This Baked Shrimp Scampi is a tasty treat with juicy shrimp swimming in a buttery garlic sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s a simple dish that packs a punch of flavor!
Honestly, what’s better than garlic butter and shrimp? Sometimes I just make extra breadcrumbs to munch on while I wait! 😄 Serving this over pasta makes it even more delightful.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best texture. If you don’t have fresh, frozen shrimp works too—just be sure to thaw them thoroughly. Some people prefer using shrimp tails on for presentation, while others like them off for easier eating.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds rich flavor. If you’re on a dairy-free diet, substitute with vegan butter or olive oil. Personally, I love using garlic-infused olive oil for an extra layer of flavor!
White Wine: It brightens up the dish, but you can swap it for chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Just try to choose a broth that’s low in sodium for the best balance.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give a delightful crunch. If you don’t have panko, try regular breadcrumbs or crush crackers as an alternative, but note that the texture might be different.
How Do You Get Perfectly Baked Shrimp?
Getting the shrimp just right is crucial. You don’t want them overcooked and rubbery. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before baking. This ensures even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp as they bake. Typically, 12-15 minutes is all you need; they should turn pink and opaque but not too tough.
- Let them rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps to lock in flavor and juices!
Trust me, you’ll love the result—juicy shrimp with a crispy topping that balances buttery, garlicky goodness! Serve it with a nice side for a complete meal.
Baked Shrimp Scampi With Breadcrumbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Flavor:
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced and juiced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick to make but looks and tastes impressive!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly. Lightly grease a baking dish that’s big enough to fit all the shrimp in a single layer.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, dry white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This mix is what brings amazing flavor to your shrimp.
3. Arrange the Shrimp:
Place the cleaned shrimp evenly inside the prepared baking dish. This way every shrimp will get its share of that delicious sauce.
4. Coat the Shrimp:
Pour your buttery garlic mixture over the shrimp, making sure they are all well coated. You want every single shrimp to get that flavorful goodness!
5. Make the Breadcrumb Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and olive oil. Toss everything together until the breadcrumbs are nicely moistened.
6. Add the Topping:
Generously sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp, making sure to cover them well. This will create a wonderful crispy top as they bake.
7. Garnish with Lemon:
Take the thin lemon slices and artfully place them on top of the breadcrumb mixture for some eye-catching presentation and added flavor.
8. Bake the Dish:
Put the dish in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the shrimp to turn pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs to be golden brown and crunchy.
9. Let It Rest:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. This lets the dish settle and makes for easier serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the baked shrimp scampi warm, with extra lemon wedges on the side if you like. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy every bite of your flavorful, garlic butter baked shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before using them. The best way to thaw is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can put them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can easily substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. This will still provide a great depth of flavor in your dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to bake, combine everything and follow the baking instructions. This is a great time-saver!