Name: Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds large shrimp tail on (12-15 per lb), rinsed and dried; 1 medium diced shallot; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper, more or less to taste; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, more or less to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, more or less to taste; 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup Italian parsley; 2 tablespoons cilantro (optional); 4 cloves minced garlic; 4 tablespoons melted butter, divided

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 4 reviews

There is something truly magical about shrimp cooked to perfection, bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, and topped with a golden, crunchy crust. This Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe brings all those irresistible flavors together in one simple, speedy dish that feels fancy enough to serve when you have guests but is also perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Ready in just about 15 minutes, it transforms ordinary shrimp into a savory celebration of bright lemon, fresh herbs, and Parmesan. I love how this recipe is both effortless and bursting with flavor — a real winner for seafood lovers and anyone craving a light yet indulgent meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A gray metal tray holds six small white scalloped dishes and glass bowls with various ingredients arranged neatly. In the top left glass bowl are small purple and white chopped pieces, next to a scalloped bowl with bright yellow zest. Below, a round white bowl filled with minced light yellow pieces, and next to it a small clear bowl with fresh green leaves. In the lower left corner is a metal measuring cup filled with shredded pale yellow cheese. Near the bottom right, a scalloped dish contains four spices: coarse white salt, ground black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and reddish-brown paprika. Off to the right, on a white marbled surface, a clear glass measuring cup holds a stick of pale yellow butter, and a small white bowl with light yellow liquid. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on this dish is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch individually and shine even brighter combined. Each component is chosen to enhance the juicy shrimp with zesty, buttery goodness and a crispy topping that hits all the right notes of texture and flavor.

2 pounds large shrimp, tail on: Using tail-on shrimp keeps the seafood tender and succulent while making it easy to handle.
1 medium diced shallot: Adds a hint of sweet, mild onion flavor that melts beautifully into the sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings richness and helps infuse the flavors into the shrimp.
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the dish and adds that signature scampi tang.
2 teaspoons lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma for a fresh burst in every bite.
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper: Provides just the right amount of heat to awaken your palate.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and peppery notes.
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs: Creates the irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts perfectly with tender shrimp.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings savory depth and umami to the crust.
1/4 cup Italian parsley: Fresh herbaceous brightness that keeps things vibrant.
2 tablespoons cilantro (optional): Introduces a fresh, slightly citrusy twist for adventurous palates.
4 cloves minced garlic: The heart and soul of scampi — infusing the dish with aromatic richness.
4 tablespoons melted butter, divided: For lusciousness in the shrimp and throughout the crunchy topping.

How to Make Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Shrimp

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit — this high heat will give you perfectly cooked shrimp and a golden crumb topping. Rinse and thoroughly dry your shrimp with paper towels to help them absorb the marinade better and avoid sogginess.

Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, diced shallots, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat each shrimp lovingly in this vibrant, zesty marinade. This step is where the magic starts, as all those bright, bold flavors get cozy with the seafood.

Step 3: Prepare the Crispy Topping

Grab a second bowl and mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian parsley, optional cilantro, minced garlic, and half of the melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly combined and looks like a beautiful blend of buttery, herbaceous, and cheesy crumbs ready to crown your shrimp.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Arrange the marinated shrimp in a large baking dish, placing them tail side up for an elegant presentation and even cooking. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, then drizzle with the remaining melted butter. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn a lovely pink and the topping is nicely golden and crisp.

How to Serve Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe

A close-up view of a black skillet filled with a layered shrimp casserole. The bottom layer shows whole cooked pink shrimp placed in a circle, tails pointing outward. Over the shrimp is a thick layer of golden-brown breadcrumb topping mixed with chopped green herbs scattered unevenly across the surface. The skillet rests on a white marbled textured surface. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a few lemon wedges brighten the dish and add inviting pops of color. A little extra grated Parmesan on top warms guests’ hearts and makes each bite even more decadent. I always recommend freshly cracked black pepper at the table to tweak the flavor just right.

Side Dishes

This Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the garlicky buttery sauce. Think crusty bread, a light green salad, or tender pasta tossed in olive oil. Roasted or steamed vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes also make fantastic companions, rounding the meal out without stealing the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the shrimp on a bed of creamy polenta or cauliflower rice to keep things low-carb but fancy. You can also turn this dish into an irresistible shrimp scampi pasta bake by layering cooked noodles underneath before baking. Nothing beats a splash of fresh herbs and a drizzle of lemon oil to make your presentation irresistible!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the crunchy topping might lose some of its crispness, but the flavors will still be delightfully satisfying.

Freezing

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked shrimp scampi in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Note that freezing may affect the texture of the bread crumbs.

Reheating

To reheat, place your leftovers in an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 8-10 minutes. This will help refresh the topping somewhat and keep the shrimp tender and juicy. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery shrimp texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating. This ensures the flavors absorb nicely and helps the topping stay crisp.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, swap the regular panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the crunchy texture while catering to gluten sensitivities.

Is it necessary to leave the tails on shrimp?

Leaving the tails on helps the shrimp stay juicy during baking and makes for a lovely presentation. However, if you prefer peel-and-eat convenience, feel free to remove tails before cooking.

How spicy is this recipe?

The crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference — omit it for a milder version or add more for extra zing.

Can I prepare the crumb topping ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the breadcrumb topping in advance and store it in the fridge, covered, for up to a day. Just give it a quick stir before spreading over the shrimp to maintain even distribution.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe is such a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Whether you want a quick meal after a busy day or an impressive dish to share with friends, it delivers with bright flavors, satisfying textures, and a speed that feels almost like cheating. Give it a try — I promise it will soon be one of your favorite go-to seafood dishes!

Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need