Shrimp Scampi Pasta from O'Charley's features succulent shrimp sauteed in garlic butter and white wine sauce, tossed with al dente linguine and garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan, delivering a flavorful and aromatic Italian-inspired dish.
Equipments
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander
- Tongs
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Mixing bowl (optional, for tossing)
- Ladle or large spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz (340g) linguine
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Shrimp should be fresh or fully thawed for the best texture and flavor. Using dry white wine enhances the sauce's aroma without overwhelming the shrimp. Butter and olive oil balance richness and prevent the garlic from burning during sauteing. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal note, while freshly grated Parmesan ensures the optimal cheesy finish. Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta from O'Charley's copycat menu will capture the authentic taste of the original dish through these carefully selected ingredients.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook linguine until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add shrimp; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook shrimp until pink and opaque (2-3 minutes per side); remove shrimp and set aside.
- Pour white wine into the skillet; simmer 2-3 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
- Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter until melted.
- Return shrimp to the skillet.
- Add drained linguine; toss to coat in sauce.
- Sprinkle in chopped parsley and most of the grated Parmesan; toss again.
- Divide pasta among plates.
- Top with remaining Parmesan and extra parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Substitution
Shrimp Scampi Pasta from O'Charley's copycat menu perfectly blends tender shrimp with a garlic butter and white wine sauce, creating a rich and flavorful Italian dish. If dry white wine is unavailable, substitute with low-sodium chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice to maintain the sauce's acidity and depth. You can swap linguine for other long pasta types like spaghetti or fettuccine without compromising texture. Using pre-minced garlic or garlic powder can save prep time while still providing that signature garlic aroma. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as shrimp can vary in natural saltiness.
Tips
Ensure shrimp are thoroughly peeled and deveined to prevent an unpleasant texture or taste in your dish. When boiling linguine, salt the water generously to enhance the pasta's flavor; it should taste slightly like the sea. Cook shrimp only until pink and opaque to avoid toughness, typically 2-3 minutes per side, as overcooking shrinks and dries them out. Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melt and flavor integration, and squeeze lemon wedges over the finished dish to brighten and balance the richness.
Nutritions
Shrimp Scampi Pasta provides a rich source of lean protein from the shrimp, which supports muscle maintenance and repair. The olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while butter adds creaminess and flavor, albeit in moderation due to its saturated fat content. Garlic and fresh parsley deliver antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, enhancing the dish's nutritional profile. You can enjoy this meal as a balanced option combining protein, carbohydrates from linguine, and beneficial micronutrients.
Storage
Store leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the shrimp from drying out. Consume within 2 days for the best flavor and texture, reheating gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Avoid freezing as the pasta sauce and shrimp texture may deteriorate upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the white wine in the sauce with chicken broth or seafood stock for a milder flavor profile. For a richer texture, swap half of the butter with heavy cream to create a creamy scampi sauce. Consider using fettuccine or spaghetti instead of linguine to vary the pasta texture. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of lemon juice before serving can enhance the dish's depth and brightness.
Allergies
Your Shrimp Scampi Pasta contains shellfish, a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. The dish also includes Parmesan cheese, which contains dairy and might affect those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Always ensure to inform your server of any allergies before ordering to avoid cross-contact risks.
Why this recipe?
O'Charley's Shrimp Scampi Pasta features succulent shrimp sauteed in garlic butter sauce, tossed with perfectly al dente pasta and fresh herbs, delivering a rich and savory flavor profile. The combination of tender shrimp, tangy lemon zest, and subtle spice creates a delicious balance that appeals to seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the dish to your taste preferences, control ingredient quality, and enjoy the same restaurant-quality meal at home for less. Your mastery of this flavorful recipe will impress guests and satisfy cravings, making it a worthwhile culinary project.