Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe: Easy Restaurant Copy

I love cooking at home and always wanted to make Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi. The mix of shrimp, garlic butter, and herbs reminds me of my favorite Italian-American restaurant. I’m excited to share how I make this dish at home.

Shrimp scampi is a favorite of mine, starting from my first try at Olive Garden. The flavors were amazing, and I wanted more. Now, I aim to make this dish at home, bringing joy to my family.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to make Olive Garden-style shrimp scampi at home. You’ll learn about choosing the right shrimp and making the perfect sauce. Follow my tips to impress your loved ones with a delicious meal.

Why I Love Recreating Olive Garden’s Signature Shrimp Dish

I love cooking at home and trying to make dishes like those from restaurants. Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi has always caught my eye. The first time I had it, the buttery sauce and juicy shrimp amazed me.

My First Experience with This Italian-American Classic

That first bite was unforgettable. The garlic sauce and white wine mixed perfectly with the shrimp. It was a flavor mix that stuck with me.

The Appeal of Making Restaurant Favorites at Home

After trying Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi, I wanted to make it at home. It’s rewarding to cook a dish like this in my kitchen. It saves money and is more convenient than going out.

Now, I can make this dish for my family and friends. They love the real flavors and how it looks. It’s a hit every time.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

To make the famous shrimp scampi from Olive Garden, you need the right ingredients. You’ll need to pick the best shrimp, pasta, and seasonings. Let’s explore the key ingredients for a true Olive Garden taste.

Shrimp Selection

Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best taste. Wild-caught, American shrimp are sweeter and more flavorful than farm-raised ones. Don’t use small or medium shrimp, as they can get tough when cooked.

Pasta of Choice

The top choice for Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi is linguine. Its long shape is perfect for the saucy garlic flavor. But, you can try other pasta like angel hair or fettuccine to see what you like best.

Essential Seasonings

• Freshly minced garlic for that signature Olive Garden flavor
• Lemon juice to brighten and balance the rich, buttery sauce
• Dry white wine or vermouth to deglaze the pan and add depth
• Butter or olive oil to create a silky, glossy sauce
• Parsley, salt, and pepper for seasoning and garnish

With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make an olive garden shrimp scampi recipe that tastes just like the real thing.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

Making a tasty shrimp scampi dish at home is easy. You don’t need a fancy chef’s kitchen. Just a few key tools and some extra help can make your dish taste like Olive Garden’s.

Must-Have Cooking Utensils

• A large skillet or sauté pan: This is where you’ll cook the shrimp and make the shrimp scampi sauce.
• A pasta pot: You’ll need this to boil pasta to go with your shrimp scampi.
• A sharp chef’s knife: It’s great for chopping garlic, parsley, and other herbs quickly.
• A wooden spoon or silicone spatula: These help stir and scrape the pan to avoid burning.

Optional but Helpful Tools

While the basics are enough for a tasty shrimp scampi, some extra tools can make it even better:

1. A garlic press: It makes mincing garlic easy for the best flavor.
2. A citrus juicer: This tool makes getting fresh lemon juice for the sauce simple.
3. A wine opener: It makes opening the white wine for the recipe easy.
4. A set of measuring cups and spoons: They help you get the right mix of ingredients for a true Olive Garden shrimp scampi taste.

With the right tools and equipment, you can make a shrimp scampi dish that’s just as good as Olive Garden’s. And you can do it all in your own kitchen.

Selecting and Preparing the Perfect Shrimp

Creating Olive Garden shrimp scampi at home requires top-notch shrimp. The shrimp is the main attraction, so it’s vital to get it right. Here are my tips for picking and preparing the best shrimp for this dish.

Choosing the Right Shrimp Size and Type

I always choose large or jumbo shrimp, about 16-20 count per pound. This size is perfect for a hearty bite and holds the sauce well. For the best taste, use peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on. This makes the dish look more authentic and adds flavor during cooking.

Properly Thawing and Deveining Frozen Shrimp

• Thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or under cold water for 30 minutes.
• Use a sharp knife to remove the vein along the shrimp’s back. This improves looks and removes grit.
• Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking. This helps them sear and caramelize better.

By following these tips, you’ll make an olive garden shrimp scampi that’s as good as the restaurant’s. Start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. They’ll soak up all the sauce’s flavors beautifully.

The Secret Behind Olive Garden’s Signature Sauce

Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi is famous for its signature sauce. This sauce is a mix of garlic, white wine, and seasonings. It’s rich and buttery, with a flavor that’s amazing.

As a home cook, I’ve worked hard to make this sauce at home. I’m excited to share how to make Olive Garden’s signature sauce.

Key Sauce Components

The sauce for Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi is made from a few key things:

• Butter: This adds a creamy texture and richness.
• Garlic: It gives the sauce a deep flavor.
• White wine: A bit of dry white wine adds a nice acidity.

Proper Seasoning Techniques

Getting the seasoning right is key to making Olive Garden’s sauce. I use fresh parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. By adjusting these, I make a sauce that’s just right for me.

To make the sauce, start with melted butter. Then add garlic, white wine, and seasonings slowly. This lets the flavors mix well. Being patient and careful is important to get the sauce just right.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Learning to make olive garden shrimp scampi at home is a fun cooking journey. These detailed steps will help you make the dish just like the restaurant.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the pasta. While waiting, peel and devein the shrimp. Keep the tails on for a nice look.

1. In a big skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until it smells good, about 1 minute.
2. Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re white and curled.
3. After cooking the shrimp, take them out and set them aside. Add white wine, lemon juice, and parsley to the skillet. Scrape the bottom for any tasty bits.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then, put the shrimp back in the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce.
5. Cook the pasta as the package says until it’s al dente. Drain it and put it in a bowl.
6. Put the shrimp scampi and sauce on top of the pasta. Add more parsley, lemon wedges, and Parmesan cheese if you like.

By following these simple steps, you can make a delicious olive garden shrimp scampi dish at home. Serve it hot and enjoy the tasty flavors of this Italian-American classic.

Wine Pairing Recommendations for Shrimp Scampi

Choosing the right wine for Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi can be fun. There are many wines that can make your meal better. As someone who loves cooking, I’ve tried different wines to find the best match.

Best White Wines for Cooking

The sauce in shrimp scampi is key, and the wine used can change its taste. I’ve found that crisp, unoaked white wines are best. They let the seafood and garlic shine without getting lost.

Here are some wines I often use:

• Sauvignon Blanc: It’s refreshing with citrus and herbs that go well with shrimp scampi.
• Pinot Grigio: A light Italian white that adds a nice acidity to the dish.
• Chardonnay: A creamy white that adds a bit of complexity to the sauce.

Serving Wine Suggestions

For serving wine with shrimp scampi, I choose a light white wine. It should enhance the dish without overpowering it. Here are some good choices:

1. Albariño: A crisp Spanish white that pairs well with seafood.
2. Vinho Verde: A refreshing Portuguese white with a bit of fizz that cuts through the scampi’s richness.
3. Unoaked Chardonnay: A light Chardonnay that lets the shrimp and garlic take center stage.

The secret to pairing wine with shrimp scampi is to pick a white that complements it. By following these tips, you can make your shrimp scampi taste like it’s from Olive Garden. Enjoy a great meal at home.

Pasta Selection and Preparation Tips

Choosing the right pasta is key to making a great Olive Garden-inspired shrimp scampi. This dish is all about balance. You want the succulent shrimp and the delicate pasta to work together perfectly.

For shrimp scampi, thin, long noodles like linguine or spaghetti are best. They let the sauce cling to every strand. This makes each bite full of flavor.

1. For a heartier dish, try fettuccine or angel hair pasta. These thicker noodles can handle the bold flavors of the olive garden shrimp scampi dish.
2. Make sure to salt the boiling water well. This step boosts the pasta’s flavor and helps it cook just right.
3. Cook the pasta just as the shrimp scampi sauce is done. This way, the noodles are hot and ready to soak up all the flavors.

Pasta Shape	Recommended for Shrimp Scampi	Texture and Sauce Retention
Linguine	✓	Thin, long noodles that hold sauce well
Spaghetti	✓	Thin, long noodles that hold sauce well
Fettuccine	✓	Thicker noodles provide a heartier base
Angel Hair	✓	Delicate, thin noodles that capture sauce

By picking the right pasta and following these tips, you can make a delicious olive garden shrimp scampi at home. You’ll get tender shrimp, silky sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a taste of Italy in your kitchen.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Being health-conscious, I always check the nutrition of my food. Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi is no exception. Let’s look at the calories and how to make it fit different diets.

Calorie Breakdown

A serving of Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi has about 730 calories. This includes the shrimp, garlic butter sauce, and pasta. It’s tasty but might be too high for those watching their calories.

But, making it at home can cut down calories. By controlling the shrimp, butter, and pasta, you can get it to 400-500 calories. This makes it a better choice for those counting calories.

Possible Dietary Modifications

• Try it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for fewer carbs.
• Use plant-based butter or olive oil to lower fat and calories.
• Swap shrimp for chicken or white fish if you have allergies or don’t like shrimp.
• Vegetarians and vegans can use grilled portobello mushrooms or chickpeas instead of shrimp.

With these tweaks, you can enjoy the taste of Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi while meeting your dietary needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Shrimp Scampi

I love cooking at home and making dishes like Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi. To make it just right, you need to watch a few important details. I’ve found a few common mistakes that can mess up this tasty Italian-American dish. Let’s look at these mistakes and find ways to make your shrimp scampi taste like it’s from a restaurant.

Overcooking the Shrimp

One big mistake is overcooking the shrimp. When they’re overcooked, they get tough and lose their flavor. To get them just right, keep an eye on them. Take them out of the heat when they’re pink and slightly curled.

Using Too Much Garlic

Garlic is important in shrimp scampi, but too much can overpower the dish. Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi recipe gets it just right. Start with a small amount of garlic and add more if you like.

Overcrowding the Pan

Another mistake is cooking too many shrimp at once. This can make them cook unevenly and lose that nice Olive Garden sear. Cook in batches if you need to, so each shrimp has room to cook well.

Forgetting the Lemon

Lemon is key in shrimp scampi, adding a fresh and tangy touch. Don’t skip adding a good squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end. It makes all the flavors come together beautifully.

By avoiding these mistakes and using the tips from Olive Garden chefs, you can make a shrimp scampi dish that’s just as good as the restaurant’s. Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp scampi!

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Improving how your homemade shrimp scampi looks can change your meal. Focus on how you plate and garnish it. This can make your dish look like it’s from Olive Garden, right in your kitchen.

Garnishing Tips

A simple garnish can make a big difference. Try adding fresh parsley or chives on top. They add color and a fresh smell. For more elegance, use thin lemon wedges or lemon zest.

Plating Techniques

Think about making your shrimp scampi look good on the plate. Place the shrimp and pasta in a circle or spiral. This lets the sauce flow down the sides.

Adding shrimp scampi with Olive Garden’s breadsticks or a salad makes it complete. The goal is to make it look as good as Olive Garden’s.

“Presentation is everything when it comes to creating a restaurant-quality shrimp scampi at home. Pay attention to the details, and your dish will look like it came straight from the Olive Garden kitchen.”

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Enjoying Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi at home is a treat. But what about leftovers? It’s important to store and reheat them right to keep the taste and texture great.

Storing Leftover Shrimp Scampi

To keep your shrimp scampi fresh, follow these steps:

• Put leftover shrimp scampi in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking.
• It can stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freeze it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Shrimp Scampi

Here’s how to reheat your shrimp scampi to taste like it’s just from the restaurant:

1. Stovetop Reheat: Heat it in a skillet over medium, stirring often, for 5-7 minutes.
2. Oven Reheat: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Put it in an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
3. Microwave Reheat: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval, until warm.

Don’t overcook the shrimp when reheating. It can make them tough. Enjoy your Olive Garden shrimp scampi leftovers!

Variations on the Classic Recipe

The traditional Olive Garden shrimp scampi is a hit, but it’s even better when you add your own twist. Let’s look at some creative ways to make this dish your own. You can change it up to fit your taste or dietary needs.

Spicy Alternative

Want a bit of heat? Try a spicy version of Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi. Just add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the sauce. This adds a thrilling kick that contrasts nicely with the garlic and lemon.

Low-Carb Options

Following a low-carb diet? You can enjoy shrimp scampi without the pasta. Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice are great substitutes. They offer a similar feel to pasta but with fewer carbs.

“The beauty of shrimp scampi lies in its versatility. With a few simple tweaks, you can create a dish that perfectly suits your taste buds and dietary preferences.”

Whether you like a spicy kick or a low-carb version, these changes let you make the dish your own. Try different variations to find the one that excites your taste buds the most.

Cost Comparison: Homemade vs. Restaurant Version

I love cooking at home and enjoying Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi. I’ve always wondered if making it myself is cheaper than buying it at the restaurant. After doing some math, I’m happy to share my results with you.

First, let’s look at what you need for homemade shrimp scampi:

• Shrimp (1 lb.)
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• White wine
• Parsley
• Salt and pepper

Buying these ingredients at a local store costs about $20-25. Now, let’s see how that compares to Olive Garden’s prices. Their shrimp scampi costs between $22.99 and $27.99 per entree.

Making it at home saves you $2-7 per serving. You also get to use fresh ingredients and make it just the way you like it. Plus, you can control how much you make.

“Making shrimp scampi at home is a smart choice. You save money and enjoy a tasty meal.”

Keep in mind, making it at home takes time and effort. But with the easy steps in this article, you’ll make it like a pro in no time.

If you love Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi and want to save money, try making it yourself. It’s cheaper and just as tasty, if not better.

Expert Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results

I’ve spent hours perfecting my Olive Garden shrimp scampi recipe. The key to great flavor is in the details. From choosing fresh shrimp to getting the sauce just right, every step matters.

Start with high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the sauce. It adds richness and depth. Also, season the shrimp well with garlic, lemon, and herbs. This makes the dish come alive.

Watch the cooking time closely. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Remove them when they’re just opaque and slightly curled. Experiment with the sauce’s thickness for that restaurant feel at home.

FAQ

What is Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi?

Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi is a tasty Italian-American dish. It has sautéed shrimp in a buttery, garlicky white wine sauce. It’s often served over linguine or angel hair pasta.

How can I make Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi at home?

To make Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi at home, you need a few ingredients. You’ll need large shrimp, butter, garlic, white wine, and lemon juice. It also needs the right timing and techniques to get the rich, flavorful sauce.

What are the nutritional facts for Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi?

Olive Garden’s shrimp scampi has about 1,080 calories per serving. It has a lot of fat and cholesterol from the butter and cream. You can make a healthier version at home by using less butter and cream.

What type of wine should I use for shrimp scampi?

For the best taste, use a dry, crisp white wine. Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay work well. The wine balances the richness of the butter and garlic.

How do I properly prepare the shrimp for shrimp scampi?

Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for shrimp scampi. Make sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. Pat them dry to help them sear well in the pan.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making shrimp scampi?

Avoid overcooking the shrimp and using too much garlic. Also, make sure to reduce the sauce enough. It’s key to cook the pasta and shrimp at the same time for a hot dish.

Can I make shrimp scampi ahead of time?

Yes, you can make shrimp scampi ahead of time. Store the cooked shrimp and sauce separately from the pasta. Reheat the shrimp and sauce, and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve. This keeps the pasta from getting too soft.