Baked Shrimp Scampi is one of those dishes that instantly transports me to warm coastal nights, with the smell of garlic and butter wafting through the air. Whenever I prepare this delightful meal, I can’t help but think of the summer dinners spent on the patio with friends, digging into heaping plates of pasta while the sun sets on the horizon. There’s something so comforting about this dish. It’s simple yet impressive, making it perfect for everything from a cozy weeknight dinner to a dinner party that wows your guests! And trust me, it’s all about that buttery, garlic goodness; your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Now, the best part about Baked Shrimp Scampi is that it checks all the boxes: it’s rich in flavor, comes together quickly, and is unlike any takeout you might order! So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
What’s in Baked Shrimp Scampi?
Shrimp: Naturally, the star of the show! I prefer using large shrimp, peeled and deveined for convenience. Fresh shrimp is always the best option, but frozen works wonderfully too—just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry!
Pasta: Spaghetti or linguine are great choices for this dish. They both hold onto the buttery sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight.
Unsalted Butter: This is my go-to for any garlic-based dish. It adds a rich flavor and creaminess that’s hard to beat. Melted, of course!
Olive Oil: I always reach for extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor. It complements the butter, adding a nice depth to the overall taste.
Garlic: The more, the merrier! I can never get enough garlic—it’s the magic ingredient that makes this dish sing.
Red Pepper Flakes: A little spice goes a long way! Adjust to your preference; I like a tiny kick to enhance the flavors.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for rounding out the flavors. A little seasoning elevates everything!
Lemon Juice and Zest: Think of lemons as the finishing touch! They bring a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley is not only for garnish; it brings a fresh pop of color and a hint of earthiness.
Breadcrumbs (optional): If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch—it’s totally optional but highly recommended!
Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): Because who doesn’t love cheese? A sprinkle on top takes this dish to the next level!
Is Baked Shrimp Scampi Good for You?
This dish strikes a nice balance between indulgence and healthy eating. The main ingredient, **shrimp**, is low in calories, high in protein, and packed with nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. The **olive oil** is a healthy fat, known for its heart benefits, especially in the Mediterranean diet. However, it’s worth noting that this dish does contain a good amount of butter, so if you’re counting calories, you might want to go light on the butter or use a butter substitute. The pasta is great for carbs, fueling your energy, but if you’re looking to lighten things up further, feel free to swap in whole wheat pasta or even zucchini noodles!
Overall, I’d say enjoy your Baked Shrimp Scampi in moderation, savoring each flavorful bite!
Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Serves: 4
How to Make Baked Shrimp Scampi?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well.
4. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the garlic-butter mixture.
5. In a large baking dish, place the cooked pasta and pour the shrimp mixture over it. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles and shrimp are thoroughly combined.
6. If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top for added crunch.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot, with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Baked Shrimp Scampi!
Sizzling Serving Suggestions
To take your Baked Shrimp Scampi up a notch, I love serving it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity from the lemon ties everything together beautifully! And let me tell you, people will be coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Feel free to play around with the spices; add some lemon slices on top before baking for extra zesty goodness!
I hope you’re inspired to give this recipe a try. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. When you whip up your Baked Shrimp Scampi, please share your thoughts and any tweaks you made; I’d love to hear how it turned out! Happy cooking!
