Easy & Delicious Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Shrimp scampi is a classic Italian-American dish known for its rich, garlicky, buttery sauce and succulent shrimp. While traditionally cooked on the stovetop, baking shrimp scampi in the oven is a surprisingly easy and equally delicious alternative. This method simplifies the cooking process, allowing for even cooking and hands-off time, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining. This recipe will guide you through creating a flavorful and satisfying baked shrimp scampi that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

## Why Bake Shrimp Scampi?

Baking shrimp scampi offers several advantages:

* **Ease and Convenience:** No need to stand over the stove, constantly stirring. The oven does most of the work.
* **Even Cooking:** The consistent temperature of the oven ensures the shrimp cook evenly, preventing some from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
* **Hands-Off Time:** While the shrimp are baking, you can focus on preparing side dishes or setting the table.
* **Perfect for Crowd:** Baking is easier way to prepare for serving scampi to family or friends.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients:

* 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your preference)
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 6 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), or chicken broth
* 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Crusty bread or pasta, for serving
* Lemon wedges, for garnish

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
* Small bowl for mixing sauce
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Garlic press (optional)
* Cutting board
* Knife

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect baked shrimp scampi:

**Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp**

* **Rinse the Shrimp:** Thoroughly rinse the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven and prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
* **Devein (if necessary):** If you purchased shrimp that are not already deveined, use a small knife or a shrimp deveiner to remove the dark vein along the back of the shrimp. This is primarily for aesthetic purposes, but some people find the vein unappetizing.

**Step 2: Make the Scampi Sauce**

* **Melt the Butter:** In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. You can also melt it in a small saucepan over low heat.
* **Add Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. If you want a more intense garlic flavor, let the garlic sit in the melted butter for a few minutes to infuse the butter with its flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
* **Incorporate the Rest:** Stir in the white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning – the shrimp need to absorb the flavors.

**Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp in the Baking Dish**

* **Prepare the Dish:** Lightly grease your baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil. This prevents the shrimp from sticking.
* **Arrange the Shrimp:** Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Overlapping the shrimp slightly is fine, but try to avoid overcrowding the dish. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking, which won’t give you the desired browning.

**Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Shrimp**

* **Even Distribution:** Pour the scampi sauce evenly over the shrimp, making sure each shrimp is well coated. Use a spoon to help distribute the garlic and parsley.

**Step 5: Bake the Shrimp**

* **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* **Bake:** Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the sauce is bubbly. The exact baking time will depend on the size of your shrimp and your oven, so keep a close eye on them. Check for doneness at 12 minutes and add more time if needed. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

**Step 6: Broil for Extra Browning (Optional)**

* **Broil Briefly:** For a more golden-brown finish, you can broil the shrimp for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Watch them very carefully to prevent burning.

**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy**

* **Garnish:** Garnish the baked shrimp scampi with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
* **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce, or over your favorite pasta.

## Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp Scampi

* **Use Fresh Shrimp:** Fresh shrimp will always yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked shrimp is rubbery and unpleasant. Cook them just until they are pink and opaque.
* **Adjust the Garlic:** Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. If you love garlic, feel free to add more! If you prefer a milder flavor, use less.
* **Use Good Quality Butter:** Since butter is a key ingredient in scampi sauce, using good-quality butter will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the dish.
* **Add a Pinch of Spice:** Red pepper flakes add a nice touch of heat to the scampi. If you don’t like spicy food, you can omit them.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh parsley is essential for adding brightness and flavor to the dish.
* **Dry White Wine:** Using a good quality dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio really enhances the flavor profile. If you dont have any wine, or prefer not to cook with wine, you can substitute with chicken broth.
* **Lemon Juice:** Fresh lemon juice is key to balancing the richness of the butter and garlic.
* **Serve with Bread or Pasta:** Crusty bread or pasta are perfect for soaking up the delicious scampi sauce.

## Variations and Additions

* **Add Vegetables:** You can add vegetables such as asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the baking dish along with the shrimp. Add them in the last 5-7 minutes of baking so they’re tender but not mushy.
* **Make it Spicy:** If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
* **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
* **Creamy Scampi:** For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after baking.
* **Coconut Shrimp Scampi:** Add a tablespoon of coconut milk or coconut cream to the scampi sauce to make it sweeter. This goes well with a topping of coconut flakes after baking the shrimp.

## Serving Suggestions

Baked shrimp scampi is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as part of a larger meal.

* **Appetizer:** Serve in small bowls with crusty bread for dipping.
* **Main Course:** Serve over pasta, rice, or quinoa.
* **Side Dish:** Serve alongside grilled vegetables or a salad.

## Make Ahead Instructions

While baked shrimp scampi is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Simply mix all the sauce ingredients together and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, pour the sauce over the shrimp and bake as directed.

## Storage and Reheating

* **Storage:** Store any leftover baked shrimp scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the shrimp scampi in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp. Shrimp scampi can also be reheated in a skillet on the stovetop until shrimp is warmed. Add a bit of butter or broth when reheating on the stovetop to prevent the shrimp from drying out.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-400 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
* Protein: 30-35 grams
* Fat: 20-25 grams
* Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams

## Conclusion

Baked shrimp scampi is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful sauce, tender shrimp, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!

## Recipe Card

**Baked Shrimp Scampi**

**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15 minutes
**Total Time:** 25 minutes
**Servings:** 4

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 6 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
* 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange shrimp in a single layer in a greased baking dish.
4. Pour sauce over shrimp, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra browning (optional).
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately with crusty bread or pasta.

**Enjoy!**