Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to pull off, allow me to introduce you to Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi. This is one of those marvelous recipes that dazzles at dinner parties yet whips up quickly enough for a weeknight treat. Lemon, garlic, and succulent shrimp join forces beneath a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping to create a melody of flavors and textures in every bite. Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi is always a hit at my table because it brings big flavor with minimal fuss and never loses its wow factor!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi lies in its mix of simple, fresh ingredients. Each component brings something special—think juicy shrimp for sweetness, breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch, and bright herbs to tie everything together beautifully.

• Shrimp: Opt for large, peeled and deveined shrimp for the most satisfying bite and easy prep.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with wonderful savory depth that can’t be matched by powder.
• Lemon zest and juice: These add a zingy freshness that makes the whole dish sing and balances the richness.
• Breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Panko breadcrumbs get irresistibly crisp in the oven, ensuring every bite of Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi crunches delightfully.
• Butter: Melted butter carries all the flavors and helps the topping turn golden-brown.
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): It melts into the topping for a luxurious, cheesy finish.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley brings in lovely color and a touch of freshness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out all the other flavors and bringing balance to the dish.
• Olive oil: Drizzling a bit over the top before baking makes the crispiness truly next level.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Add a gentle whisper of heat if you like a little kick in your scampi.

How to Make Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp completely dry with paper towels—this is key for a great crisp! Give them a generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. If your shrimp are particularly large, butterfly them for more surface area to soak up all those great flavors.

Step 2: Mix the Flavor Base

In a small bowl, combine your minced garlic, lemon zest, and a tablespoon of chopped parsley. This mixture is going to infuse the shrimp with incredible aromatics while the dish bakes. Don’t skimp—garlic is the heart of any truly flavorful Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi!

Step 3: Layer the Shrimp and Cover with Goodness

Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in a shallow baking dish. Sprinkle your garlic and lemon mixture evenly over the top, ensuring every shrimp gets a bit of the sunshine. Set aside while you make the irresistible crispy topping.

Step 4: Create the Crispy Topping

In another bowl, toss together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. The butter and oil fatten up the panko so it won’t soak up too much shrimp juice—a crucial trick for preserving crunch in Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi!

Step 5: Sprinkle and Bake

Spread your buttery, cheesy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, pressing down gently with the back of a spoon. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until the shrimp are opaque and the topping is gloriously golden and crisp, usually about 12-15 minutes. I like to broil it for the final minute or so to guarantee maximum crunch.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi

Garnishes

Nothing completes Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi like a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a flurry of extra lemon zest right before serving. These simple touches brighten up the whole dish and make it look restaurant-worthy. For an extra pop, try a few chives or thinly sliced green onions as well.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with everything from a simple arugula salad to twirls of buttery linguine. Garlic bread is a must for catching every bit of those luxurious, lemony juices. If you’re craving veggies, roasted asparagus or steamed green beans on the side are always a hit.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi to the next level by serving it in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or spooning generous heaps over toasted crostini for an irresistible appetizer. For a summery touch, try stuffing the scampi mixture into hollowed-out zucchini boats and baking as usual—your guests will be wowed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare around here!), transfer any remaining Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. It keeps well for up to two days, though the topping may lose a bit of its crispness.

Freezing

Freezing is best done before baking: assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as you normally would. Freezing after baking isn’t ideal, as the breadcrumbs tend to go soggy—but a quick retoast can work in a pinch!

Reheating

For best results, reheat Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi in a 350°F (175°C) oven, uncovered, until heated through and the topping regains some crunch, about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it steams the breading.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat them as dry as possible before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent that perfectly crispy topping from forming.

Is Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi spicy?

Not by default. The optional red pepper flakes add just enough heat to tickle your tastebuds, so leave them out for a milder version or add a pinch more if you like it fiery!

Can I make Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi gluten-free?

Certainly! Swap the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your Parmesan is gluten-free (most are). The result will be just as deliciously crisp.

What size shrimp is best?

I find that large (16-20 per pound) or extra-large shrimp offer the best texture and stay juicy after baking. That said, you can use smaller shrimp—just reduce the baking time accordingly.

Do I need to flip the shrimp during baking?

No flipping needed! Baking them in a single layer ensures they cook evenly and keeps the beautiful crispy topping right where it should be—on top.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making Crispy Baked Shrimp Scampi at home, now is the perfect moment to make it your new favorite dish. Each bite promises a burst of savory garlic, bright lemon, and that signature golden crunch. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed by how simple and spectacular shrimp scampi can be from your own oven!

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