This baked shrimp scampi is a simple and tasty dish, featuring juicy shrimp cooked in a garlicky butter sauce and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s the perfect mix of bold flavors and textures!
Who doesn’t love a meal that smells amazing while cooking? I enjoy serving this with some warm bread to soak up the yummy sauce. You won’t want to miss a drop! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh, medium to large shrimp work best for this dish. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp is a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Butter: Unsalted butter is a must for controlled seasoning. If you’re looking for healthier options, try using olive oil instead. It adds a nice flavor too!
Breadcrumbs: I prefer panko breadcrumbs because they add extra crunch. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for robust flavor, but you can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch—about 1/4 tsp should do it!
Parmesan: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely nutty flavor. If you’re out, pecorino Romano works well too. Vegan cheese can also substitute for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp Are Cooked Just Right?
Cooking shrimp properly is key to this dish. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery and tough, so here’s how to avoid that.
- Start with a quick check: shrimp will turn pink and curl into a ‘C’ shape when cooked.
- Bake them for only 10-12 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on them as they cook!
- If you’re using larger shrimp, you might need an additional minute or two, but check early to avoid overcooking.
Also, it helps to coat them well in the butter mixture before baking; this adds flavor and moisture. Serve them hot for the best taste! Enjoy your fiery, buttery scampi! 🦐
Baked Shrimp Scampi With Breadcrumbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Baking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked shrimp scampi will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the shrimp.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This is where all that yummy flavor comes from!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them gently in the spicy buttery mixture until they are well coated. Make sure every shrimp gets some love!
4. Mix the Topping:
In another bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. This crunchy topping will add a delightfully crispy texture to your dish.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil in a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet and spread it around to coat the bottom lightly. This will help prevent sticking.
6. Arrange the Shrimp:
Lay the coated shrimp in a single layer in the prepared dish. Once they’re all placed, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. This will create a wonderful crispy layer as it bakes!
7. Bake:
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
After taking it out of the oven, sprinkle some extra fresh parsley on top for color and a touch of flavor. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus!
9. Enjoy:
This dish is amazing when served with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of pasta to soak up all the delicious buttery sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding some of your favorite vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or spinach, for an extra burst of flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed bag under cold running water. Pat them dry before using to avoid extra moisture in the dish.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even ground oats for a different texture. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the shrimp and the sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine with the breadcrumbs right before baking to ensure they stay crispy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.