Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake

If you’re craving a dish that combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavors of garlic and butter, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious, easy-to-make meal that brings the classic taste of shrimp scampi to your oven, topped with a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the buttery garlic sauce paired with tender shrimp will leave you wanting more.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Shrimp scampi is a beloved dish for good reason—it’s simple, fast, and bursting with flavor. What sets this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake apart is the ease of preparation combined with a delightful baked finish. Instead of cooking shrimp on the stove, this recipe lets you bake everything together, making cleanup a breeze and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The garlic butter sauce infuses every bite of shrimp, while the breadcrumb and Parmesan topping adds a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish from everyday to extraordinary.

This bake is incredibly versatile and can be paired with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread. Plus, with the zing of lemon juice and a touch of red pepper flakes, it strikes the perfect balance of bright, savory, and slightly spicy. It’s no surprise that fans of dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp And Rice will appreciate this baked version for its ease and flavor.

Ingredient Notes

• Large shrimp: Use 1 pound of large shrimp that is peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Four tablespoons of melted butter create the rich base for the garlic sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level.
• Garlic: Four cloves, minced fresh garlic is essential for that vibrant and pungent flavor that defines scampi dishes.
• Lemon juice and zest: The juice of one lemon adds brightness, while the zest delivers concentrated citrus aroma and flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Just a quarter teaspoon adds a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper: To season the shrimp and balance the flavors perfectly.
• Fresh parsley: Two tablespoons of chopped parsley add freshness and a pop of color.
• Breadcrumbs: Half a cup of breadcrumbs creates a crispy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the tender shrimp.
• Parmesan cheese: A quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, savory richness to the crust.

What’s in the Gear List

• Baking dish: An 8×8-inch or similar-sized casserole dish works well to hold the shrimp and sauce evenly.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the garlic butter sauce ingredients.
• Measuring spoons and cups: To ensure precise amounts of each ingredient.
• Knife and cutting board: For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.
• Spoon or spatula: To mix and spread the topping evenly.
• Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish.

Directions: Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until well incorporated. This mixture will serve as the flavorful base for your shrimp.

Step 3: Toss the Shrimp

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the garlic butter sauce. Toss until each shrimp is evenly coated in the mixture.

Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish

Transfer the shrimp and all the garlic butter sauce to your prepared baking dish, spreading the shrimp out in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp.

Step 6: 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 breadcrumb topping is golden and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. For a creamy twist, try pairing it with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini. For a different flavor profile, consider serving alongside Cajun Shrimp And Rice Bowls.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• In spring and summer, serve this bake with a light arugula or mixed greens salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.
• Swap out the parsley for fresh basil or dill in warmer months for a different fresh herb flavor.
• In colder months, accompany the dish with roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash.
• Add a side of garlic bread or warm baguette to soak up the buttery sauce year-round.
• For a heartier winter meal, serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.

Things That Go Wrong

• Shrimp overcooking: Shrimp cook very quickly; baking beyond 15 minutes can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on the oven to avoid this.
• Soggy topping: If the breadcrumbs get soggy, it may be due to excess liquid in the dish. Make sure to evenly coat the shrimp but avoid pooling of sauce at the bottom.
• Underseasoned sauce: Taste your garlic butter sauce before adding shrimp and adjust salt and lemon juice accordingly to ensure balanced flavor.
• Uneven cooking: Arrange shrimp in a single layer so they bake uniformly; overlapping shrimp can cause some to cook faster than others.

Shelf Life & Storage

Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 2 days for the best taste and texture. When reheating, use a gentle heat in the oven or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp. This dish is not ideal for freezing as shrimp tend to become tough after freezing and reheating.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before tossing in the garlic butter sauce. This prevents excess water from diluting the flavors and ensures even cooking.

Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Increase the red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level or add a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate it uncovered to let the topping stay crisp. Bake just before serving for the best results.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake?

This bake pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. For more ideas, check out recipes like Garlic Butter Shrimp And Rice or Cajun Shrimp And Rice Bowls.

Explore More

• Garlic Butter Shrimp And Rice – A perfect complement with buttery shrimp and fluffy rice.
• Cajun Shrimp And Rice Bowls – For a spiced-up alternative to traditional scampi flavors.
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Tortellini – A rich, comforting pasta dish with garlic shrimp.

Hungry for More?

If this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake has you inspired, don’t stop here! Explore other shrimp dishes that bring bold flavors and simple techniques to your kitchen. From skillet meals to pasta bowls, shrimp is a versatile ingredient that elevates any dinner. Enjoy the ease of baking and the indulgence of garlic butter in this recipe, and then branch out with new pairings and sides to keep your meals exciting all year round.

This bake is all about bringing rich, comforting flavors to the table with minimal fuss. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So preheat that oven, get your ingredients ready, and enjoy the delightful taste of garlic, butter, and shrimp in every bite!

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