This Baked Shrimp Scampi is a real crowd-pleaser! Juicy shrimp are mixed with garlic, butter, and spices, then topped with crispy breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
I love making this dish for special dinners. It’s easy to prepare, and the smell of shrimp and garlic roasting in the oven is pure bliss. Plus, who can resist that crispy topping? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If you’re not a shrimp fan or allergic, try substituting with chicken or firm tofu in a similar recipe.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love panko for its light, crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but the texture might be a bit denser. You can also use crushed crackers for an interesting twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness, but you can swap it for olive oil for a lighter version. If you want a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds so much flavor! If you’re vegan or dairy-free, nutritional yeast could be a great substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its vibrant taste. You can use garlic powder if that’s all you have, though, about 1 teaspoon should do. Adjust to your taste!
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right is key to avoid a rubbery texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) so the shrimp cook evenly.
- Spread the shrimp in a single layer. This allows them to cook properly without steaming each other.
- Keep an eye on them while baking. Shrimp cook quickly, usually within 12-15 minutes, and they are done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Don’t overcook! Remove them as soon as they reach that perfect texture – they’ll continue to cook a bit even after you take them out.
These tips will help you serve perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy your dish! 😊
Baked Shrimp Scampi With Breadcrumbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked shrimp scampi can be prepared in about 15 minutes and then requires about 12-15 minutes of baking time. So in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your shrimp will cook evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating, you can prepare the rest of your ingredients.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), and salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well-coated in the mixture.
3. Arrange the Shrimp:
Next, pour the shrimp into a lightly greased baking dish. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer so they cook evenly. This will help them get that lovely golden color.
4. Make the Breadcrumb Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and olive oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened and well combined. This will create that crunchy topping!
5. Top the Shrimp:
Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp in the baking dish. Make sure it’s well-covered to achieve a nice crispy top.
6. Baking the Dish:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs should be golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
7. Garnishing:
Once done, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the baked shrimp scampi immediately, spooning any delicious buttery garlic sauce from the dish over the shrimp. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread!
Enjoy your meal – it’s absolutely delightful! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can defrost them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for quick thawing. Pat them dry before using to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! Regular breadcrumbs can be used instead, but keep in mind they won’t be as crunchy. Alternatively, crushed crackers or homemade breadcrumbs from stale bread can also work well and add a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, adding a touch of butter if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?
Yes, adding some veggies is a great idea! You can include sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach. Just toss them in with the shrimp before baking, and adjust the baking time slightly if necessary, as they might need a bit longer to cook.
