Craving the rich and indulgent flavors of Cheesecake Factory’s shrimp scampi? This copycat recipe is the perfect solution to recreate that restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
Juicy, golden-breaded shrimp paired with creamy linguine in a luxurious scampi sauce—it’s comfort food elevated.
Plus, this recipe is surprisingly simple and uses fresh ingredients that are both flavorful and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy the flavors of a fancy dinner without leaving your house.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, pasta type, or toppings to suit your taste.
Fresh and Nutritious Ingredients: Every ingredient adds a layer of flavor and health benefits.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Impress your loved ones with this delectable dish that feels gourmet.
Ingredients and Their Health Benefits
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb Jumbo Shrimp: A lean protein source packed with omega-3 fatty acids for heart health.
- 1 Tablespoon Butter: Adds richness and a creamy texture.
- 1 Teaspoon Cajun Seasoning: Provides a spicy kick and boosts metabolism.
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Brightens the flavor and supplies vitamin C.
- Salt to Taste: Enhances all the flavors.
For the Panko Breading:
- ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs: A light and crispy coating that keeps the shrimp airy.
- ¼ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor and calcium.
- ¼ Teaspoon Cajun Seasoning and Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Ties the shrimp and breading flavors together.
- 2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil for Frying: Keeps the shrimp golden and crispy.
For the Scampi Cream Sauce:
- ¼ Cup Parsley: Fresh herbs that provide antioxidants and enhance flavor.
- ¼ Cup Tomatoes: A source of vitamins A and C for immune health.
- ¼ Cup Red Onion or Shallot: Rich in antioxidants and adds depth to the sauce.
- 3 Garlic Cloves: Boosts immunity and adds a robust aroma.
- 1 Tablespoon Butter: Adds creaminess and smooth texture.
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream: Creates the velvety base for the sauce.
- ½ Cup Parmesan or Italian Cheese Blend: Melts into the sauce for bold, cheesy notes.
- ½ Tablespoon Lemon Juice & Lemon Zest: Adds brightness and freshness.
- ¼ Teaspoon Cajun and Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Layers the flavors beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Ensures the sauce is perfectly seasoned.
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz Linguine or Spaghetti: The ideal base for soaking up the creamy scampi sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, cajun seasoning, and lemon pepper seasoning in a shallow bowl.
- Coat each shrimp in the breadcrumb mixture and place them on a wire rack.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the shrimp for 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the shrimp to a cooling rack.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
- Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add red onion, garlic, parsley, and tomatoes. Sauté for 2 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, letting it cook off for about a minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Season with cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Add parmesan cheese and lemon juice, stirring until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until fully coated.
- Plate the pasta and top with the fried shrimp.
- Garnish with fresh lemon zest and parsley.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm and watch as this delectable dish brings smiles to your table.
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Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 998 kcal |
| Total Fat | 60 g |
| Saturated Fat | 32 g |
| Cholesterol | 389 mg |
| Sodium | 992 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 75 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Protein | 49 g |
Conclusion
This Copycat Cheesecake Factory Shrimp Scampi Recipe brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant dish to your home. The combination of crispy shrimp, creamy pasta, and tangy scampi sauce creates a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special celebration, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ready to dive into culinary bliss? Try this recipe today, and let the deliciousness unfold!