Baked Shrimp Scampi
Highlighted under: Dreamy Dessert Lab
This Baked Shrimp Scampi is a delightful twist on the classic dish, featuring succulent shrimp baked in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon.
Baked Shrimp Scampi is perfect for any occasion, bringing the taste of the coast right to your table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it's sure to impress your guests and family alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Succulent shrimp baked to perfection in a buttery sauce
- Garlic and lemon create a refreshing and zesty flavor
- Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner
A Flavorful Twist on Tradition
Baked Shrimp Scampi takes the classic Italian-American dish to new heights with its easy preparation and robust flavors. Instead of the traditional stovetop cooking method, this recipe showcases the shrimp in a baking dish, allowing them to soak up the buttery garlic sauce while developing a delightful crispy topping. This method not only enhances the dish's texture but also makes it a perfect choice for entertaining or a cozy weeknight meal.
The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon is a match made in culinary heaven. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The garlic adds depth and aroma, while the lemon brightens the dish, making it feel light and refreshing. Whether served over pasta, rice, or simply with crusty bread, this dish is sure to impress.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Baked Shrimp Scampi is versatile enough to suit a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or looking for a quick family dinner, this recipe has you covered. Its easy preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your guests.
Moreover, the dish can be customized to fit your preferences. If you prefer a little heat, add more red pepper flakes, or if you're a fan of herbs, feel free to experiment with basil or oregano. This adaptability allows you to make the dish your own, ensuring that it remains a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Scampi
To achieve the best results, always opt for high-quality shrimp. Fresh or frozen large shrimp will work beautifully in this recipe, but be sure to thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly before cooking. The size of the shrimp is crucial; larger shrimp not only look impressive but also provide a satisfying bite that complements the rich sauce.
When preparing the garlic, be careful not to overcook it in the skillet. Sautéing garlic just until fragrant prevents it from becoming bitter and ensures that the dish maintains a fresh, vibrant flavor. Finally, keep an eye on the breadcrumbs while baking; they should be golden brown and crispy to provide the perfect finishing touch to this delightful meal.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add Wine and Season
Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, lemon zest, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer.
Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink. Stir in the parsley.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with additional parsley before serving.
Enjoy your Baked Shrimp Scampi with a side of pasta or a fresh salad!
Serving Suggestions
Baked Shrimp Scampi is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing the sauce to coat each strand beautifully. Alternatively, a light salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
If you're looking for a low-carb option, consider serving it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. These alternatives not only provide a healthy option but also absorb the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them properly will ensure that you can enjoy this dish again. Allow the baked shrimp scampi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or on the stovetop to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish before baking. Assemble the shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container, sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top before baking fresh. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime you crave it, with minimal effort on your part.
Wine Pairing
Choosing the right wine to accompany your Baked Shrimp Scampi can elevate the dining experience. A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp and the acidity of the lemon. The crispness of the wine balances the richness of the butter and garlic, making each sip a delight.
If you prefer red wine, opt for a light-bodied variety like a Pinot Noir. While red wine is not the traditional pairing for seafood, a subtle red can still work well, especially if you enjoy the contrast of flavors. No matter your choice, ensure your wine is served chilled for the best experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and bake just before serving.
Baked Shrimp Scampi
This Baked Shrimp Scampi is a delightful twist on the classic dish, featuring succulent shrimp baked in a buttery garlic sauce with a hint of lemon.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Dreamy Dessert Lab
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, lemon zest, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a simmer.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink. Stir in the parsley.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and garnish with additional parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 22g