Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, all baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Timing

Preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are well coated in the garlic butter mixture.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

1. Arrange in Dish: Transfer the shrimp mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Add Toppings (Optional)

1. Breadcrumb and Cheese Topping: If using, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the shrimp.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. If using breadcrumbs, they should be golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	290
Protein	25g
Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or spinach to the baking dish for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you like more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or basil, for a unique flavor profile.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Bake is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the rich taste of garlic butter with tender shrimp. Easy to prepare and quick to bake, this dish is perfect for any seafood lover. Enjoy it as a main course or as part of a larger meal!

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen shrimp; just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Crusty bread is also great for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.