi, you need some key tools. These items make cooking easier and help you get great results.
You’ll first need a big skillet or sauté pan for cooking the shrimp and veggies. A 12-inch or 14-inch pan with high sides is best to avoid splatters. Also, a pasta pot is needed to boil the noodles just right.
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pasta pot
- Pasta bowls for serving
- Silicone tongs for handling the pasta and shrimp
- Sharp knife for preparing vegetables
- Cheese grater for Parmesan
| Kitchen Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet or sauté pan | Cooking the shrimp and vegetables |
| Pasta pot | Boiling the pasta |
| Pasta bowls | Serving the finished dish |
| Silicone tongs | Handling the pasta and shrimp |
| Sharp knife | Preparing vegetables |
| Cheese grater | Grating Parmesan cheese |
Having these kitchen tools and cooking equipment ready will make cooking this Olive Garden shrimp scampi easy and efficient.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making shrimp scampi pasta is simple. Follow these steps to make a meal like a restaurant at home.
Preparing the Pasta
Begin by boiling a big pot of salted water. Cook 1 pound of thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta until it’s al dente. Then, drain it and keep 1 cup of the water for later.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a big skillet, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 6 cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook the garlic until it smells good, about 1-2 minutes, without burning it.
Then, add 2 cups of dry chicken broth to the pan. Let it simmer until it’s half gone, about 5-7 minutes. This makes the garlic butter sauce rich and flavorful.
Cooking the Shrimp and Vegetables
Now, add 1 pound of uncooked jumbo shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until they start to turn pink, about 2-3 minutes. Move the shrimp to a plate and set them aside.
In the same skillet, add 1 cup of fresh asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces, and the juice of half a lemon. Cook the asparagus until it’s tender, about 3-4 minutes.
Then, put the shrimp back in the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and 1 cup of diced Roma tomatoes. Toss everything together. Add a bit of the pasta water to get the right sauce consistency for the shrimp scampi pasta.
This whole process takes about 20-25 minutes. You’ll end up with a tasty Olive Garden-style shrimp scampi pasta dish.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce
The secret to a delicious shrimp scampi dish is the garlic butter sauce. To get it just right at home, follow these tips.
First, use fresh minced garlic, not jarred or powdered. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Cook it until it’s fragrant and slightly brown.
Make sure to reduce the chicken broth by half to intensify the flavors. Adding pasta water helps the sauce become smooth. A bit of heavy cream makes it richer, and lemon juice adds a fresh touch.
Keep tasting the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. With these tips, you’ll make a shrimp scampi garlic butter sauce just like Olive Garden’s.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 pound (8 tablespoons) |
| Minced garlic | 2 Tablespoons |
| Vegetable broth | 1 cup |
| Chicken stock | 1 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 Tablespoons |
| Dried parsley | 1 Tablespoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Heavy cream | 2 Tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
How to Choose and Prepare Fresh Asparagus
Choosing the right fresh asparagus is key for the perfect Olive Garden-inspired shrimp scampi. Thin asparagus spears are best. They cook quickly and evenly, letting the dish’s flavors shine.
Trimming and Cutting Techniques
To prepare the asparagus, start by snapping off the woody ends. Gently bend the spear until it breaks naturally. This marks the tough part from the tender, edible part.
Once the ends are removed, cut the spears into 2-3 inch pieces. This makes them bite-sized and cooks them in the short simmering time.
Cooking Time Guidelines
Cooked asparagus should be bright green and slightly crunchy. Don’t overcook it. The asparagus in this recipe should simmer for only 2-3 minutes until it’s crisp-tender.
Remember, the asparagus will keep cooking a bit after it’s removed from the heat. So, it’s better to undercook it a bit to avoid mushiness.
By following these tips for selecting and preparing fresh asparagus, you’ll make a top-notch Olive Garden shrimp scampi at home. Enjoy the bright, tender-crisp asparagus with the rich, garlicky shrimp and sauce.
Pairing Suggestions and Side Dishes
When you serve homemade olive garden menu shrimp scampi, the right sides make it even better. You can choose from classic olive garden menu breadsticks to fresh salads and roasted veggies. These options all add to the rich, buttery taste of this italian cuisine favorite.
For a real olive garden menu feel, start with warm, fresh olive garden menu breadsticks. Their softness and garlic-herb flavor are perfect with the shrimp scampi. A tangy italian cuisine dressing on a simple side salad also helps balance the dish.
For a low-carb diet, try the shrimp scampi with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Tossed in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a tangy, crispy accompaniment. |
| Sautéed Green Beans | Quickly sautéed with garlic. |
| Creamed Spinach | A rich, creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with the shrimp scampi. |
| Roasted Potatoes | Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these potatoes make a hearty side. |
Choosing the right sides is key. They should match the flavors of the olive garden menu shrimp scampi. This makes the italian cuisine meal even more enjoyable.
Time-Saving Prep Tips and Tricks
Making a tasty Olive Garden shrimp scampi doesn’t have to take long. A few meal prep and time-saving cooking tricks can make it quick. Here are some tips to make cooking easier.
Make-Ahead Options
Starting early can save a lot of time. Here are some make-ahead ideas:
- Buy pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to avoid the hassle.
- Chop your veggies a day or two before and store them in the fridge.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Reheat it gently before adding the shrimp and pasta.
Quick Assembly Tips
When it’s time to cook, having everything ready can make a big difference. This mise en place method makes cooking smooth and fast.
- Measure the shrimp, pasta, and seasonings before you start.
- Chop the garlic, onion, and asparagus in advance.
- Have the pre-made garlic butter sauce ready to add at the right time.
By following these time-saving cooking tips, you can have a tasty Olive Garden shrimp scampi in under 30 minutes. Enjoy the ease of quick meals without losing flavor or quality.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
This Olive Garden-inspired shrimp scampi recipe is very versatile. You can change it to fit different diets or try new flavors. Let’s look at some tasty ways to make your shrimp scampi special.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options
- For a gluten-free version, use zucchini noodles or rice-based pasta instead of traditional pasta.
- To make it dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cream. This makes a yummy garlic sauce.
Protein Alternatives
Don’t like shrimp? No worries! You can change the recipe to use other proteins:
- Try chicken breasts for a tasty chicken scampi.
- For a vegetarian option, add more sautéed veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms instead of shrimp.
Spice It Up
Want more heat in your shrimp scampi? Just add more red pepper flakes.
Herbal Enhancements
Try different fresh herbs to make your shrimp scampi even better. Add basil, oregano, or your favorite herbs for a unique flavor.
With these changes, you can make shrimp scampi for anyone. It’s perfect for your taste buds.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Enjoying the delectable flavors of this Olive Garden-inspired shrimp scampi doesn’t have to end with the first serving. You can savor the leftovers for up to 3 days with proper storage and reheating. Here’s how to keep your shrimp scampi fresh and flavorful:
To store the leftover shrimp scampi, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored this way. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, there’s no need to worry about the shrimp becoming rubbery or overcooked.
To reheat the shrimp scampi, add a splash of water or chicken broth to the container. This will help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Gently warm the shrimp scampi on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the shrimp tough and chewy.
For the best flavor and texture, try to consume the leftover shrimp scampi within 1-2 days. This will ensure that the shrimp remains tender, the sauce retains its creamy consistency, and the overall dish maintains its restaurant-quality taste. With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your homemade Olive Garden shrimp scampi for days to come!
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
This homemade Olive Garden shrimp scampi recipe has a lot of calories. It has about 677 calories, 53 grams of carbs, 37.2 grams of protein, and 33.7 grams of fat. Knowing this helps you understand its nutritional value.
Calorie Content
If you’re watching your calories, this dish might be too high. But, you can make it lower in calories by using less butter and choose whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta. This way, you can eat less without losing flavor.
Dietary Modifications
- To make it keto-friendly, use zucchini noodles instead of pasta. This cuts down carbs a lot.
- For less salt, use less salt and unsalted butter. This makes it lower in sodium.
- Vegetarians and vegans can skip the shrimp. Use tofu or chickpeas as a protein substitute.
Knowing the nutritional facts and making changes can help. You can enjoy the taste of this Olive Garden shrimp scampi recipe.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
When serving your homemade Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi, aim for a top-notch dining experience. Focus on the details that make the presentation pop. This will enhance your guests’ dining experience.
Start by placing the shrimp scampi in large pasta bowls. This gives it an authentic Italian trattoria vibe. Add fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges for color and flavor. Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to add as they like.
For a fancy look, use wide-rimmed plates. Twirl the pasta into a neat mound. Place the shrimp and veggies artfully on top. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds spice and interest.
Choose your serving style wisely. The goal is to impress with food presentation and create an elevated dining experience. With a bit of care, your homemade dish will shine like a restaurant favorite.
Conclusion
This homemade Olive Garden shrimp scampi recipe is a tasty and budget-friendly way to enjoy a favorite dish at home. It combines garlic, butter, and fresh ingredients perfectly.
It’s great for a quick dinner or a special meal. The recipe is easy to follow and makes food that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
By making this seafood pasta dish, you can have a dine-in experience without spending a lot. The Shrimp Scampi, a hit at Olive Garden, is now in your kitchen. It brings the same great taste as Olive Garden’s Shrimp Alfredo and Herb-Grilled Salmon, but costs less.
So, if you want a tasty olive garden entree or a seafood pasta dish, try this shrimp scampi recipe. Enjoy Olive Garden flavors at home and make memories with your family.