This Baked Shrimp Scampi is a crowd-pleaser! Juicy shrimp are tossed in garlic, butter, and lemon, then topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for a delightful finish.
Don’t you just love that crispy topping? It makes the dish extra special. I always serve it with a side of garlic bread to soak up all that flavorful sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use medium-sized shrimp. If shrimp isn’t available, scallops or even chunks of white fish can be great substitutes.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use olive oil instead for a delicious twist.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a lovely crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavor, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key for brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used, although fresh is always better.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch on Top?
Achieving that perfect crispy topping is all about the breadcrumbs! Here are some tips:
- Use panko breadcrumbs for their airy, crunchy texture.
- Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter or oil to help them brown evenly when baked.
- Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp to ensure every bite has that great crunch.
- Don’t be afraid to bake until golden brown—this adds flavor and texture.
Keep an eye on it while baking; you want the shrimp cooked through and the breadcrumbs nicely crisped. Enjoy your dish with a touch of fresh parsley sprinkled on top for color!
Baked Shrimp Scampi With Breadcrumbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to bake, making it ready in around 30 minutes. The shrimp bake quickly, so you’ll have a tasty meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish that’s large enough to hold all the shrimp in a single layer, which helps them cook evenly.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them for a bit of spice), lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss gently to ensure that each shrimp is evenly coated in the buttery garlic mixture.
4. Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the chopped parsley. This mixture will add a delicious crunch to the shrimp!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Arrange the shrimp in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. After that, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure to cover them nicely.
6. Bake the Shrimp:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs will become golden and crispy.
7. Final Touches:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy your crispy, garlicky Baked Shrimp Scampi with a lovely lemony brightness. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes before using. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs work just fine. For a gluten-free option, consider using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a different texture.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp and garlic mixture ahead of time, and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add the breadcrumb topping and bake when you’re ready to serve!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring the topping remains crispy. You can also microwave them, but be careful to not overheat!
