This Baked Shrimp Scampi is a tasty dish loaded with juicy shrimp, garlic, and a crunchy topping of breadcrumbs. It’s simple to prepare, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
I love that this meal feels fancy but is super easy to make. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy watching it bubble and brown. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp is ideal for this dish, but you can use medium shrimp if that’s what you have. For a different twist, consider using scallops or even a mix of seafood!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best flavor control. If you’re looking for a lighter option, olive oil works well too. It adds a nice richness without as many calories.
White Wine: While it adds great depth, you can skip the wine. Instead, use a bit more lemon juice or fish stock to keep some moisture and flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a great crunch. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs can work, but they won’t be as crispy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also available if necessary!
Red Pepper Flakes: They add a bit of heat. If spicy isn’t your thing, simply leave them out or reduce the amount. Smoked paprika can be a nice alternative for flavor without the heat.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunchy Topping?
The key to a great crispy topping lies in using panko breadcrumbs and baking at the right temperature. Here’s how to nail that crunchy goodness:
- Mix panko with grated Parmesan for extra flavor and crunch.
- Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before baking.
- Keep an eye on your dish in the last few minutes. If the breadcrumbs aren’t browning, you can place it under the broiler for a minute or two—just watch carefully to prevent burning!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and perfectly cooked Baked Shrimp Scampi every time!
Baked Shrimp Scampi With Breadcrumbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Shrimp Scampi with Breadcrumbs will take you about 15 minutes to prep and about 12 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes total, you can have this wonderfully fragrant and crunchy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
First, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, take a baking dish or ovenproof skillet and lightly grease it with a bit of cooking spray or butter.
2. Make the Butter Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and white wine (if you’re using it). Add in the red pepper flakes (if you like some heat), along with salt and black pepper. Whisk this all together until well mixed.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the buttery mixture. Toss them around gently so they get nicely coated with all the delicious flavors. This is where all those tasty ingredients come together!
4. Place Shrimp in Dish:
Next, take the shrimp and arrange them evenly in your prepared baking dish. Make sure they are spread out nicely so they cook evenly.
5. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This is going to make a crunchy, flavorful topping!
6. Add the Topping:
Now, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture all over the shrimp, covering them well. The panko is what gives us that delightful crunch, so don’t be shy!
7. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when the shrimp turn pink and the topping is golden brown and crispy, you’ll know it’s ready.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully take the dish out of the oven. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and some extra parsley on top if you’d like. It adds a lovely touch!
9. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your Baked Shrimp Scampi right away. It’s great on its own, or you can pair it with some crusty bread or over a bed of pasta to soak up all that garlic goodness!
Enjoy your flavorful and crunchy Baked Shrimp Scampi with Breadcrumbs!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before using them. The best way to thaw them is to place them in the fridge overnight or put them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! Regular breadcrumbs will work, but your topping may not be as crispy. If you have crushed crackers or chips, those can also be great alternatives for that added crunch.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prep everything up to the baking step, then cover the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just take it out and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, just warm them in the oven or microwave, but keep in mind the topping might lose some of its crunch.
