Effortlessly Delicious Baked Shrimp Scampi with Lemon-Garlic Butter and Crunchy Almonds

Embark on a culinary journey with this incredibly simple yet elegant recipe for baked shrimp scampi. This dish has been a timeless favorite for its unparalleled ease, tantalizing flavors, and a delightful twist that sets it apart from traditional versions. Imagine plump, succulent shrimp perfectly baked in a vibrant lemon-garlic butter sauce, infused with a hint of dry white wine. But here’s where it gets interesting: instead of classic breadcrumbs, we crown this masterpiece with a generous scattering of crunchy almonds and a flourish of fresh parsley. An optional splash of Amaretto liqueur introduces a subtle, sophisticated depth, harmoniously complementing the rich, buttery notes and enhancing the almond essence. This baked shrimp scampi recipe is a true kitchen hero, quick enough to transform a busy weeknight into a gourmet experience, yet undeniably elegant for entertaining guests. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll achieve a foolproof, flavor-packed meal that generously creates its own luscious, ready-to-serve sauce.

This lemony, buttery baked shrimp scampi stands out as one of my all-time favorite shrimp recipes. Its appeal lies in its straightforward preparation and the incredible results it delivers. After a brief marinade at room temperature, these tender shrimp bake to perfection in about 10 minutes, creating a magnificent dinner complete with a delectable, built-in buttery sauce. It’s truly super easy, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs looking for a quick yet impressive meal.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi

There are countless reasons why this baked shrimp scampi recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Its blend of simplicity, speed, and sensational flavor makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

• Unbelievably Easy and Fast to Make: Forget complicated steps and lengthy cooking times. This recipe streamlines the process, allowing you to whip up a gourmet-quality meal with minimal effort. The quick marinating and baking ensure that dinner is on the table in record time.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home: You’ll be amazed at how a dish so easy can taste like it came straight from a fine dining establishment. The rich butter, bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and delicate white wine create a sophisticated flavor profile that truly impresses.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re planning a quiet dinner for two on a busy weeknight or hosting a lively dinner party, this shrimp scampi is a crowd-pleaser. Its elegant presentation and rave-worthy taste make it ideal for entertaining, while its quick prep ensures stress-free cooking.
• Minimal Active Cooking Time: The shrimp only requires a short 20-30 minute marinade at room temperature, followed by a mere 10 minutes in the oven. This hands-off approach frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax before dinner.
• Naturally Low Carb (without pasta): If you’re conscious about carbohydrate intake, this dish is a fantastic option. When served with alternatives like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, it fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Shrimp is a lean protein source, rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Paired with fresh lemon, garlic, and heart-healthy olive oil, this scampi offers a wholesome and satisfying meal.

For another fantastic and easy shrimp recipe, don’t miss our Italian-style Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo.

Essential Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe Ingredients

Crafting the perfect baked shrimp scampi begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors of this exquisite dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Shrimp: The star of the show! For the best flavor and texture, I highly recommend seeking out wild-caught shrimp over farmed varieties. You can purchase them thawed at the seafood counter or opt for frozen shrimp to thaw at home. The size matters slightly for baking time; smaller shrimp will cook faster. Ideal sizes typically range from 13-15 (jumbo), 16-20 (large), or 21-25 (medium-large) shrimp per pound.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter forms the rich, luscious base of our scampi sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to precisely control the overall saltiness of the dish. If you have dairy sensitivities or prefer an alternative, ghee works beautifully, as do many plant-based butter substitutes.
• Dry White Wine: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or unoaked Chardonnay, is crucial for adding complexity and a subtle acidity to the sauce. It deglazes the flavors and creates depth. A great tip: instead of opening a full bottle, consider buying the convenient airline-sized bottles for cooking small quantities.
• Almonds: This is our unique twist! Slivered or sliced almonds provide a wonderful, delicate crunch and nutty flavor that complements the butter and lemon beautifully. They offer a delightful texture contrast without the heaviness of traditional breadcrumbs.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Paired with butter, olive oil contributes a fantastic rich flavor and helps in the overall emulsification of the sauce, adding a smooth, luxurious texture.
• Amaretto Liqueur (Optional): While optional, a couple of tablespoons of Amaretto add a truly special touch. Its subtle almond flavor enhances the almonds in the topping and introduces a delicate sweetness and aromatic depth, making this scampi a bit more unique and memorable.
• Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable for that bright, zesty acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter and elevates all the flavors. Always use fresh-squeezed juice. Save the lemon zest for an extra garnish or freeze it for future recipes!
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are paramount for the iconic scampi flavor. Finely chopped or minced, about two large cloves will infuse the sauce with their pungent, savory essence. If fresh isn’t an option, good quality garlic paste or puree can be used in a pinch.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh Italian parsley adds a burst of herbaceous flavor and a vibrant green color, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal of the finished dish. It’s the perfect fresh counterpoint to the rich sauce.
• Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out and balance all the wonderful flavors. Adjust to your personal preference.

Please refer to the detailed recipe card below for exact measurements and quantities for each ingredient.

Chef’s Tip: Choosing and Thawing Shrimp for Baked Scampi
When selecting the best shrimp for your baked shrimp scampi, you have the option of fresh or frozen. For frozen shrimp, the ideal thawing method is overnight in the refrigerator. Place them in a sealed plastic bag or a covered flat baking dish. If you’re short on time and need to quick-thaw frozen shrimp, seal them in a plastic bag, press out any excess air, and submerge the bag in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes. Depending on their size, shrimp typically thaw in an hour or less using this method. Remember, shrimp are highly perishable; aim to cook them within 24 hours of purchase or thawing for optimal freshness and safety.

Baked Shrimp Scampi Substitutions and Variations

This baked shrimp scampi recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs or taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

• Wine Alternatives: If you prefer to make shrimp scampi without wine, unsalted vegetable broth or verjus (unfermented pressed grape juice) are excellent non-alcoholic substitutes that will still provide a good base for the sauce.
• Almond Modifications: If almonds aren’t your preference, feel free to omit them entirely. The scampi will still be delicious with its rich lemon-garlic butter sauce.
• Amaretto Flavor Replacement: If you’re skipping the Amaretto but still desire that subtle almond essence, add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the marinade. A splash of cognac could also offer an interesting depth.
• Herb Alternatives: While fresh parsley is classic, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or a hint of fresh oregano for a different flavor profile.
• A Savory Finish: For those who enjoy a little extra richness, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving adds a wonderful savory depth. While traditional Italian scampi might not include cheese, it’s a popular and delicious American adaptation!
• Adding a Spicy Kick: If you like a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the marinade or as a garnish will provide a pleasant warmth.

Chef’s Tip: Small Bottles for Cooking
When a recipe calls for a small amount of wine, spirits, or liqueurs, there’s no need to buy a large, expensive bottle. Many grocery or liquor stores offer convenient “airline-sized” mini bottles. These are perfect for cooking, ensuring you don’t have leftover alcohol that might go to waste, or simply for trying a new flavor without a big commitment.

Step-by-Step Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe Instructions

Preparing this baked shrimp scampi is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect dish every time.

Pro Tip: If you plan to serve your baked shrimp scampi with pasta, now is a great time to get your pasta water boiling. Add a couple of teaspoons of salt to the water for perfectly seasoned pasta.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

First, ensure your shrimp are clean and ready. If they haven’t been peeled and deveined already, now is the time to do it. Gently peel off the shell and legs, leaving the last tail segment intact for a beautiful presentation and an easy handle. Using a sharp paring knife, make a shallow slice along the curved back of each shrimp. This exposes the dark vein (the digestive tract), which can be gritty. Carefully remove the vein by rinsing under cool running water. Once cleaned, pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. Drying the shrimp helps them sear better and absorb the marinade more effectively.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Marinade

In a large bowl or microwave-safe measuring cup, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the fresh lemon juice, dry white wine, extra virgin olive oil, slivered or sliced almonds, finely chopped fresh garlic, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh chopped parsley. If you choose to incorporate the optional Amaretto liqueur, add it now. This combination creates a savory, aromatic, and slightly nutty marinade that will infuse the shrimp with incredible flavor during baking.

Step 3: Marinate and Bake the Shrimp

Arrange the cleaned and dried shrimp in a single layer within a large, flat baking dish or casserole dish. Pour the prepared lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the shrimp to marinate at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. This short marinating time is crucial for the flavors to meld and penetrate the shrimp. While the shrimp marinates, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Once the oven is preheated and the shrimp have marinated, place the baking dish into the hot oven. Bake for approximately 8-12 minutes, or just until the shrimp turn opaque pink and are cooked through. The exact cooking time will vary slightly depending on the size of your shrimp and the calibration of your oven. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly. If you’re using exceptionally large jumbo shrimp, you might need to gently turn them halfway through baking to ensure even cooking on all sides, adding an extra minute or two if necessary.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Shrimp Scampi

Baked shrimp scampi is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. While the shrimp are baking, you can effortlessly whip up a fresh green salad with an easy homemade Italian dressing.

Here are some delicious ways to serve your perfect shrimp scampi:

• Classic Pasta: Serve the scampi over a bed of angel hair pasta, spaghetti noodles (traditional or gluten-free), or linguine. The pasta soaks up all that incredible lemon-garlic butter sauce, making every bite heavenly.
• Lighter Alternatives: For a low-carb or gluten-free option, present your shrimp scampi over zucchini noodles (zoodles), cauliflower rice, or even spaghetti squash noodles. The sauce complements these lighter bases perfectly.
• Rice: A simple white rice or a lemon-herbed rice pilaf makes a fantastic absorbent base for the flavorful sauce. Our cauliflower rice with Parmesan and herbs is another excellent choice that adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Crusty Bread: Don’t let a single drop of that amazing sauce go to waste! Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty artisan bread for dipping. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy every last bit.
• Vegetable Sides: Alongside your main base, consider roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach for a balanced meal.

Before serving, generously spoon the luscious sauce from the baking dish over each portion. For an extra touch:

• Sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a grind of fresh black pepper.
• Add a fresh lemon wedge to each plate, allowing guests to add more bright lemon flavor if desired.
• Garnish with a little more freshly chopped parsley for an appealing splash of color and fresh aroma.

Need a little something sweet to complete your dinner party? Lemony desserts are the perfect answer. Consider serving this refreshing homemade lemon ice cream or an elegant lemon olive oil cake.

Tips for Buying and Preparing the Best Shrimp

The quality of your shrimp directly impacts the success of your scampi. Making informed choices when purchasing and handling shrimp will elevate your dish significantly.

• Wild vs. Farmed Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp. They generally have a better flavor and texture than farmed varieties. Furthermore, choosing wild shrimp supports more sustainable fishing practices and avoids many of the environmental concerns associated with shrimp farming. For more information, check out this enlightening article about farmed shrimp and the Sustainable Shrimp Guide from Seafood Watch.
• Fresh or Frozen: Both fresh and frozen shrimp can be excellent. If buying fresh, look for shrimp that are firm to the touch, have a mild, oceanic smell (not “fishy”), and are translucent with a slight sheen. For convenience, frozen shrimp are often a great option, as they are typically flash-frozen shortly after being caught, preserving freshness.
• Size Matters: As mentioned in the ingredients, shrimp sizes vary (e.g., 13-15 count per pound for jumbo, 21-25 for medium-large). Larger shrimp offer a more substantial bite, while smaller ones cook faster. For scampi, a medium-large to large size works best, providing a good balance.
• Peeled and Deveined or Shell-On: While purchasing pre-cleaned, peeled, and deveined shrimp can save time, buying shell-on shrimp and cleaning them yourself often results in superior flavor and texture. The shells contribute to the shrimp’s natural flavor, and peeling them just before cooking ensures maximum freshness.
• Proper Thawing: Always thaw frozen shrimp safely. The best method is overnight in the refrigerator. For a quicker thaw, place sealed frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 15-30 minutes until thawed. Never use hot water, as it can partially cook the shrimp.
• Storing Shrimp: Shrimp are highly perishable. Store fresh or thawed shrimp in the coldest part of your refrigerator and cook them within 24 hours.

Recipe FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making baked shrimp scampi, along with helpful answers to ensure your success.

More Delicious Shrimp Recipes to Explore

Shrimp’s versatility and quick cooking time make it one of America’s favorite seafood choices. If you’ve enjoyed this baked scampi, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic shrimp recipes. And for those planning a barbecue, here are 25 terrific side dishes for serving with grilled shrimp.

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