Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake Delightful Dinner

November 11, 2025April 28, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

To make this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake, you will need:

– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 lemon, zested and juiced

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to your desired spice level)

These ingredients are the heart of the dish. The shrimp gives a sweet and briny flavor, while the garlic and butter create a rich base. The lemon adds brightness, and the red pepper flakes bring a hint of heat.

Optional Add-ins

You can make this dish even better with some add-ins:

– 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Adding spinach and tomatoes gives color and nutrition. The cheese adds a creamy texture, while the parsley provides freshness. Feel free to mix and match these add-ins based on your taste.

Seasonings and Adjustments

To enhance the flavors, use these seasonings:

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Adjust the spice level to your liking

Salt and pepper are essential to balance flavors. If you want more heat, add more red pepper flakes. You can also try different spices to create your own twist on this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Ingredients

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the dish evenly. While the oven heats up, prepare your shrimp. You want them peeled and deveined. Next, chop your spinach and halve the cherry tomatoes. Having your ingredients ready makes cooking easy and fun.

Cooking the Shrimp Mixture

Now, grab a large skillet. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. When the butter is melted and bubbly, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant but not brown. Then, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and add lemon zest. Toss in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the shrimp. Fold in the chopped spinach and halved tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.

Baking the Dish

Next, carefully transfer the shrimp and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. Spread it out evenly. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are coated. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the shrimp and veggies in the baking dish. Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the shrimp are cooked through.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

To get shrimp just right, look for a few key signs. First, the shrimp should turn a bright pink color. This means they are cooked through. The flesh will also become opaque. Overcooking can make shrimp tough and rubbery. To prevent this, watch the time closely. Cook them only until they change color, about 2-3 minutes in the pan. If you want to be extra sure, use a meat thermometer. The ideal internal temperature for shrimp is 120°F (49°C).

Breadcrumb Topping Techniques

A great topping can make your dish shine. For a golden brown crust, spread the panko mix evenly over the shrimp. Use fresh Parmesan cheese for a richer taste. If you want a twist, try adding crushed crackers or cornmeal for crunch. You can also mix in some herbs, like thyme or oregano, for extra flavor. For a fun change, consider using crushed tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs. They add a unique taste and texture.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, think about adding herbs and spices. Fresh parsley and basil brighten up the dish. You might also like to add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky note. A dash of lemon zest can enhance the lemony flavor too. If you enjoy heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños. These small changes can take your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake from good to amazing!

Variations

Seafood Alternatives

You can swap shrimp for other seafood. Scallops work great. They have a sweet taste and cook fast. Lobster is another option. Its rich flavor will elevate your dish. Just adjust cooking times based on the seafood you choose.

Vegetarian or Vegan Versions

If you want a vegetarian version, replace shrimp with mushrooms. They add a meaty texture. For a vegan option, use plant-based butter. You can also replace cheese with nutritional yeast. This gives a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Spicy and Flavorful Additions

To kick up the heat, add different peppers. Jalapeños or serranos can bring a fiery twist. You might also try hot sauce. A few dashes can make a big difference. Just remember to adjust the spice to your taste!

Storage Info

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

To keep your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake fresh, use an air-tight container. Make sure the dish cools down properly before sealing it. This prevents moisture build-up, which can make the shrimp soggy. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, you can choose between the microwave and the oven. The microwave is quick but can make the shrimp tough. If you want the best taste, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes.

Freezing Options

You can freeze this dish if you have leftovers. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best results.

FAQs

What is the best way to peel and devein shrimp?

To peel and devein shrimp, follow these steps:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water to clean them.

2. Hold the shrimp firmly in one hand.

3. Remove the shell by pulling it off from the head to the tail.

4. Use your fingers to pull off the shell completely.

5. To devein, make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp.

6. Remove the dark vein with the tip of your knife or your fingers.

This method keeps the shrimp clean and ready for cooking. Fresh shrimp will taste best in your Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake.

Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Here’s how:

– Prepare the shrimp mixture as directed and place it in a baking dish.

– Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.

– Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

– When ready to cook, remove it from the fridge.

– Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

This makes dinner planning easy and stress-free!

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake?

For a perfect meal pairing, consider these side dishes:

– Crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

– Light green salad to balance the dish.

– Roasted vegetables for extra nutrients and flavor.

These sides complement the shrimp scampi bake and make your meal delicious!

This recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake combines simple ingredients for great taste. You learned how to prepare the shrimp, bake it, and achieve the perfect crust. Remember, adjustments can make it fit your taste, whether adding spice or switching the protein. Enjoy leftovers with the right storage tips and reheating methods. With these steps and tricks, you can impress anyone at your table. Now, it’s time to create your own delicious dis