Description
Shrimp Oreganata is a classic Italian-American baked seafood dish featuring succulent large shrimp topped with a flavorful mixture of seasoned Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, garlic, oregano, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Drizzled with olive oil and brightened with lemon juice, this easy-to-make recipe results in a golden, crisp crust and tender shrimp, perfect as an appetizer or main course served with lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Topping
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 1/2 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the shrimp immediately.
- Prepare Topping Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the seasoned Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon until the mixture is evenly moistened to form a flavorful, cohesive topping.
- Arrange Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer, cut side up, in a baking dish. This arrangement ensures even cooking and helps the topping adhere well.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each shrimp, distributing it carefully for maximum coverage and flavor.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the shrimp to help crisp the topping and add rich flavor during baking.
- Bake Shrimp: Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the topping becomes golden brown and crisp.
- Optional Broiling: For an extra crunchy topping, broil the shrimp for the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the shrimp for bright, fresh acidity.
Notes
- This dish can be served as an appetizer or a main course depending on portion size.
- For extra crunchiness, place the shrimp under the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Pairs wonderfully with pasta, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up any flavorful juices.
