Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Recipe for Dinner Tonight

Ah, shrimp scampi! Just the thought of it makes my mouth water. I remember the first time I tried it at a little Italian restaurant, and the garlicky aroma swept me off my feet. It was love at first bite! The vibrant flavors of garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley paired with the succulent shrimp made it unforgettable. Now, I’m here to share my easy baked shrimp scampi recipe, one that has earned a special place in my heart (and my dinner rotation)!

Every time I make this dish, it feels like a celebration at home. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it feels fancy without requiring a boatload of culinary skills (trust me, if I can do it, so can you!). Let’s dive right into the magic that is this easy baked shrimp scampi — perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests!

What’s in Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi?

Shrimp: The star of the show! I like to use large, fresh shrimp, preferably wild-caught if you can find them. If you go for frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them thoroughly!

Garlic: Oh, garlic! The aromatic hero of this dish. Fresh garlic makes the best impact, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will do, though the flavor won’t be quite as robust.

Butter: Because everything is better with butter! It adds a rich, creamy texture and balances the garlic perfectly. I generally use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness.

Olive Oil: A good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds depth and flavor, and also helps cook the shrimp perfectly.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness and acidity, which is key to cutting through the richness of the butter.

Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a lovely nuttiness. Can you ever have too much cheese? I think not!

Fresh Parsley: This lovely herb not only adds color but also a fresh taste that beautifully complements the dish.

Is Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi Good for You?

Let’s get real — while this dish is loaded with flavor, it’s also important to consider the health aspects. **Shrimp** is an excellent source of protein and low in calories, making it a solid choice if you’re looking to keep things light. Meanwhile, **garlic** has been linked to numerous health benefits, including boosting your immunity and lowering blood pressure. As for **olive oil**, it’s packed with heart-healthy fats, and a little bit of **lemon juice** can help with digestion.

However, we must remember that this recipe does use **butter**, which, while delicious, is high in saturated fats. Moderation is key! Additionally, if you’re watching your sodium intake, you may want to go easy on the **Parmesan cheese** or use a lower-sodium alternative.

Ingredients

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, minced (or more if you’re feeling adventurous!)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Lemon wedges for serving

This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a small dinner gathering or a lovely family meal.

How to Make Easy Baked Shrimp Scampi?

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted **butter**, **olive oil**, **garlic**, and **lemon juice**. Stir well to combine all those luscious flavors.
3. Add the **shrimp** to the bowl, tossing them in the mixture until they’re fully coated. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
4. Transfer the shrimp and everything in the bowl into a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the **Parmesan cheese** on top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
6. Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with **fresh parsley**. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!

Delicious Tips for Baked Shrimp Scampi

– If you want to make this dish even more special, consider adding some cherry tomatoes or a handful of spinach for a pop of color and additional flavor.
– Don’t skip out on the fresh parsley, as it really elevates the dish. If you have trouble finding fresh parsley, you could use a bit of dried, but fresh is always best!
– For an extra touch, crusty bread is a delightful accompaniment to soak up all that garlicky, buttery goodness. Nothing goes to waste when you’ve got a piece of that bread on hand!

I genuinely hope you give this easy baked shrimp scampi a try. It’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen smell divine and brings people together, whether you’re having a quiet dinner or hosting friends. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t hesitate to drop a comment and share your experience! Happy cooking!

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