Name: Shrimp Oreganata Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds (680g) colossal shrimp (cleaned, shells removed, and deveined – size 12-15ct); Salt and pepper (to taste); 3/4 cup (180g) low sodium chicken stock; 1/4 cup (60g) dry white wine; 1 large lemon (cut into wedges); 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter (cubed); 1/3 cup (33g) breadcrumbs; 3 tablespoons (45g) extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon (15g) lemon juice; 6 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons (16g) grated Parmigiano Reggiano; 2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf Italian parsley; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 3 tablespoons (45g) extra virgin olive oil (for sautéing garlic)

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 9 reviews

If you are craving a dish that effortlessly combines fresh seafood with a burst of zesty, herbaceous flavors, then this Shrimp Oreganata Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a classic, Italian-inspired recipe that showcases colossal shrimp topped with a fragrant breadcrumb mixture packed with garlic, oregano, and Parmigiano Reggiano, all baked to golden perfection. Every bite bursts with buttery richness, subtle heat from red pepper flakes, and brightness from fresh lemon, making it a standout meal for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises to impress with both its simplicity and its stunning flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate filled with many raw shrimp piled in the center, showing their greyish shell and pale flesh with tails attached, sits on the bottom right of a dark wooden cutting board. Surrounding the plate are several ingredients neatly arranged: a bunch of fresh green parsley on the top right, a bulb of white garlic next to a bright yellow lemon in the middle, two small metal bowls containing dried herbs and grated cheese to the right of the lemon, a stick of unsalted butter wrapped in paper above the lemon, a glass bowl filled with light brown breadcrumbs in the top left, a gray and black pepper grinder, a glass measuring cup with pale yellow lemon juice to the bottom left, and a glass container of light-colored cooking oil near the bottom left corner. The overall setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Shrimp Oreganata Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to add a key component—texture, depth, or brightness. From succulent shrimp to fragrant herbs and a touch of heat, each element plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors.

Colossal shrimp (1.5 pounds): Fresh and large shrimp provide the juicy centerpiece of the dish, with shells removed for ease of eating.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance and bring out the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
Extra virgin olive oil (6 tablespoons total): Used both for sautéing garlic and for drizzling over breadcrumbs to add richness and crispness.
Low sodium chicken stock (3/4 cup): Adds a savory base for the cooking liquid without overpowering the shrimp.
Dry white wine (1/4 cup): Gives a subtle acidity and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Lemon (1 large): Both juice and wedges bring freshness and a bright, citrusy contrast to the buttery shrimp.
Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons): Cubed and scattered over the shrimp to melt into a luxurious, rich sauce.
Breadcrumbs (1/3 cup): The cornerstone of the crisp topping that delivers irresistible texture.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Boosts the tangy notes in the breadcrumb mixture.
Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and pungent flavor.
Parmigiano Reggiano (2 tablespoons, grated): Adds nutty, salty complexity to the topping.
Flat-leaf Italian parsley (2 tablespoons, minced): Bright green herb that adds a fresh, slightly peppery note.
Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): The herb that gives this recipe its name, lending earthiness and warmth.
Crushed hot red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Optional but highly recommended for a gentle kick of heat.
Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and brings balance to the dish.

How to Make Shrimp Oreganata Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the seasoned breadcrumbs

Start by heating extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it gently sizzle for about 2 minutes until incredibly fragrant, but not browned. This step develops a lovely, mellow garlic flavor. Next, add the breadcrumbs, Parmigiano Reggiano, parsley, oregano, lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Stir everything together well and then turn off the heat while you prepare the shrimp. These flavorful breadcrumbs will become wonderfully crispy during baking.

Step 2: Get the shrimp ready

Preheat your oven to 425°F and position two racks: one in the middle and one near the top. Pat the colossal shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they bake perfectly instead of steaming, then season them generously with salt and pepper. Arrange the shrimp in an oven-safe baking dish or large pan with the tails pointed upwards for a visually appealing presentation. This arrangement also helps the shrimp cook evenly.

Step 3: Add the finishing touches and bake

Generously sprinkle the seasoned breadcrumb mixture over each shrimp, creating a flavorful crust that will brown beautifully. Pour the dry white wine and chicken stock evenly around the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy as they bake. Scatter the cubed unsalted butter over the shrimp and sauce, ensuring it melts and infuses everything with rich indulgence. Drizzle 1 to 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the breadcrumb topping, which encourages an irresistible crispy, golden finish. Bake the dish for 10 minutes to cook the shrimp through.

Step 4: Broil to a golden finish

After baking, slide the dish onto the top rack of your oven and broil for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely as the breadcrumbs turn a gorgeous golden brown and develop a satisfying crunch. This final step creates the signature crispy topping that makes the Shrimp Oreganata Recipe so special. Once browned, remove from the oven and prepare to serve immediately.

How to Serve Shrimp Oreganata Recipe

Two white baking dishes sit side by side on a dark wooden board, placed on a white marbled surface. Each dish holds a layer of large raw shrimp arranged in a circular pattern with tails pointing outward. The shrimp are topped with a rough, crumbly yellow seasoning mixed with green herbs. A woman's hand is seen pouring a light green liquid from a small glass cup onto the shrimp in the right dish. The scene is lit softly, highlighting the textures of the shrimp, herbs, and seasoning. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Lemon wedges are an absolute must when serving Shrimp Oreganata. Their tart juice cuts beautifully through the rich butter sauce and crispy topping, adding a fresh brightness with each squeeze. A sprinkle of additional fresh parsley on top also brings a pop of color and complements the herbaceous notes in the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Shrimp Oreganata Recipe shines alongside crusty Italian bread for dipping into the luscious buttery sauce left on the plate. For a more substantial meal, serve with a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a light pasta, such as angel hair or spaghetti aglio e olio, to soak up every last bit of the flavorful juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests even more? Try serving the shrimp piled high on a platter with fresh lemon halves and small bowls of extra sauce for dipping. You can also plate the shrimp over a bed of lightly sautéed spinach or serve individually on appetizer spoons for an elegant starter. The golden breadcrumb topping is so visually appealing that simple white plates really make the dish pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Shrimp Oreganata (though it rarely happens!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain the freshness of the shrimp and the crispness of the topping, although the breadcrumbs might soften slightly over time.

Freezing

Freezing is possible but not ideal for this recipe due to the delicate texture of cooked shrimp and the crispy breadcrumb crust. However, if you must, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw gently overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat Shrimp Oreganata without losing the crispy topping, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as this will soften the breadcrumbs and make the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Oreganata Recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent the topping from crisping properly.

What if I don’t have Parmigiano Reggiano?

Pecorino Romano or another hard, aged cheese like Grana Padano can be good substitutes, offering similar salty and nutty notes to complement the dish.

How spicy is this Shrimp Oreganata Recipe?

The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that trails behind the fresh herbs and buttery flavors. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference or omit it entirely.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure the chicken stock and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Is this Shrimp Oreganata Recipe suitable for entertaining?

Absolutely. It’s elegant yet easy to prepare, which makes it perfect for dinners with friends or family. The dramatic breadcrumb topping and rich sauce always garner compliments and make it a memorable dish.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Oreganata Recipe is a joyful celebration of fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat yet special enough to wow your guests. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the crunchy, buttery, tangy, and herb-infused deliciousness that makes this dish a true favorite. Once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!

Shrimp Oreganata Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need