1-Preparation Phase: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving a golden brown crust on the breadcrumb topping while keeping the shrimp tender and juicy. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with a small amount of olive oil. Choose an oven-safe dish that’s large enough to hold all the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding, as this ensures even cooking.

2-Preparation Phase: Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This step might seem minor, but it’s essential for several reasons. Dry shrimp will sear better, hold onto the breadcrumb topping more effectively, and won’t steam in the oven. Once dry, season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper on both sides. This initial seasoning builds flavor from the inside out.

3-Creating the Breadcrumb Topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup breadcrumbs, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 6 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons grated cheese, 2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Mix everything thoroughly until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened and all the ingredients are well distributed.

4-Creating the Breadcrumb Topping: The mixture should be slightly damp but not wet. If it seems too dry, add another teaspoon of olive oil. If it’s too wet, add another tablespoon of breadcrumbs. The consistency is important because you want the topping to adhere to the shrimp while still becoming crispy in the oven.

5-Assembling the Dish: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re not touching too much, as this allows the heat to circulate evenly around each shrimp. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each piece of shrimp, pressing gently to help it adhere. Don’t worry if some of the topping falls between the shrimp, as this will add flavor to the sauce.

6-Assembling the Dish: Pour 3/4 cup of low-sodium chicken stock around the shrimp, avoiding pouring it directly over the breadcrumb topping. If using the optional white wine, add 1/4 cup now as well. This liquid creates a flavorful base that will steam the shrimp slightly while the oven heat crisps the topping.

7-Assembling the Dish: Scatter 6 tablespoons of cubed unsalted butter over the shrimp. The butter will melt during cooking, adding richness to the sauce and helping the breadcrumbs brown. Finally, drizzle 1 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the entire dish, focusing on the breadcrumb topping to promote even browning.

8-Baking and Finishing: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for exactly 10 minutes. The high heat will quickly cook the shrimp while creating a golden crust on the topping. After 10 minutes, switch your oven to the broiler setting and broil for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely during this time, as the breadcrumbs can go from golden to burnt very quickly.

9-Baking and Finishing: The shrimp are done when they’re pink and opaque throughout, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.