Sheet Pan Shrimp Scampi is a quick and tasty dish, bringing together juicy shrimp, fresh garlic, and a sprinkle of lemon. Plus, everything cooks on one pan—easy clean-up!
This meal makes me feel like a chef without the fuss! I love to serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious butter-garlic sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp is key for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp works too; just make sure to thaw them completely before using. I often go for shrimp with the shells on to save a bit of money, but make sure to peel and devein them!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best since it allows you to control the salt level in your dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil is a fantastic substitute and adds a nice flavor. I sometimes use a mix of both for richness and health.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor that’s hard to beat. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove), but fresh is always preferred for this dish. I like to keep pre-minced garlic in my fridge for convenience!
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference! If you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave it out or use a pinch of smoked paprika for a different flavor. I enjoy a good kick, so I usually add a little extra!
Fresh Parsley: This adds fresh flavor and color. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or basil would work too! I grow my own herbs, and it really enhances the freshness of dishes.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp is quick, but timing is key to avoiding rubbery seafood. Here are steps to help you get it just right:
- Before cooking, make sure the shrimp are fully thawed if frozen. Leave them out in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes if necessary.
- Preheat your oven properly to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Spread the shrimp out in a single layer on the pan. Crowding them will cause steaming, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Keep a close eye on them! Bake for 8-10 minutes or until they are pink and opaque—overcooking can happen quickly.
How to Make Sheet Pan Shrimp Scampi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. That means you’ll have a tasty meal on the table in just 25 minutes! It’s quick, easy, and super delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your shrimp bake perfectly. While the oven is heating, you can prepare the other ingredients!
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a large bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave for about 30 seconds or on the stovetop in a small pan. Once melted, add in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and fragrant.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the garlic butter mixture. Toss the shrimp well until they are evenly coated in all that yummy garlic goodness.
4. Arrange on the Sheet Pan:
Take a large sheet pan and spread the shrimp out in a single layer. Make sure to arrange the lemon slices on top of the shrimp; they will add a burst of flavor as they bake!
5. Bake the Shrimp:
Place the sheet pan in your preheated oven. Bake the shrimp for about 8-10 minutes. They are ready when they turn pink and opaque—this is a good sign they are cooked through!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp for a fresh touch. Serve your delicious shrimp scampi hot, alongside cooked pasta or some crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen shrimp, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw shrimp quickly, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture on the sheet pan.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free or are simply out of butter, you can substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Olive oil will give a lighter flavor, while vegan butter can closely mimic the richness of traditional butter. Use the same amount as specified in the recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp again, as they can become tough!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, adding vegetables can enhance the meal! Cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or bell peppers are great choices. Just toss them in with the shrimp, or place them around the shrimp on the sheet pan. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly; cook until the vegetables are tender and the shrimp are fully cooked.
