Baked Shrimp Scampi is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp, garlic, butter, and white wine, all baked to perfection. This recipe is a wonderful twist on the classic shrimp scampi, infusing it with a rich, buttery flavor and a hint of wine that elevates the dish to a whole new level. The shrimp are bathed in a luscious sauce that seeps into every bite, creating a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a luxurious meal, Baked Shrimp Scampi is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
### Origins and Inspiration
Shrimp Scampi traces its roots back to Italy, where it was traditionally made with langoustines or prawns cooked in garlic-infused olive oil with white wine and served over pasta. This version takes a modern twist by baking the shrimp in a flavorful sauce, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. The inspiration for this recipe came from a cozy seaside restaurant I once visited, where the aroma of garlic and butter wafted through the air, mingling with the salty breeze. Recreating that experience at home has become a cherished tradition, one that I’m excited to share with you.
### Ingredients and Flavors
The key players in this dish are plump shrimp, minced garlic, butter, white wine, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of parsley for freshness. The shrimp are the star of the show, so be sure to select the freshest ones you can find—look for firm, translucent flesh with a slight sheen. When combined with the fragrant garlic, velvety butter, and tangy wine, the flavors meld together in a harmonious blend that dances on your taste buds. The lemon juice adds a zesty kick that cuts through the richness, while the parsley lends a pop of color and a hint of herbaceousness.
### Cooking Technique
The magic of Baked Shrimp Scampi lies in its cooking technique. By baking the shrimp in the flavorful sauce, the flavors intensify, and the shrimp soak up all the deliciousness, resulting in a dish that is both tender and bursting with flavor. The key is not to overcook the shrimp—keep a close eye on them in the oven to ensure they remain plump and juicy. The sauce should bubble gently around the shrimp, infusing them with its buttery, garlicky essence. Once out of the oven, a quick sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of freshness before serving.
Now that you know the story behind Baked Shrimp Scampi, let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of the seaside into your kitchen. Get ready to savor every bite of this luxurious dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Baked Shrimp Scampi
Description
Delicious baked shrimp scampi with a golden breadcrumb topping, garlic, lemon, and parsley. Perfect for a special dinner or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Baked Shrimp Scampi Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's ready when your dish is prepared.Having the oven preheated saves time and ensures even cooking. -
Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Shrimp Preparation
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Clean and Devein Shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact for presentation. -
Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.Ensure the shrimp is evenly coated for balanced flavors.
Assembling the Dish
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Arrange the Shrimp in the Dish
Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.Even spacing ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation. -
Add Butter and Wine Mixture
In a small saucepan, melt butter with white wine, lemon zest, and parsley. Pour this mixture over the shrimp.The buttery wine sauce adds richness and flavor to the dish.
Baking
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Bake the Shrimp
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
Serve and Enjoy
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Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot over pasta or with crusty bread.The fresh garnishes add a burst of color and flavor.
Note
- For a crispy breadcrumb topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, garlic, parsley, and lemon zest.
- Ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined before baking for easy eating.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque when done.
- Serve the baked shrimp scampi with a side of pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Feel free to add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.