The Best Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe: A Chef’s Guide

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

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As a chef who has spent years perfecting Italian-American classics, I can tell you that Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi holds a special place in many food lovers’ hearts. I remember the first time I tasted this iconic dish – the perfect balance of garlic, white wine, and tender shrimp coating each strand of angel hair pasta. Today, I’m excited to share my professional insights on recreating this beloved dish in your own kitchen, with all the tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way.

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The Secret Behind Olive Garden’s Signature Shrimp Scampi

What makes Olive Garden’s Shrimp Scampi so irresistible is its rich, buttery sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp. The restaurant has mastered the delicate balance of flavors, creating a dish that’s both luxurious and comforting. While the original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, my version comes incredibly close to the restaurant experience.

How To Make Restaurant-Quality Shrimp Scampi

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

Learn how to make Olive Garden-style Shrimp Scampi with health benefits, pairing tips, and storage advice.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Servings 4 people

Cost $25

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp 16-20 count, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 cloves fresh garlic minced
1 cup dry white wine preferably Pinot Grigio
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

1 pound angel hair pasta
Reserved pasta water
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil
Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions, usually 4-5 minutes
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining
Drain pasta but don’t rinse it

Creating the Perfect Scampi Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat
Add 4 tablespoons of butter and let it melt
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant
Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 3-4 minutes
Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink
Remove shrimp temporarily from the pan

Bringing It All Together

Add cooked pasta to the sauce
Return shrimp to the pan
Add remaining butter and toss everything together
Add pasta water as needed to achieve desired sauce consistency
Season with salt and pepper
Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese

Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Nutrition Information

For those watching their nutrition, here’s what you can expect per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 650
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 185mg
Sodium: 890mg
Total Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 32g

Customization Options and Variations

While the classic recipe is fantastic, here are some ways to make it your own:

Lighter Version:

Reduce butter by half
Use whole wheat pasta
Add more vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes

Spicier Version:

Double the red pepper flakes
Add cayenne pepper
Include fresh sliced jalapeños

Seafood Lover’s Version:

Add scallops
Include mussels
Mix in some calamari

Common FAQs About Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi

What’s the best wine to use for shrimp scampi?

I recommend using Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Always choose a wine you’d enjoy drinking, as the flavors will concentrate in the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and shrimp separately up to a day ahead. Reheat gently and toss with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep the heat at medium and watch it carefully. Burned garlic will make the entire dish bitter.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.

Health Benefits of Shrimp Scampi Ingredients

When prepared thoughtfully, this dish offers several nutritional benefits:

Shrimp provides:

High-quality protein
Omega-3 fatty acids
Selenium and iodine

Garlic offers:

Immune system support
Cardiovascular benefits
Anti-inflammatory properties

Olive oil contains:

Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
Antioxidants
Vitamin E

learn more about Health Benefits of Shrimp

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your Olive Garden-inspired meal, consider serving your shrimp scampi with:

Fresh garden salad with Italian dressing
Warm breadsticks
Roasted vegetables
A glass of the same white wine used in cooking

Storage and Reheating Tips

To maintain quality when storing:

Storage:

Keep in an airtight container
Refrigerate for up to 2 days
Store pasta and sauce separately if possible

Reheating:

Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth
Heat gently on stovetop
Avoid microwave if possible to prevent rubbery shrimp

Conclusion

Creating restaurant-quality Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi at home is absolutely achievable with the right techniques and ingredients. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of garlic, butter, and wine to create a sauce that’s both luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving this classic dish, following these steps will help you create a memorable meal.

Ready to start cooking? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try! Share your results on social media, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next special dinner. The joy of creating restaurant-quality dishes at home is unmatched, and this shrimp scampi recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.