Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw them first, preferably overnight in the refrigerator, and then pat them very dry with paper towels. Excess moisture from frozen shrimp can make your dish watery, so this drying step is crucial for best results.

I don't have sherry at home. What can I substitute?

Dry white wine works beautifully as a substitute. In a pinch, you could use chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice, though you'll lose some of the depth of flavor that sherry provides. Avoid cooking sherry, which contains added salt and preservatives.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?

You can prepare all components separately ahead of time - clean the shrimp, mix the herbs, and prepare the breadcrumb topping. Store everything separately in the refrigerator. When guests arrive, simply assemble and bake. This dish is best served fresh from the oven when the breadcrumbs are at their crispiest.

How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Perfectly cooked shrimp have turned from translucent gray to an opaque pink color and have just curled into a loose "C" shape. If they've tightened into an "O" shape, they're likely overcooked. For this dish, check at the 10-minute mark by cutting into one shrimp to ensure it's opaque throughout.

Baked Shrimp with Breadcrumbs Recipe

Name: Baked Shrimp with Breadcrumbs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 pounds jumbo shrimp (21 to 25 per pound), shelled, deveined, and tails removed; 1 shallot, chopped (2 1/2 to 3 tablespoons); 2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon; 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh ground pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons butter, melted; 1/4 cup dry sherry; 1 tablespoon capers, drained; 1/2 cup homemade or panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian (flat leaf) parsley; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1 tablespoon butter, melted

This Baked Shrimp with Breadcrumbs is a seafood lover’s dream come true – tender jumbo shrimp nestled under a crispy, herb-infused breadcrumb topping that turns golden in the oven. Ready in just 20 minutes, this impressive dish combines simple ingredients with maximum flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions when you want something that feels fancy without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Elegant: Goes from prep to table in just 20 minutes, yet looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh herbs, sherry, and lemon creates a sophisticated taste profile that elevates simple shrimp to restaurant quality.
Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce – it works beautifully as both a casual family dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
Minimal Cleanup: Everything bakes in one dish, meaning less time washing up and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Jumbo Shrimp: The star of the show! Their substantial size allows them to stand up to baking without overcooking. Make sure they’re properly deveined and shelled for the best eating experience.
Shallot: Provides a milder, more delicate flavor than regular onions, adding aromatic depth without overpowering the shrimp.
Fresh Tarragon: Brings a distinctive anise-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with seafood. Its subtle sweetness perfectly complements the shrimp.
Dried Marjoram: Adds a gentle pine and citrus note that enhances the other herbs without stealing the spotlight.
Butter: Creates richness in both the sauce and the crispy topping. Don’t skimp here – it’s essential for flavor.
Dry Sherry: Adds complexity and a touch of sweetness to the sauce. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind wonderful flavor.
Capers: These briny little gems provide pops of salt and brightness throughout the dish.
Breadcrumbs: The foundation for our crispy topping. Homemade gives a rustic texture, while panko provides maximum crunch.
Fresh Parsley: Brings color and a fresh, herbaceous quality to the breadcrumb topping.
Lemon Zest: Provides bright, citrusy notes that cut through the richness and wake up all the flavors.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Mediterranean Version

Swap the tarragon for fresh dill, add some crumbled feta cheese to the breadcrumb mixture, and throw in some halved cherry tomatoes before baking.

Spicy Kick

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp mixture and mix some grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for a spicy-cheesy variation.

Garlic Lover’s Dream

Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves to the shrimp mixture and mix some finely grated garlic into the breadcrumb topping.

White Wine Alternative

Replace the sherry with a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio if that’s what you have on hand.

How to Make Baked Shrimp with Breadcrumbs

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly butter a shallow 2.5 to 3-quart baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor to the exterior of your dish.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Rinse and thoroughly pat dry your shrimp – this is crucial for proper browning. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with chopped shallots, tarragon, and marjoram. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper, tossing everything to ensure even coating.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a small pan or microwave, then stir in the dry sherry. Pour this luxurious mixture over your seasoned shrimp and toss until every piece is glistening with the buttery sauce.

Step 4: Arrange and Add Capers

Spread the shrimp mixture in a single layer in your prepared baking dish – crowding will lead to steaming rather than baking. Sprinkle the capers evenly across the top, ensuring these flavorful bites will be distributed throughout the finished dish.

Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine your breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and lemon zest. Using your hands to mix ensures the lemon zest distributes evenly instead of clumping. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the remaining tablespoon of melted butter until the mixture feels like damp sand.

Step 6: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, creating a light blanket rather than a heavy layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the breadcrumbs begin to brown. For an extra-golden top, switch to broil for the final 1-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook extremely quickly – they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
Pat Dry: Always thoroughly dry your shrimp with paper towels before seasoning. This removes excess moisture that would make your dish watery.
Room Temperature: Let your shrimp sit out for 10 minutes before cooking for more even baking.
Uniform Size: Try to use shrimp that are all similar in size to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Hand-Mix the Breadcrumbs: Using your fingers to mix the lemon zest into the breadcrumbs breaks up any clumps for perfect distribution.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This shrimp dish shines when served over angel hair pasta tossed with a little olive oil, garlic, and parsley. The pasta soaks up the buttery sherry sauce beautifully. Alternatively, serve over fluffy white rice or with crusty bread for dipping.

Side Dishes

Balance the richness with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus. A side of sautéed spinach with garlic also complements the flavors wonderfully.

Wine Pairing

This dish calls for a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay that won’t overpower the delicate shrimp flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing Components Ahead

You can prepare the breadcrumb mixture up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp can be cleaned and seasoned a few hours ahead, but don’t add the butter-sherry mixture until just before baking.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked shrimp will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The breadcrumbs won’t stay crispy, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a 300°F oven just until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shrimp tough.

Note: This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the contrast between the tender shrimp and crispy topping is at its peak.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw them first, preferably overnight in the refrigerator, and then pat them very dry with paper towels. Excess moisture from frozen shrimp can make your dish watery, so this drying step is crucial for best results.
I don’t have sherry at home. What can I substitute?

Dry white wine works beautifully as a substitute. In a pinch, you could use chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice, though you’ll lose some of the depth of flavor that sherry provides. Avoid cooking sherry, which contains added salt and preservatives.
Can I make this dish ahead of time for a dinner party?

You can prepare all components separately ahead of time – clean the shrimp, mix the herbs, and prepare the breadcrumb topping. Store everything separately in the refrigerator. When guests arrive, simply assemble and bake. This dish is best served fresh from the oven when the breadcrumbs are at their crispiest.
How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Perfectly cooked shrimp have turned from translucent gray to an opaque pink color and have just curled into a loose “C” shape. If they’ve tightened into an “O” shape, they’re likely overcooked. For this dish, check at the 10-minute mark by cutting into one shrimp to ensure it’s opaque throughout.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Shrimp with Breadcrumbs transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. The combination of buttery shrimp, aromatic herbs, and that irresistible crispy topping creates a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or entertaining friends, this 20-minute wonder never fails to impress. The next time you’re standing in front of the seafood counter wondering what to make, remember this recipe – your future self will thank you!