Creamy, garlicky, and restaurant-worthy—no reservation required!
Introduction
Picture this: plump shrimp bathed in a buttery garlic sauce, tangled with al dente pasta, and finished with a zesty lemon kick. That’s Olive Garden’s legendary Shrimp Scampi—a dish so good, it’s inspired countless cravings. But what if you could skip the wait for a table and whip up this iconic meal in your own kitchen? Even better—what if it took just 30 minutes?
Here’s the secret: Olive Garden’s magic isn’t locked behind their kitchen doors. With a few pantry staples and my foolproof copycat recipe, you’ll savor that same rich, garlicky flavor without changing out of your pajamas. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, impressing date-night guests, or satisfying a sudden seafood craving. Think of it as the cousin of my viral 30-Minute Garlic Parmesan Pasta—but with a briny, buttery twist that’ll make you feel like a gourmet chef. Ready to cook like a pro? Let’s dive in!
What is Shrimp Scampi Olive Garden?
Is it shrimp? Is it scampi? Why does it sound like a fancy Italian opera? Let’s decode the name: “Scampi” technically refers to langoustines (tiny lobsters), but Olive Garden’s version uses juicy shrimp swimming in a garlic butter sauce. It’s like calling your cat “Tiger”—a playful exaggeration that just works.
Fun fact: The dish’s name might be a bit cheeky, but its flavor is dead serious. Legend says the aroma alone could make a stranger propose (hey, “the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach” isn’t just a saying!). Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, this recipe is your ticket to feeling like you’ve cracked Olive Garden’s secret code. Ready to become a kitchen hero? Let’s get sautéing!
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Scampi Olive Garden
Restaurant Flavor, No Fuss: The star here is the garlic butter sauce—rich, velvety, and packed with lemon zest. It clings to every noodle like it’s auditioning for a food commercial.
Cheaper Than Takeout: For the price of one Olive Garden order, you can feed four people. Plus, leftovers taste even better (if they last that long).
Customizable Toppings: Sprinkle with parsley, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan. It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure book, but tastier.
Love my Cajun Shrimp Alfredo? This recipe is its lighter, zestier cousin. Both are weeknight lifesavers, but this one’s got that garlic-forward punch you’ll obsess over. Ready to make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria? Let’s go!
How to Make Shrimp Scampi Olive Garden
Quick Overview
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins
Key Features: Garlic butter sauce, tender shrimp, and a lemon twist.
Key Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined)
8 oz linguine (or fettuccine)
4 tbsp butter
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
1 lemon (zest + 2 tbsp juice)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt, pepper, and parsley to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Boil the Pasta: Cook linguine al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Sizzle the Shrimp: Melt butter in a skillet. Add shrimp, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2-3 mins per side until pink. Remove shrimp.
Build the Sauce: In the same pan, add wine, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer 3 mins.
Combine: Toss pasta and shrimp in the sauce. Add pasta water as needed for silkiness.
Garnish: Sprinkle parsley, Parmesan, or extra pepper flakes. Serve immediately!
What to Serve With Shrimp Scampi Olive Garden
Garlic Bread: For mopping up every drop of sauce.
Caesar Salad: Balance richness with crisp greens.
Roasted Asparagus: A light, veggie-friendly side.
White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Shrimp Scampi Olive Garden
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: They turn rubbery fast! Remove them as soon as they curl.
Use Fresh Lemon: Bottled juice can’t match the brightness of fresh zest.
Adjust Garlic: Add an extra clove (or three) if you’re a vampire-fighting enthusiast.
Gluten-Free? Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or gluten-free linguine.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
Freeze: Portion into freezer bags (up to 1 month). Thaw overnight.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving—shrimp gets tough!
Hungry for More? Try my Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon next—it’s another 30-minute wonder!