Baked Shrimp Scampi
Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking
Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic dish with this Baked Shrimp Scampi recipe, featuring succulent shrimp baked in a garlic, butter, and herb sauce.
This Baked Shrimp Scampi is a perfect blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. The garlic and herb-infused butter sauce adds a rich taste, while the succulent shrimp bake to perfection.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich garlic and herb flavor that elevates the shrimp
- Simple and quick preparation for a weeknight dinner
- A delightful dish that feels gourmet without the fuss
A Flavorful Twist on Tradition
Baked Shrimp Scampi is a modern take on the traditional shrimp scampi dish that has been a favorite for generations. This recipe enhances the classic flavors of garlic and butter by baking the shrimp with a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. The contrast of textures between the tender shrimp and the crunchy topping adds a delightful surprise that will impress your family and friends.
One of the standout features of this dish is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a gourmet meal that feels special. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a weeknight meal, Baked Shrimp Scampi is sure to elevate your dining experience without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This Baked Shrimp Scampi pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the shrimp. Alternatively, a side of garlic bread is an excellent choice for soaking up the delicious sauce, ensuring that none of the flavors go to waste.
For a complete meal, you can also serve this dish over a bed of pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, which complements the shrimp and sauce perfectly. Drizzle a bit of extra lemon juice over the top just before serving for an added brightness that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and slightly translucent. If you can, purchase shrimp that are wild-caught for the best flavor. Additionally, be mindful of the cooking time; overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
Another tip is to customize the recipe to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. Alternatively, you can add other herbs like thyme or oregano to introduce new flavors. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Baked Shrimp Scampi:
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Baked Shrimp Scampi:
Prepare the Shrimp
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, parsley, and lemon juice. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Assemble the Dish
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Bake the Shrimp
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers after your meal, storing them is quite simple. Allow the baked shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the shrimp from becoming overcooked.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. While the texture may change slightly, it will still taste delicious. Place the cooled shrimp scampi in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
Baked Shrimp Scampi not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers several nutritional benefits. Shrimp is a great source of protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. This makes it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal that supports muscle growth and overall wellness.
The use of fresh herbs like parsley not only adds flavor but also contributes vitamins and antioxidants. Olive oil, a key ingredient, is known for its heart-healthy fats, making this dish a wholesome option that can fit into a balanced diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
→ What can I serve with Baked Shrimp Scampi?
Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours before baking.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Baked Shrimp Scampi
Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic dish with this Baked Shrimp Scampi recipe, featuring succulent shrimp baked in a garlic, butter, and herb sauce.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Classic Comfort Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, parsley, and lemon juice. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 25g