Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe
If you’re searching for a meal that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare, Baked Shrimp Scampi is your answer! This classic seafood favorite wraps plump, juicy shrimp in a lively combination of garlic, butter, white wine, and a golden, herby breadcrumb topping. Ready in under 30 minutes, it delivers that elegant restaurant flair right from your own oven. Every bite is a flavor explosion that’s irresistibly bright, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying. This is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again for family dinners, special date nights, or whenever you crave something truly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of Baked Shrimp Scampi is how each ingredient works together to create bold flavor and perfect texture without fuss. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a tip or note for every item so you get the best results every time:
- Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are best for plump, juicy bites and quick, even cooking.
- Unsalted Butter: Using melted butter allows you to control the salt and adds irresistible richness to every mouthful.
- Olive Oil: Just a little helps sauté the garlic and keeps the topping crisp and light.
- Garlic: Four cloves brings that essential kick—don’t be shy, garlic is the backbone of classic scampi flavor!
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For just a touch of gentle heat; adjust up or down to match your spice preference.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed is a must for zingy, bright flavor that cuts through the buttery richness.
- Lemon Zest: A little zest packs big citrus punch and brings color and fragrance to the dish.
- Dry White Wine or Chicken Broth: Either ingredient delivers extra depth and moisture; choose according to your taste and pantry.
- Plain Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko both work—panko yields extra crunch, while classic breadcrumbs create a finer crust.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives a nutty, savory layer to the topping—pre-shredded just can’t compare.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds fresh, green color and herbaceous punch.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste—shrimp naturally loves a bit of salt!
- Lemon Wedges for Serving: An extra squeeze tableside wakes up all the flavors upon serving.
How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready to work its magic. Lightly grease your baking dish with a hint of oil or cooking spray, ensuring the shrimp won’t stick and that gorgeous scampi sauce stays put where it belongs.
Step 2: Arrange the Shrimp
Lay your peeled and deveined shrimp in a single, even layer in the prepared baking dish. This ensures every piece cooks through evenly and soaks up plenty of that luscious flavor—all without overcrowding.
Step 3: Make the Flavorful Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, lemon juice, lemon zest, and your choice of dry white wine or chicken broth. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. This is where the classic scampi flavor comes alive. Pour the mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece gets a flavor bath.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Toss together until well mixed. Sprinkle this delightful mixture evenly over the top of the shrimp, creating a crust that will toast up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into the hot oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and that breadcrumb-Parmesan topping is golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately while everything’s bubbling hot and filled with irresistible aroma.
How to Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi
Garnishes
Nothing elevates Baked Shrimp Scampi like a shower of fresh parsley and a few extra lemon wedges on the side. The herbs freshen every bite, while a final squeeze of lemon right before eating brings the flavors to life. If you want another pop of color, a few halved cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil makes a gorgeous finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Baked Shrimp Scampi is perfect over a tangle of linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta to soak up the stunning lemon-garlic sauce. Crusty bread is a classic choice to mop every drop—just try stopping at one slice! For something lighter, pair it with a simple green salad tossed in a bright vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or sautéed zucchini for a meal that feels fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress dinner guests by spooning individual portions into ramekins for a personal touch, or serve atop grilled polenta rounds for an unexpected twist. For a hearty gathering, arrange over a platter of herbed couscous or lemony quinoa with extra lemon wedges scattered around. However you serve it, make sure the golden topping and radiant colors are front and center—they’re irresistible!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Let your Baked Shrimp Scampi cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep happily in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp will gently reabsorb some of that bright, buttery sauce, ensuring your next meal is just as flavorful.
Freezing
While shrimp dishes typically taste best fresh, you can freeze baked shrimp scampi if needed. After cooling, wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe container up to 1 month. For best quality, flash freeze individual portions so you can reheat only what you need and minimize texture changes.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in a 300°F oven, covered loosely with foil, until warmed through (about 10-12 minutes). The oven helps keep the breadcrumb topping crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make shrimp rubbery, but if you must, use low power and check frequently for best results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for baked shrimp scampi?
Absolutely! Just thaw the shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water first, then pat dry before baking. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
What wine should I use in this recipe?
A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is perfect for Baked Shrimp Scampi, adding just the right acidity and depth. If you prefer no alcohol, low-sodium chicken broth works well as a substitute.
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble everything (except the breadcrumb topping) up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking for the crunchiest finish. This makes it wonderful for entertaining or a busy weeknight.
Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs for the regular ones. Double-check that your Parmesan is also gluten-free, and you’re good to go—no sacrifice in flavor or texture.
Can I turn this into a main course pasta?
For a true main dish, toss the baked shrimp and all its flavorful sauce with a pound of cooked pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water and a little extra lemon or butter to bring everything together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made Baked Shrimp Scampi at home, now’s your chance—the reward far outweighs the effort! The combination of buttery shrimp, zesty citrus, and a crispy golden topping is pure magic. Your family and friends are in for something special, and I promise it’ll be a hit at the table. Give this recipe a try and savor every flavorful, easy bite!
Print
Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of tender shrimp baked in a garlicky, buttery sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping in this delectable Baked Shrimp Scampi recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Prepare Shrimp: Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Make Sauce: Whisk together melted butter, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, lemon zest, and white wine or broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover Shrimp: Pour sauce over the shrimp.
- Add Topping: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and parsley. Sprinkle over the shrimp.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until shrimp are cooked and topping is golden.
- Serve: Serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
