Baked Shrimp Scampi with Breadcrumbs is a warm and tasty dish that’s sure to impress! Juicy shrimp are mixed with garlic, butter, and herbs, then topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.
This dish is great for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. I love how easy it is to whip up, and it smells amazing while it bakes! Serve it with some pasta, and you’re all set! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Choose large shrimp for this dish. If you’re not a fan of shrimp or have allergies, try substituting with chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces or even fish like salmon for a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add great crunch, but if you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch. You could also make your own by toasting and crushing stale bread.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. If you prefer a lighter option, olive oil works well too. It gives a nice flavor without the richness of butter.
Garlic: Fresh garlic truly elevates this dish, but if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Get the Breadcrumbs Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that ideal crispy topping is crucial! First, you want to mix the panko with olive oil to ensure they toast evenly. Here’s how:
- Combine the panko with olive oil in a small bowl until evenly coated.
- Spread the breadcrumbs out evenly on top of the shrimp; this helps them crisp up nicely.
- Make sure your oven is properly preheated before placing the dish inside. This ensures quick cooking and a crispy texture.
- Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; they can go from perfect to overdone quickly!
These techniques will help you achieve that crunchy topping everyone loves! Enjoy your baked shrimp scampi! 🍋
Baked Shrimp Scampi With Breadcrumbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to bake, making it an easy 25-30 minute meal. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels fancy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a large cast-iron skillet or a baking dish with olive oil to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Gently toss them in the garlic butter mixture until they’re all coated nicely.
4. Arrange the Shrimp:
Spread the shrimp out evenly in the prepared skillet or baking dish. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
5. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened, which helps them get nice and crispy.
6. Add the Breadcrumbs:
Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp. This will give your dish a delicious crunchy top.
7. Bake:
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs will be golden brown and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish it with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges. The freshly squeezed lemon juice will really brighten up the flavors.
9. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Baked Shrimp Scampi warm, alongside your choice of pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the delightful combination of garlicky shrimp with crispy breadcrumbs!
Dig in and savor the moment! 🍤🍋
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking! The best way to do this is to place them in the fridge overnight or submerge them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the recipe.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the shrimp and the breadcrumb topping a few hours in advance. Just keep the shrimp and the breadcrumbs separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, layer them and bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for about 5-10 minutes to keep the breadcrumbs crispy or microwave on low heat, covering it loosely with a lid.
Can I Use Regular Breadcrumbs Instead of Panko?
Yes, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though they may not be as crunchy as panko. If you want a little extra texture, try toasting regular breadcrumbs in a pan with a bit of olive oil before adding them on top of the shrimp.