If you’ve ever wished for a shrimp dish that’s bursting with zesty freshness, buttery garlic goodness, and a crispy golden topping, your wish just came true. This Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe perfectly balances tangy lemon, rich butter, and a touch of spice to create a crowd-pleasing main that’s elegant yet incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe delivers all the sumptuous flavor and texture you crave in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe has a simple but essential role, bringing layers of flavor, texture, and brightness that come together effortlessly. From the plump shrimp and fresh herbs to the buttery, garlicky topping, every element enhances the dish in a delightful way.
- Shrimp (1-1½ lbs, peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, offering sweet and tender seafood flavor, with tails on for that lovely presentation (or off if you prefer ease of eating).
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon fresh): Adds a bright, citrusy zing to balance the richness of the butter.
- White wine (1 tablespoon, optional): Brings subtle depth and acidity; can be swapped for extra lemon juice, chicken stock, or omitted altogether.
- Unsalted butter (5 tablespoons, melted and cooled): For that luscious, silky texture and classic scampi richness.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Packs a punch of savory aroma, making the whole dish pop.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the underlying flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon): A gentle kick to keep things interesting.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): The secret to layering citrus brightness without extra acid.
- Feta cheese (¼-½ cup, fine crumbled): Offers a creamy, tangy twist that partners wonderfully with the shrimp.
- Fresh oregano (1 teaspoon, torn or chopped): Brings a fragrant herbaceous note to elevate the dish.
- Minced parsley (1 teaspoon plus more for garnish): Adds a fresh, green touch both in flavor and appearance.
- Panko breadcrumbs (¾ cup): For that unbeatable crispy topping that seals in the flavor and texture.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons) for topping: Ensures the breadcrumbs toast to golden perfection.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon) for topping: To season the crust just right.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, optional): Mix into the panko for an extra cheesy crunch if you prefer a Parmesan topping twist.
How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by making sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined, tails on or off according to preference. Toss the shrimp gently with lemon juice, white wine (if using), melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, crumbled feta, fresh oregano, and parsley. This marinade lets the shrimp soak up that classic scampi flavor, marrying buttery, tangy, and savory notes before baking.
Step 2: Mix the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and salt. If you want to take it up a notch, stir in grated Parmesan cheese for a savory golden crust. This topping is what gives the dish that irresistible crunch and beautiful browned finish.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the marinated shrimp to a baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Sprinkle the buttery panko mixture generously over the top, making sure the breadcrumbs cover the shrimp well. Pop the dish into a 375°F oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque with the topping crisp and golden. The timing ensures juicy shrimp that don’t overcook, with a perfect crunchy crust.
How to Serve Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
Once baked, a sprinkle of fresh minced parsley over the hot dish brightens the presentation and adds a burst of fresh herbal flavor that complements the rich scampi perfectly. You can also add an extra squeeze of lemon for that fresh zing.
Side Dishes
This shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with light and simple sides. Serve alongside garlic butter pasta, steamed asparagus, or a crisp green salad. The buttery shrimp can also be spooned over risotto or creamy polenta for a comforting meal that feels special with minimal fuss.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party, serve the baked shrimp in individual ramekins or as a shareable dish on a large platter garnished with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. It’s also wonderful spooned over toasted baguette slices as a fancy appetizer or light lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from this Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. While the crispy topping may soften, the flavors remain outstanding, making it easy to enjoy the next day.
Freezing
This dish isn’t ideal for freezing with the breadcrumb topping as it can lose its texture. However, you can freeze the seasoned shrimp separately before baking for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake with fresh topping for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in an oven at 325°F to help restore some crunch to the topping without overcooking the shrimp. Microwaving works in a pinch but can lead to soggy topping and rubbery shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture which can affect baking and the crunchy topping.
Is the white wine really necessary?
Not at all. White wine adds subtle acidity and complexity, but you can substitute it with extra lemon juice, chicken stock, or simply leave it out without losing the essence of the dish.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! If you love heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add finely chopped fresh chili to the marinade for an extra kick.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
Feta adds a tangy creaminess, but goat cheese works well too. If you prefer a milder option, you can omit it and increase the Parmesan in the topping.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp cook quickly. When they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose ‘C’ shape, they are perfectly cooked and ready to come out of the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to dishes when I want something elegant yet effortless. The combination of zesty lemon, bold garlic, and that irresistible buttery crunch makes it hard to stop at just one helping. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of joy to any table.
PrintBaked Shrimp Scampi Recipe
This Baked Shrimp Scampi recipe is a delightful and easy-to-make seafood dish featuring tender shrimp baked in a flavorful lemon, garlic, and butter sauce, topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust. The addition of feta cheese and fresh herbs provides a unique Mediterranean twist, making it a perfect elegant yet simple meal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1–1½ lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on (remove tails if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white wine (optional, can substitute with extra lemon juice or chicken stock, or omit)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced (or more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼–½ cup fine crumbled feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, torn or chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced parsley, plus more for garnishing
For the Toppings
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: For Parmesan cheese version – mix in ¼ cup Parmesan cheese with the panko topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed completely, peeled, and deveined with tails left on or removed as preferred.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, white wine (if using), minced garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, feta cheese, fresh oregano, and minced parsley. Stir well to mix all flavors evenly.
- Toss Shrimp in Sauce: Add the shrimp to the bowl with the sauce mixture and toss gently to coat all the shrimp thoroughly with the flavorful butter and herb mixture.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the coated shrimp to a baking dish, spreading them out evenly in a single layer for even cooking.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and salt. For a variation, mix in Parmesan cheese with the panko as well.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with extra fresh parsley for garnish, and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or a light salad.
Notes
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit white wine or substitute it with chicken stock or additional lemon juice.
- The shrimp can be served with or without tails according to your preference.
- Adjust garlic and red pepper flakes to taste for more or less heat and flavor intensity.
- To keep the topping extra crispy, add Parmesan cheese to the panko mixture for a richer crust.
- Ensure not to overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if baked too long.
