Baked Shrimp Scampi
Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Baked Shrimp Scampi is a delightful seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce, baked to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This Baked Shrimp Scampi recipe is a twist on the classic dish, offering a healthier and easier way to enjoy the rich flavors of shrimp, garlic, and butter. It's perfect for serving with crusty bread or over pasta!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich garlic and buttery flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
- Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
- Elegant enough for special occasions and gatherings
The Perfect Main Course
Baked Shrimp Scampi is not only a delicious dish but also versatile enough to serve as a main course for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a satisfying meal on a busy weeknight, this recipe fits the bill. The combination of shrimp with the rich, buttery garlic sauce creates a dish that's both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for any dining experience.
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delectable sauce. The vibrant flavors of the shrimp scampi complement a variety of sides, allowing you to customize your meal and impress your guests. The ease of preparation means you can focus on enjoying the time spent with loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Cooking Tips for Success
For the best results, choose high-quality shrimp. Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture, but if you're short on time, frozen shrimp can be a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking to ensure even baking. Additionally, don't skip the fresh parsley and lemon juice, as they add a brightness that elevates the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be removed from the oven as soon as they turn a lovely pink color and are opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the dish. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Ingredients
For Baked Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Combine the ingredients in a bowl before baking for maximum flavor!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss well to coat.
Add Toppings
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Shrimp Scampi!
Serving Suggestions
Baked Shrimp Scampi is a wonderfully adaptable dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a light, tangy arugula salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens will enhance the flavors of the shrimp and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
For a heartier option, serve the shrimp scampi over a bed of pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. The pasta will soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite delicious. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
Wine Pairing Ideas
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Baked Shrimp Scampi with a suitable wine. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the buttery and garlicky flavors of the dish beautifully. These wines provide a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the shrimp and butter.
If you prefer red wine, opt for a light-bodied option like Pinot Noir. Its fruity notes and lower tannin levels won't overpower the dish and will enhance the overall flavor profile. Whichever you choose, serving the right wine can transform your meal into a truly memorable occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking.
→ What can I serve with Baked Shrimp Scampi?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, then bake just before serving.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Baked Shrimp Scampi
Baked Shrimp Scampi is a delightful seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce, baked to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For Baked Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss well to coat.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g