There’s something so comforting about classic Italian-American dishes like Shrimp Oreganata. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy enough for a dinner party yet simple enough to whip up for a weeknight meal. Picture succulent shrimp nestled in a golden, garlicky breadcrumb topping, kissed with lemon and herbs, and baked to perfection. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and the irresistible aroma of garlic and oregano.

This recipe holds a special place in many Italian-American households, often making an appearance during the holiday season, especially on Christmas Eve as part of the Feast of the Seven Fishes. It’s a dish rooted in tradition, yet so versatile that it can become a new favorite at any table. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread for sopping up the buttery juices or pairing it with a side of spaghetti aglio e olio, Shrimp Oreganata is bound to impress.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this irresistible shrimp dish at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings or last-minute entertaining.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, parsley, oregano, and lemon creates a bright, savory flavor profile that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• Minimal Ingredients: With pantry staples and fresh shrimp, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish without complicated prep.
• Versatile and Customizable: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even served over pasta, Shrimp Oreganata fits seamlessly into any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

How to Make Shrimp Oreganata

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Shrimp Oreganata is easier than you think, even if you’re not a seasoned chef. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering dish in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Arrange them in a single layer in a baking dish, tails-on or tails-off depending on your preference. I like to leave the tails on for presentation, but you do you!

Step 2: Make the Oreganata Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Mix everything together, then stir in the melted butter, olive oil, and lemon zest. The mixture should be slightly damp and crumbly—perfect for spooning over the shrimp.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Using a spoon or your hands, generously sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp. Make sure each piece is coated evenly. Don’t skimp here—this golden topping is the star of the show!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If you want an extra crispy topping, pop the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, drizzle the shrimp with fresh lemon juice and garnish with additional parsley for a burst of color. Serve hot with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even over pasta for a heartier meal.

Helpful Tips

• Choose the Right Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this dish because they stay tender and juicy while holding up to the breadcrumb topping.
• Fresh is Best: Use fresh lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley for the brightest flavors. Dried herbs work in a pinch, but fresh ingredients make all the difference here.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the breadcrumb topping a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Don’t Overbake: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Pescatarian

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko.
• You can add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra savory kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 420mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using. This ensures they bake evenly and the breadcrumb topping adheres properly.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover Shrimp Oreganata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the melted butter with additional olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so good!), allow the shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain the crispy breadcrumb topping.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Shrimp Oreganata recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other Italian-inspired dishes:

• Classic Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi – A Buttery, Garlicky Delight!
• Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
• Baked Shrimp Toast

Conclusion

Shrimp Oreganata is one of those dishes that feels like a little slice of culinary heaven. It’s elegant yet simple, bursting with flavors that transport you straight to an Italian trattoria. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. It’s quick, it’s delicious, and it’s guaranteed to impress. Let me know how it turns out for you—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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