Panko Shrimp and Feta Bake Recipe

Description

This Panko Shrimp and Feta Bake is a Mediterranean-inspired dish combining juicy shrimp, tangy feta cheese, and a golden, crunchy panko topping. The shrimp are baked in a savory tomato-garlic sauce, layered with crumbles of feta, and finished with crispy panko breadcrumbs for an irresistible flavor and texture contrast. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Ingredients For Panko Shrimp and Feta Bake Recipe

  • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp dried basil (or fresh if available)

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Prepare sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (about 3–4 min). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 8–10 minutes until thickened.

  3. Assemble bake: Spread the sauce into a greased baking dish. Arrange shrimp evenly on top. Sprinkle with crumbled feta.

  4. Make topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over the shrimp and feta.

  5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, until shrimp are pink and the panko is golden brown.

  6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • You can use fresh or frozen shrimp (just thaw well).

  • For extra richness, add a splash of white wine to the tomato sauce while simmering.

  • If you like spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.

  • Feta cheese adds a tangy flavor, but you can substitute with goat cheese or ricotta for a milder version.

Tips

  • Serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

  • Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

  • For a lower-carb option, serve with zucchini noodles instead of pasta or rice.

  • Toast the panko in a skillet for an even crispier topping before adding it to the dish.

Servings

Serves 4 people

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 320

  • Protein: 27g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 4g

  • Sodium: 640mg

Benefits

  • High protein from shrimp helps muscle repair and satiety.

  • Feta cheese adds calcium for bone health.

  • Tomato-based sauce is rich in antioxidants like lycopene.

  • Panko topping provides texture without deep frying, making it lighter.

Q & A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and assemble just before baking. Don’t bake the shrimp too early, as they can become rubbery.

Q2: What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, couscous, or a simple salad.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q4: Can I use another protein instead of shrimp?
Absolutely — chicken breast chunks or firm white fish (like cod) also work well.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven.

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