Baked shrimp scampi is quick and simple to prepare and cooks in just 8 minutes. These buttery, succulent shrimp work well as an appetizer, side, or main course. Serve with cilantro lime rice, angel hair pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
You don’t need a cast-iron skillet—any oven-safe dish will do. This recipe is very flexible: add spinach, cherry tomatoes, capers, or other ingredients you enjoy. It’s an easy weeknight, low-carb, and keto-friendly option. Omit crushed red pepper if you don’t like heat, or increase it if you prefer a spicier dish.
Ingredients
- Shrimp – Use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp for best results.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is recommended.
- Lemon juice – Juice of one lemon.
- Butter – Unsalted butter melted; add a pinch of salt if desired. Use salted butter if you prefer.
- Red crushed pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Do You Know When The Shrimp Is Fully Cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and are no longer translucent. They cook very quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.
What Happens If You Overcook The Shrimp?
Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and dry, losing their tender, juicy texture.
Can I Add White Wine?
Yes. If you like, add 1/4 cup of a dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio for extra flavor.
What To Do With Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the shrimp.
Baked Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb shrimp, raw, peeled, and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp red crushed pepper (optional)
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in an oven-safe baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper if using.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
- Pour the lemon-butter sauce evenly over the shrimp. Bake for 8 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp—do not use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe.
- Fresh garlic and generous seasoning with salt and pepper improve flavor.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.