Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp. It’s a trio that never fails to deliver bold, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or just indulging in a seafood delight, Baked Shrimp Scampi is a dish that never disappoints.
Imagine juicy, tender shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, kissed with lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. No complicated techniques, no hours in the kitchen just pure, effortless deliciousness.
If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle, this baked shrimp scampi recipe will be your new favorite. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
✅ Bursting with Flavor – Buttery, garlicky goodness with a zesty lemon kick.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Serve it over pasta, or rice, or enjoy it on its own.
✅ Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with good fats.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a new go-to dish, this baked shrimp scampi is bound to impress.
Ingredients for the Best Baked Shrimp Scampi
Fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Large shrimp (peeled & deveined) | 1 lb | Main protein |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Adds richness |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Infuses flavor |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Enhances freshness |
| White wine or chicken broth | ¼ cup | Adds depth to the sauce |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Helps in roasting |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp | Adds a slight kick |
| Parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp | Fresh garnish |
| Grated Parmesan | ¼ cup | Adds savory depth |
| Breadcrumbs (optional) | ½ cup | For a crispy topping |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
Optional Add-ins & Variations
- Love pasta? Serve it over linguine or angel hair pasta.
- Watching carbs? Pair it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Extra cheesy? Sprinkle some mozzarella before baking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Shrimp Scampi
Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked shrimp scampi every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse and pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
- Season with salt and black pepper, then arrange in a baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine (or broth) and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Pour the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp evenly.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and optional breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.
💡 Pro Tip: For an extra crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp Scampi
- Use fresh shrimp – Wild-caught shrimp have the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook – Shrimp become rubbery if left in the oven too long.
- Choose the right wine – A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the sauce.
- Balance the flavors – Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Not sure how to serve your shrimp scampi? Here are some great options:
🍝 Classic: Over pasta with extra garlic bread.
🥗 Healthy: Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
🍞 Appetizer Style: Serve with toasted baguette slices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Baked Shrimp Scampi
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw completely and pat dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of White Wine?
For a non-alcoholic version, you can swap it with chicken broth or vegetable stock.
How Do I Store & Reheat Leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed.
Conclusion
Baked Shrimp Scampi is a dish that delivers on flavor, simplicity, and elegance. Whether serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe, and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Have a question? Drop it below we’d love to hear from you!
🍽️ Enjoy your homemade baked shrimp scampi! 🍤✨