Shrimp Scampi is a dish synonymous with indulgence and sophistication, but with this crispy baked version, it becomes a recipe that is not only elegant but also easy to prepare.

Imagine succulent shrimp coated in a garlicky, buttery sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs, and baked to perfection. This dish combines comfort and class, making it perfect for everything from a weeknight dinner to a special occasion.

This recipe takes traditional shrimp scampi to the next level with a crunchy topping, offering a delightful contrast to the tender shrimp and creamy sauce.

Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or trying to incorporate more seafood into your meals, this Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi is a must-try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe?

Simple Preparation: With a short prep time and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is approachable even for beginner cooks.

Flavorful and Crispy:The buttery garlic sauce combined with a crispy breadcrumb topping is irresistible.

Versatile: Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Quick Cooking Time: Baking ensures the shrimp are perfectly cooked and ready in no time.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a holiday feast, this dish fits the bill.

Ingredients

1- For the shrimp:

1 1/2 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
3 cloves garlic (minced)

1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

2- For the crispy topping:

3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)

2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp olive oil

3- Optional garnish:

Lemon wedges
Additional parsley

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preheat the oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or ovenproof skillet to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the shrimp:

In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

3. Make the crispy topping:

In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.

4. Assemble the dish:

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is well-covered for that delicious crunch.

5. Bake:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the topping is golden brown.

6. Broil for extra crispiness:

For an extra crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

7. Serve:

Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Variations

Herb Swap: Substitute parsley with fresh dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Add Zest: Mix lemon zest into the breadcrumb topping for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cheesy Upgrade: Use a combination of Parmesan and Gruyère cheese for a richer topping.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using to avoid excess water in the dish.

What size shrimp should I use?
Large shrimp work best for this recipe as they remain juicy and tender during baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and topping separately and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving.

What can I pair this dish with?
Serve it over linguine, rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve

Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with:

Pasta: Toss the shrimp and buttery sauce with spaghetti or linguine for a classic combination.
Rice: Serve over steamed white rice, pilaf, or even risotto.

Crusty Bread: Use bread to soak up the garlicky, buttery sauce for a simple yet satisfying side.
Salad: Balance the richness of the dish with a crisp green salad or a tangy Caesar salad.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi brings together the best of flavors and textures. It’s garlicky, buttery, crispy, and downright addictive. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

With minimal effort and maximum reward, it’s bound to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again.

Enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends!