Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe: Craving that restaurant-quality shrimp scampi from Olive Garden without leaving the comfort of your kitchen? You’re in the right place!
This step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly how to recreate that creamy, garlicky, lemony goodness at home. We’re talking about buttery sautéed shrimp, angel hair pasta, fresh veggies, and a sauce that will have you licking the plate (no judgment!).
This recipe isn’t just delicious — it’s surprisingly easy to make too.
Why We Love Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi
What’s not to love? This dish is the perfect combo of indulgent and fresh. You’ve got tender shrimp, just the right hint of garlic and citrus, and perfectly cooked pasta that soaks up all the flavor. It’s a balance of lightness and richness — great for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner for two. And let’s be honest, recreating your favorite restaurant meals at home feels kind of magical, right?
What Makes This Shrimp Scampi Unique?
Olive Garden adds a colorful twist to traditional shrimp scampi by including bell peppers, red onions, and a splash of white wine in the sauce. It’s not just garlic and butter — it’s a flavor bomb. The key is in the layering: sautéed aromatics, seasoned shrimp, and pasta tossed in a light lemon butter sauce that’s both bright and comforting. With our step-by-step method, you’ll get every flavor note just right.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this Olive Garden-style shrimp scampi at home. Keep in mind, fresh is best — especially when it comes to shrimp and vegetables.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1/2 red onion (sliced)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese (for topping)
Optional Add-ons
- Zucchini (for extra veggies)
- Spinach (add a handful at the end)
- Capers (for a briny bite)
- Heavy cream (for a creamier sauce)
Tools and Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium saucepan for boiling pasta
- Tongs or pasta spoon
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Garlic press (optional but handy)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking this dish is all about timing and temperature — and these tools help you stay in control every step of the way.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat them dry. Mince garlic, chop fresh parsley, and measure out butter, olive oil, white wine (or broth), lemon juice, and seasonings. Having everything ready makes cooking fast and smooth.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add angel hair or spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and a little butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside to avoid overcooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add more butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in white wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping the pan to release flavor. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss gently to coat in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and make it silky.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and garlic bread on the side for a restaurant-style finish.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – As soon as they turn pink and opaque, take them out. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery real fast.
- Use dry white wine – Something like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works perfectly. Avoid sweet wines — they change the flavor balance.
- Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference – Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t cut it here.
- Cook pasta al dente – It finishes cooking in the sauce, so don’t overdo it in the water.
- Use high-quality butter – Since the butter is a main flavor, good quality makes a noticeable difference.
These small touches really elevate your dish from good to restaurant-level great.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe like shrimp scampi can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Crowding the pan with shrimp – This steams them instead of giving them a nice sear.
- Using too much lemon juice – Balance is everything. Too much can overpower the butter and garlic.
- Skipping the pasta water – A splash helps the sauce cling to the pasta beautifully.
- Burning the garlic – Garlic burns in seconds. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly when it hits the pan.
- Using precooked shrimp – It’s tempting, but they can become dry and tasteless quickly when reheated.
Avoiding these mistakes ensures that your shrimp scampi comes out silky, savory, and seriously satisfying every single time.
How to Choose the Best Shrimp
For the ultimate flavor and texture, use fresh or flash-frozen shrimp. Here’s what to keep in mind when picking the best:
- Size matters – Go for large (31/40 count per pound) or jumbo shrimp. They’re meaty and stand out in the dish.
- Shell-on vs. peeled – Shell-on shrimp offer more flavor but require extra prep. If you’re short on time, go for peeled and deveined.
- Wild-caught vs. farm-raised – Wild-caught usually has better flavor and texture, but sustainable farm-raised shrimp are a great alternative.
- Smell test – Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy or sour.
If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them slowly in the fridge or under cold running water — never microwave.
Making It Spicy: Optional Variations
Love a bit of heat? Want to change things up a little? Here are a few spicy and flavorful variations of this shrimp scampi:
- Add more red pepper flakes – Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
- Toss in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce – Just a dash goes a long way.
- Use spicy Italian sausage – Slice it up and cook it alongside or instead of shrimp.
- Try a Cajun twist – Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning before cooking.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives – For a more Mediterranean vibe with a salty-spicy kick.
Don’t be afraid to experiment — shrimp scampi is super versatile, so you can make it your own!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat without losing flavor or texture:
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently – Use a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave — it can turn the shrimp rubbery.
- Don’t freeze – The pasta and sauce won’t hold up well in the freezer, and shrimp texture changes too much when thawed.
If you plan on making extra, consider storing the pasta and shrimp separately and combining them fresh when reheating.
Can You Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can — but with a few caveats. Shrimp scampi is at its absolute best when served fresh, but if you’re prepping ahead for a party or dinner, here’s how to do it smartly:
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Slice all your veggies, mince the garlic, and clean the shrimp ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge.
- Par-cook Pasta: Cook the pasta 1 minute less than al dente, drain, toss with a bit of oil, and store it in a sealed container.
- Make the Sauce: You can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance. Just don’t add the shrimp yet. Reheat the sauce gently before combining it all together.
- Cook Shrimp Last Minute: For the best texture, always cook shrimp right before serving. Reheated shrimp can get chewy or rubbery if you’re not careful.
This way, all your elements are ready and dinner comes together in under 10 minutes when it’s time to eat.
Shrimp Scampi Pairing Suggestions
A rich yet light dish like shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here’s what complements it best:
Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp and creamy — the ideal contrast to the warm scampi.
- Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: A healthy, simple veggie side.
- Lemon Roasted Potatoes: A starchier option that still fits the flavor profile.
Drinks
- White Wine: Stick with a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc — it complements the lemon and garlic beautifully.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing, non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate.
- Iced Tea or Arnold Palmer: A nice Southern touch that cools off the slight heat.
Nutritional Facts (Estimated)
Want to know what’s going into your body? Here’s an estimate for one generous serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~550–600 kcal |
| Protein | ~30–35g |
| Carbohydrates | ~45–50g |
| Fat | ~25–30g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sugar | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~700mg |
Note: These values can vary based on specific brands, substitutions, and portion sizes.
FAQs about Olive Garden Shrimp Scampi Recipe
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly — ideally in the fridge overnight or under cold running water. Avoid cooking them from frozen, as they won’t sear well.
2. What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with chicken broth or seafood stock and a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
4. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes make great additions. Just sauté them with the onions and peppers.
5. How do I prevent the pasta from clumping together?
Don’t overcook it, and if you’re not adding it to the sauce immediately, toss it in a little olive oil after draining to keep it from sticking.
Conclusion
And there you have it — a complete, step-by-step guide to making Olive Garden-style Shrimp Scampi that’s just as tasty (if not better) than the original. From selecting the perfect shrimp to nailing that buttery, garlicky sauce, you now have every tool in your kitchen arsenal to make this dish a success. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a homemade indulgence, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Don’t be surprised if this becomes a regular star on your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s flavorful, elegant, and comes together faster than you’d expect. Plus, that homemade touch always tastes better.
