Go Back
A close-up of baked shrimp scampi with lemon slices and fresh herbs in a white baking dish.

Baked Italian Shrimp with Garlic Butter

Succulent large shrimp are quickly baked in a rich, aromatic garlic-herb butter sauce, infused with Italian flavors and a hint of lemon. This incredibly easy and flavorful dish makes for an impressive appetizer or a delightful main course.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1.5 lbs large shrimp peeled, deveined, tail-on (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
  • 1/2 tsp salt sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 6 cloves fresh garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or chicken broth for alcohol-free option
For Serving
  • 1 lemon cut into wedges
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Garlic press

Method
 

Prepare the Shrimp
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. In a medium mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper until evenly coated.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter.
  2. Add the minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh oregano (or dried Italian seasoning), and red pepper flakes to the melted butter. Stir well to combine.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and dry white wine (or chicken broth).
Combine and Bake
  1. Pour the prepared garlic butter sauce over the seasoned shrimp in the mixing bowl. Toss gently until all the shrimp are thoroughly coated.
  2. Transfer the shrimp and all the sauce to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading them in a single layer as much as possible.
  3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and pink, just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery quickly.
Serve
  1. Remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish generously with additional fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce, pasta, or rice.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, you can broil the shrimp for the last 1-2 minutes to get a slight char on the edges, watching carefully to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but are best enjoyed fresh.