Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Baked Shrimp Scampi is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a superstar chef without breaking a sweat. Picture juicy shrimp bathed in a garlicky, lemony butter sauce, baked under a golden, cheesy breadcrumb topping—every bite delivers classic flavors with an irresistible crunch. The best part? It comes together in minutes, making it a go-to for both busy weeknights and impromptu dinner parties. Whether you’re craving something cozy or aiming to impress, Baked Shrimp Scampi always rises to the occasion.

Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Shrimp Scampi is how each ingredient brings something special to the table. Simple, fresh items combine to create a dish that’s vibrant, savory, and absolutely mouthwatering. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:

  • Shrimp (1 ½ lbs large, peeled and deveined): The star of the show—look for large shrimp for the juiciest result and tender bite.
  • Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps create that luscious sauce everyone loves.
  • Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Balances the butter and ensures a silky texture with a hint of fruitiness.
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Delivers classic scampi flavor—don’t be shy, garlic makes everything better!
  • Dry White Wine or Chicken Broth (½ cup): Lends vibrant acidity (wine) or savory depth (broth); use what you love.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs (½ cup): For that irresistible crispy topping; panko keeps it extra light and crunchy.
  • Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated): Adds a salty, nutty finish to the golden topping.
  • Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Brings everything to life with a bright, zesty kick.
  • Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor—don’t skip it!
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For a subtle, lingering heat that’s totally customizable.
  • Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a burst of color and freshness right before serving.
  • Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Shrimp

Start by setting your oven to 400°F so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated and glistening—this is where all that flavor magic begins!

Step 2: Arrange the Shrimp

Once your shrimp are coated in that zippy, buttery goodness, arrange them in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spreading them out ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the sauce, giving you perfectly juicy shrimp in every bite.

Step 3: Mix and Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp in the baking dish. This step is what gives Baked Shrimp Scampi its signature golden, crunchy finish—don’t skimp!

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Bake the dish in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the breadcrumb topping is beautifully golden brown. The aroma at this point is absolutely mouthwatering!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

As soon as you pull the dish from the oven, scatter fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi warm, straight from the baking dish, and get ready for rave reviews at the table.

How to Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi

Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A shower of freshly chopped parsley is classic, but you can also add a few extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra tangy squeeze. A dusting of more Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can amp up the flavor and make your Baked Shrimp Scampi look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This dish shines with simple sides. Spoon it over angel hair pasta or fluffy rice to soak up every drop of that garlicky butter sauce. If you prefer something lighter, pair it with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. And don’t forget a loaf of crusty bread—perfect for scooping up the saucy bits!

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping appetizer, serve individual portions of Baked Shrimp Scampi in small ramekins. Hosting a casual dinner? Pile it high on a platter with grilled veggies and lemon wedges for sharing. It’s also fantastic tucked into warm rolls for a gourmet shrimp scampi sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Baked Shrimp Scampi (lucky you!), transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of baking. It will stay fresh for up to two days, though the breadcrumbs may soften a bit over time.

Freezing

While freshly baked is best, you can freeze Baked Shrimp Scampi before baking. Arrange everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, place the shrimp in a baking dish and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 8 to 10 minutes. For best results, avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery and the topping soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Baked Shrimp Scampi?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry with paper towels before tossing with the marinade. This prevents excess moisture and helps the sauce cling to every shrimp.

What type Main Course

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal—these wines add acidity without overpowering the delicate shrimp. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute.

Is Baked Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?

It’s easy to make this dish gluten-free by swapping the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative or simply omitting them. Either way, you’ll still get all those bold, garlicky flavors.

Can I prepare Baked Shrimp Scampi ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish up to a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, sprinkle on the breadcrumb topping and bake as directed.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the tastiest results, reheat leftovers in the oven rather than the microwave. This helps maintain the shrimp’s tender texture and keeps the topping crispy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Baked Shrimp Scampi enough—it’s a recipe that never fails to impress and always delivers pure comfort. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this dish brings everyone to the table with big flavors and minimal fuss. Give it a try and let it become a new favorite in your kitchen!

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Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

A delicious and easy-to-make Baked Shrimp Scampi featuring succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, topped with a golden Parmesan panko crust, and baked to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp Mixture

  • 1 ½ lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your shrimp scampi.
  2. Toss the Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, white wine or chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
  3. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they sit evenly for uniform cooking.
  4. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese to create a crunchy and savory topping.
  5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture evenly over the shrimp in the baking dish, covering them lightly.
  6. Bake: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the breadcrumb topping becomes golden brown and crispy.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and serve warm. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to enjoy the delicious sauce.

Notes

  • Serve over pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
  • If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce baking time to just 6–8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 210 mg

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