Name: Shrimp Scampi Bake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds medium raw shrimp, shelled, deveined, with tails attached; 1 cup butter; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped garlic; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Introduction to Shrimp Scampi Bake

Are you looking for a deliciously satisfying dinner option that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor? Look no further than shrimp scampi bake. This delectable dish combines succulent shrimp with a buttery, garlicky sauce that comes together in just 40 minutes - making it perfect for busy weeknights or easy get-togethers with friends.

Why Choose Shrimp Scampi Bake for Dinner?

Shrimp scampi bake is a fantastic choice for several reasons:

Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already. Just grab some medium raw shrimp, butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a gourmet meal in under an hour.
Impressive Presentation: When your friends see a bubbling dish of shrimp, they're sure to be impressed! The golden shrimp, coated in a rich sauce, make it a showstopper at any gathering.

Plus, if you want to dive deeper into the history of shrimp scampi and its cultural roots, check out this informative piece from SeafoodSource.

Ready to elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi Bake

Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Dish

Creating a delicious Shrimp Scampi Bake starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 pounds medium raw shrimp: Make sure they are shelled and deveined for easy cooking.
1 cup butter: For that rich, buttery flavor that coats the shrimp beautifully.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: This adds a zesty kick to the sauce.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and gives a refreshing touch.
1 tablespoon chopped garlic: Because garlic is the heart of any savory dish.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: This adds color and a hint of freshness to the bake.

These core ingredients come together to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two.

Optional Add-ins to Elevate the Recipe

Want to take your shrimp scampi bake to the next level? Consider adding:

Crushed red pepper flakes: For a little heat, depending on your spice preference.
Cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the richness of the dish.
Panko breadcrumbs: Sprinkle on top for a crunchy texture contrast that’s simply irresistible.

Feel free to mix and match these add-ins based on your taste and what you have on hand!

Looking for more inspiration on how to customize your shrimp? Check out The Spruce Eats for tips on ingredient variations!

Preparing Shrimp Scampi Bake

Creating a shrimp scampi bake is an easy yet impressive way to enjoy a delightful meal with friends or family. With just a few key steps, you’ll be well on your way to a delectable dish that certainly steals the show. Here's how to prepare it!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. This will ensure you stay organized and can whip it all together without any interruptions. For this shrimp scampi bake, you’ll need:

2 pounds medium raw shrimp (shelled and deveined, tails attached)
1 cup butter
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard for that zesty kick
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors
1 tablespoon chopped garlic, because who doesn’t love that aromatic touch?
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

If you want to add more flavor, consider tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Remember to check out places like California Sea Grant for tips on selecting fresh shrimp, as optimal ingredients lead to the best results!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Bake Dish

Once you’ve accumulated your ingredients, it’s time to set the scene. Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius). While the oven heats up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This ensures your shrimp scampi bake won’t stick, making for easy serving and cleanup. Plus, there’s nothing worse than losing delicious bites to the dish!

Whisk Together the Sauce Ingredients

Next up, let’s create that delectable sauce! In a small saucepan, combine the butter, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and chopped parsley. Heat over medium until the butter melts fully. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and give it a good whisk to blend all those flavors beautifully. This sauce is the heart of your shrimp scampi bake, and it’s where the magic happens.

Arrange the Shrimp for Baking

With your oven preheated and sauce ready, it’s time to arrange the shrimp. Lay the shrimp in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. This ensures even cooking and that each shrimp gets its fair share of that delicious buttery sauce. You want these beauties to soak up all that flavor!

Pour Sauce Over the Shrimp and Bake

Now, it’s time for the grand finale! Pour the sauce over the arranged shrimp, making sure to coat them all generously. Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let the magic happen. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. The aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner!

And there you have it—an easy guide to preparing a fantastic shrimp scampi bake! For more delicious seafood recipes, check out resources like Seafood Nutrition and discover new ways to enjoy seafood at home!

Variations on Shrimp Scampi Bake

If you love the classic shrimp scampi bake, you’ll appreciate these fun variations that pack additional flavor!

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Scampi Bake

Brighten up your dish with a zestier twist! In this version, simply add the zest of two lemons to the butter mixture before pouring it over the shrimp. The lemon zest enhances the dish, offering a refreshing brightness that complements the garlic beautifully. You can find more tips for using lemon in cooking at Food Network.

Spicy Shrimp Scampi Bake

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the buttery mix. This fiery addition elevates the shrimp scampi bake to a new level, providing that perfect kick. Combine it with some finely chopped jalapeños for an extra spice punch, and check out Spicy Food Lovers for more inspiration!

These variations are not just tasty; they’re also simple to make and can easily impress your friends!

Cooking Tips for Shrimp Scampi Bake

Ensuring Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

The key to a delicious shrimp scampi bake is cooking the shrimp just right. Look for shrimp that are firm and pink, and remember they only need about 12 to 15 minutes in the oven. To ensure they’re perfectly cooked, check for an opaque color and a slight curl. Under-cooking a bit is better than overcooking; they’ll continue to cook a little after you take them out, thanks to the residual heat.

How to Customize the Flavor Profile

Feel free to get creative! Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat or toss in some cherry tomatoes for a fresh burst. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can also elevate your dish. If you love citrus, a little zest from a lemon can brighten the flavors even more. Personalizing your shrimp scampi bake can make it a special dish that reflects your taste! For more inspiration, check out cooking blogs like Serious Eats for unique twists.

Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Scampi Bake

Ideal Side Dishes to Complement the Dish

To enhance your shrimp scampi bake, consider pairing it with light and refreshing sides. Here are some delicious options:

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce.
Roasted Asparagus: Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color, achieving a great balance.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing elevates the meal while keeping it light.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

To round out your dining experience, think about a delightful beverage. A chilled sparkling water infused with lemon will complement the dish beautifully, allowing the flavors of the shrimp scampi bake to shine. For dessert, a light sorbet or a fruit tart can provide a satisfying yet refreshing finish to your meal.

By thoughtfully selecting these pairings, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that everyone will love! For more tips on side dishes, check out Food Network's ideas.

Time Breakdown for Shrimp Scampi Bake

Preparation Time

Getting started on your shrimp scampi bake is a breeze! You’ll need about 25 minutes to prep everything, which includes gathering ingredients and doing a little chopping. Enjoy this time as a moment to unwind before dinner.

Cooking Time

Once you've prepped, it’s time to bake! The cooking process takes roughly 15 minutes. Just pop that baking dish into the oven and let the magic happen!

Total Time

In just 40 minutes, from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious dish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy gathering with friends!

For more time-saving cooking tips and delicious recipes, check out Allrecipes for inspiration.

Nutritional Facts for Shrimp Scampi Bake

Calories Per Serving

Each serving of this delightful shrimp scampi bake contains approximately 330 calories. It’s an excellent choice for a satisfying meal without guilt!

Key Nutritional Components

When you dig into this dish, you'll benefit from a variety of nutrients, including:

Total Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 15g)
Cholesterol: 234mg
Sodium: 426mg
Total Carbohydrate: 2g
Protein: 23g

With good protein content and a dose of vitamins, this dish provides a flavorful way to enjoy seafood. For additional insights into the nutritional benefits of shrimp, check out resources from the Mayo Clinic and USDA FoodData Central. It’s a delicious way to treat your tastebuds while staying mindful of your health!

FAQs about Shrimp Scampi Bake

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen shrimp is a convenient option. Just be sure to thaw them completely before baking your shrimp scampi bake. This can be done overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in cold water for about 30 minutes. Thawing helps ensure that the shrimp cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors.

What can I serve with Shrimp Scampi Bake?

There are plenty of tasty sides that pair well with your shrimp scampi bake. Consider serving it with:

Garlic bread: A classic that’s perfect for soaking up that rich buttery sauce.
Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus add a vibrant touch and are nutritious.
Rice or quinoa: These grains can help balance the meal and soak up excess sauce.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Want to turn up the heat? Here are some simple ideas to spice up your shrimp scampi bake:

Add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture before pouring it over the shrimp.
Toss in finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers for a fresh kick.
Finish with a drizzle of hot sauce once it’s out of the oven for a zesty touch.

These tweaks will elevate the flavor profile while keeping it approachable for your dinner guests!

For more tips on enhancing flavors, check out this article from Allrecipes.

Conclusion on Shrimp Scampi Bake

In summary, this shrimp scampi bake is not just a delicious reinterpretation of a classic dish—it’s also incredibly easy to prepare for any occasion. With its buttery, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, this recipe is bound to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a touch of culinary magic!