Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta from Olive Garden features tender shrimp lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp, tossed in a garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine and fresh parsley, delivering a savory and zesty appetizer with a crunchy texture.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Frying pan or skillet
- Deep fryer or large pot (for frying)
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Plate or tray
- Saucepan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Make sure your shrimp are fully peeled and deveined for the best texture and taste. Use panko breadcrumbs rather than regular breadcrumbs to achieve a light and crispy coating when fried. Maintain the oil temperature at around 350degF to ensure even frying without sogginess. Fresh garlic and dry white wine in the sauce provide authentic flavor, so avoid substitutes if possible. Your Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta from Olive Garden copycat menu will closely match the original taste with these ingredient tips.
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- Set up three separate bowls: flour (mixed with garlic powder, salt, pepper), beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge shrimp in flour mixture, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry shrimp in batches until golden and crisp, 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove shrimp with slotted spoon; drain on paper towels.
- In saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in white wine and lemon juice; simmer 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and toss in chopped parsley.
- Place fried shrimp in mixing bowl; toss with warm garlic butter sauce.
- Plate shrimp; garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Substitution
Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta from Olive Garden copycat menu offers a crispy, garlicky shrimp appetizer that pairs delightfully with a buttery white wine sauce. If you don't have panko breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or cornflakes can be used as a crunchy alternative. White wine enhances the sauce's flavor, but chicken broth or dry vermouth can substitute if wine is unavailable or undesired. Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350degF to ensure shrimp fries evenly without absorbing excess oil. Your fritta will stay crispier if drained on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil.
Tips
Make sure to pat your shrimp completely dry before dredging to ensure the batter adheres properly and prevents sogginess. Maintain oil temperature at a steady 350degF (175degC) for even frying; using a thermometer helps keep consistency. When tossing the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce, do it off the heat to avoid overcooking and to keep the sauce silky. Your freshest parsley and lemon wedges will enhance the crisp shrimp's zesty flavor, so don't skip these final touches.
Nutritions
Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta contains approximately 450-500 calories per serving, with protein mainly from the shrimp, providing about 25 grams. The dish also includes roughly 30 grams of carbohydrates from the flour and panko breadcrumbs, and 25 grams of fat derived from frying oil and butter used in the sauce. Garlic and fresh parsley contribute beneficial antioxidants and micronutrients, while the lemon juice adds vitamin C. Your meal offers a balanced combination of protein and fats, but due to frying, it is relatively high in calories and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
Store your Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain its crisp texture and fresh flavors. Reheat gently in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore the crunchy coating without sogginess. Avoid microwaving to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery and the breading from losing its crispiness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips to add a different crunch and flavor profile to your shrimp fritta. For a spicier kick, incorporating cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the flour mixture elevates the seasoning. Instead of frying, try baking the breaded shrimp at 425degF (220degC) for 12-15 minutes to reduce oil usage and still achieve a crispy texture. Using a splash of vermouth or chicken broth as a substitute for white wine in the garlic butter sauce offers a non-alcoholic alternative without compromising taste.
Allergies
Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta contains shellfish, wheat, and eggs, common allergens that can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Cross-contamination with gluten and seafood proteins may also pose risks if you have severe allergies. Always inform your server about your allergies to ensure your meal is prepared safely.
Why this recipe?
Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta from Olive Garden features golden-fried shrimp tossed in a buttery garlic sauce, creating a perfect balance of crispiness and rich flavor that delights seafood lovers. The dish combines tender shrimp with a tangy scampi sauce made from garlic, lemon, and white wine, offering a restaurant-quality taste experience. You can control the quality of ingredients and customize the seasoning when you try to make a copycat version at home, ensuring freshness and personal flavor preferences. Recreating this menu favorite allows you to enjoy a beloved dining staple with the comfort and satisfaction of homemade cooking.