Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi: No Rubbery Shrimp!

Craving that classic shrimp scampi flavor but want an easier, less fussy way to get it on the table? Say hello to Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi! This recipe takes the guesswork out of cooking shrimp, ensuring every bite is perfectly tender and bursting with garlicky, cheesy goodness. Forget about rubbery shrimp forever; this baked version is a game-changer. It’s so easy, even weeknights feel a little more special.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Shrimp Scampi

This isn’t your average shrimp recipe. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

• No More Rubbery Shrimp: Our secret par-cooking method guarantees perfectly cooked, succulent shrimp every time.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking means less stovetop mess and easier cleanup.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors that everyone will love.
• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Cheesy Shrimp Scampi

This cheesy baked shrimp scampi recipe relies on a few key ingredients to deliver its signature flavor. The balance of fresh herbs, quality cheese, and that all-important garlic butter sauce creates a truly unforgettable dish. Let’s explore each ingredient and why it matters.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for shrimp that are firm and smell fresh. Size matters! Large shrimp are ideal because they retain moisture better during baking. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined to save you time and effort.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Butter is the foundation of our rich and flavorful sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that classic scampi flavor. Don’t skimp on the garlic!
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: While some scampi recipes use a dry ingredient here, chicken broth adds a touch of moisture and depth of flavor. It complements the shrimp beautifully and helps create a luscious sauce.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste. Freshly grated is always best for optimal flavor and texture.
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs: Bread crumbs provide a delightful textural contrast, adding a bit of crunch to the dish. Use plain bread crumbs for best results; avoid seasoned varieties.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color. Its herbaceous notes complement the other flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible cheesy topping. It melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture to the dish.

Crafting Your Cheesy Shrimp Scampi: Step-by-Step

Ready to create some shrimp scampi magic? This recipe is surprisingly easy, but the secret to avoiding rubbery shrimp lies in our par-cooking technique. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying perfectly cooked, cheesy shrimp scampi in no time!

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Getting the oven preheated ensures that the cheese melts evenly and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a flavorful and evenly distributed sauce.
3. Par-cook the shrimp: This is the most important step! Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sear on both sides for just 2-3 minutes. The goal isn’t to fully cook the shrimp, just to give them a head start and prevent them from becoming rubbery in the oven. They should turn pink but still be slightly translucent in the center.
4. Arrange the shrimp: Place the seared shrimp in a baking dish, making sure they are in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to coat each shrimp properly.
5. Pour on the flavor: Pour the butter and breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp, ensuring each shrimp is generously coated. This will create a delicious crust and infuse the shrimp with flavor.
6. Cheese it up: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the shrimp. Don’t be shy with the cheese; it’s what makes this dish extra special!
7. Bake to perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Keep a close eye on the shrimp to prevent overbaking. Remember, overcooked shrimp are rubbery shrimp!
8. Garnish and serve: Garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Every Time

Want to take your Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi to the next level? Here are a few extra tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time:

• Don’t Overcook: This is the golden rule! Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them in the oven. Overcooked shrimp are tough and rubbery.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese will make a world of difference in the flavor of your scampi.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a little extra heat.
• Add a squeeze of lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Simply substitute the regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

What to Serve With Cheesy Shrimp Scampi

Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Crusty Bread: For soaking up all that delicious garlic butter sauce, crusty bread is a must.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the scampi. Consider a vegetable rice pilaf for a more substantial side dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers make a healthy and flavorful accompaniment. You could also try our roasted sweet potato chicken power bowl recipe for something heartier.

Your Cheesy Shrimp Scampi Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help them sear properly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While the shrimp is best served immediately, you can prepare the butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply par-cook the shrimp and proceed with the recipe.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

Water can be used in place of chicken broth if needed. It won’t have the same depth of flavor, but it will still work.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Garlic can burn easily, so be sure to keep a close eye on it while it’s cooking. If you notice it starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat or add a splash of chicken broth to the pan.

Enjoy Your Homemade Cheesy Shrimp Scampi!

There you have it! A foolproof recipe for Cheesy Baked Shrimp Scampi that guarantees perfectly cooked, tender shrimp every time. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a ticket to a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Now, go ahead and give it a try. We know you’ll love it! Don’t forget to leave a comment and let us know how it turned out. Share your creation on social media and inspire others to try this amazing recipe!