There’s something irresistibly delightful about the crunch of crispy baked calamari that can transform any ordinary meal into a culinary celebration. One rainy evening, with the craving for something exciting yet comforting, I found myself rummaging through the pantry and stumbled across a stash of calamari frozen solid. Little did I know that this squid gem would pave the way for a dish that’s not only easy to whip up but also brimming with bold flavors.
Using simple ingredients like zesty lemon, savory garlic, and a hint of heat from pickled cherry peppers, this recipe infuses freshness with every tender bite. The golden breadcrumbs, kissed with grated Pecorino Romano cheese, offer the perfect crunch that pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, my crispy baked calamari is sure to impress and, best of all, it doesn’t involve deep-frying! Grab your aprons, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why is Crispy Baked Calamari a Must-Try?
Deliciously Crunchy: The crispy texture comes from a perfect blend of breadcrumbs and cheese, providing an irresistible crunch with every bite.
Quick Cooking: With just 15 to 20 minutes in the oven, you can serve a gourmet dish without a lengthy wait.
Flavor Explosion: Zesty lemon and spicy pickled peppers elevate the taste, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both satisfying and unique.
Versatile Option: Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or even as a fun snack while entertaining—everyone will be begging for more!
Easily Adaptable: If you’re looking for something different, try it with a side of homemade marinara sauce for dipping, making it a real crowd-pleaser.
Crispy Baked Calamari Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend of flavors in this irresistible dish!
For the Calamari
- 2 pounds cleaned calamari rings and tentacles – Look for fresh calamari for the best taste and texture.
For the Breadcrumb Mixture
- 1¼ cups plain fine breadcrumbs – These create that crunchy layer we’re all after.
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese – Adds a savory depth to the crispy baked calamari.
For the Marinade
- Zest and Juice of 1 lemon – Brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus kick.
- ½ cup finely diced hot or sweet pickled cherry peppers – Infuses a delightful heat and tanginess.
- 1 Tbsp vinegar cherry pepper brine – Enhances the flavor of the marinaded calamari.
- 6 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Keeps everything moist and adds richness.
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley – Offers a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated – Brings aromatic goodness to the party!
For Seasoning
- 1 tsp fine salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper – Adds a subtle warmth to the dish.
- ½ tsp garlic powder – Elevates the garlic flavor throughout.
- ½ tsp onion powder – Complements the garlic for a robust taste.
- ½ tsp dried oregano – Introduces a hint of earthiness that balances the dish.
- ½ tsp paprika or cayenne pepper – Use paprika for mild flavor or cayenne for an extra kick!
For Serving
- Heated Marinara/Tomato Basil Sauce (optional) – Perfect for dipping, enhancing those flavors even more.
- Lemon wedges (optional) – A squeeze of lemon elevates the taste even further!
How to Make Crispy Baked Calamari
-
Preheat the oven: Place one oven rack on the bottom rung and another under the broiler. Preheat your oven to 425˚F and line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper, gently rubbing it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
-
Prepare the calamari: If using frozen calamari, be sure to defrost it completely. Pat it dry with paper towels, ensuring it’s moisture-free to achieve that crispy texture later on.
-
Mix the breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the fine breadcrumbs and grated Pecorino Romano cheese, creating a delightful mixture that adds flavor and crunch to your calamari. Set aside.
-
Create the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest, diced pickled cherry peppers and brine, extra virgin olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and all the spices. Stir until fully combined for an aromatic marinade.
-
Marinate the calamari: Gently fold the calamari rings and tentacles into the marinade, mixing until well-coated. Allow it to marinate for about 5 minutes to absorb those fabulous flavors.
-
Combine breadcrumbs with calamari: Set aside about ⅓ cup of the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Now mix the remaining breadcrumbs with the marinated calamari, ensuring they are fully coated for that perfect crunch.
-
Arrange on the pan: Transfer the calamari to the oiled, parchment-lined sheet pan in a single layer. If needed, use two sheet pans to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
-
Add topping: Sprinkle the reserved ⅓ cup of breadcrumb mixture over the calamari. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to help achieve that golden-brown finish.
-
Roast the calamari: Place the pan in your preheated oven and roast the calamari for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness after 10 minutes—the calamari is ready when it’s tender and the breadcrumbs are beautifully golden brown.
-
Optional broil: If you’d like an extra crunch, broil for 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
-
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked to perfection, remove the calamari from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Serve with lemon wedges and warm marinara sauce for that delightful dipping experience, if desired.
Optional: Garnish with more fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Calamari
Dry Well: Ensuring the calamari is patted dry will help achieve that crispy texture, preventing excess moisture from steaming it during cooking.
Coat Evenly: Make sure to coat the calamari evenly with the breadcrumb mixture for a consistent crunch that enhances the overall appearance and flavor.
Oven Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the calamari while roasting, especially in the final minutes, to avoid overcooking or burning those precious breadcrumbs.
Try It with Marinara: Serving crispy baked calamari with heated marinara not only elevates the dish but also adds a delightful contrast of flavors; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Broil for Extra Crunch: If you want an extra crispy finish, use the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning—it’s worth it!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Baked Calamari are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the calamari rings and tentacles in the flavorful mixture of lemon, pickled peppers, and spices up to 24 hours in advance, keeping everything refrigerated. The breadcrumb and cheese mixture can also be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container for 3 days without losing its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the marinated calamari with the breadcrumbs, arrange them on a sheet pan, and proceed to roast. This way, you’ll enjoy your delicious calamari just as fresh and flavorful as if you made it on the day!
What to Serve with Crispy Baked Calamari?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this crunchy delight with complementary sides and flavors that awaken your taste buds.
-
Garlic Aioli: This creamy dip adds a rich and garlicky vibe, enhancing the calamari’s flavors beautifully. Try a homemade version for an even greater touch!
-
Zesty Coleslaw: The crunch of fresh cabbage and a tangy dressing contrasts perfectly with the crispy texture of the calamari. It adds a refreshing element to every bite.
-
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, this salad brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with the calamari.
-
Lemon Garlic Pasta: The light, aromatic pasta with hints of garlic and lemon complements the savory calamari without overshadowing it, creating a well-rounded meal.
-
Grilled Asparagus: Tender, charred asparagus drizzled with olive oil and lemon adds elegance and a fresh contrast to the main dish.
-
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio elevates the dining experience, perfectly balancing the seafood’s rich flavors.
-
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate mousse that finishes the meal with a touch of sweetness, leaving your guests delighted.
Crispy Baked Calamari Variations
Elevate your culinary creation by experimenting with these enticing variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheese Swap: Use grated Parmesan or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a different cheesy twist that suits your palate.
- Extra Heat: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade for an even spicier kick—perfect if you love the heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill, replacing parsley to introduce a refreshing flavor burst with every bite.
- Citrus Zing: Try adding lime or orange zest along with the lemon for a vibrant twist, taking the flavor profile to new heights!
- Baked Veggie Option: Mix in thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant, combining with the calamari for a colorful, veggie-filled platter that adds variety.
- Asian Flair: Swap the olive oil with sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an Asian-inspired flavor twist that’s simply irresistible.
- Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle a hint of honey or maple syrup for a sweet contrast that balances the spicy and savory elements beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make this dish your own! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Baked Calamari
Fridge: Store any leftover crispy baked calamari in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, place the calamari in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. After frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen calamari directly on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375˚F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Tip: Enjoy a fresh batch of crispy baked calamari by making only what you’ll eat to reduce leftovers.
Crispy Baked Calamari Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh calamari?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh calamari, look for clean, slightly translucent flesh with a mild ocean scent. It should feel firm to the touch and have a shiny surface. Avoid calamari with dark spots or a rubbery texture, indicating age.
How should I store leftover crispy baked calamari?
You can store leftover crispy baked calamari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain as much of that delightful crunch as possible, try to consume it soon after cooking. When reheating, using the oven instead of the microwave will help restore some of its original crispiness.
Can I freeze crispy baked calamari?
Certainly! To freeze, arrange the calamari in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can enjoy them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the bag with the date!
What if my calamari turns out chewy?
Very often, chewy calamari comes from overcooking. Ensure you’re checking the calamari after 10 minutes in the oven; it’s done when tender and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If you find yourself with leftover chewy calamari, try slicing it into smaller pieces and incorporating it into a pasta dish or salad, where the flavors can shine without the texture being too noticeable.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This crispy baked calamari recipe is suitable for most diets, but always check for allergies to shellfish. As for gluten-free options, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or panko. Serve the dish without marinara for dietary restrictions like low-carb or keto, or skip the cheese for dairy-free diners.
Crispy Baked Calamari with Cheesy Breadcrumbs for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven: Place one oven rack on the bottom rung and another under the broiler. Preheat your oven to 425˚F and line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper, gently rubbing it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the calamari: If using frozen calamari, be sure to defrost it completely. Pat it dry with paper towels, ensuring it’s moisture-free to achieve that crispy texture later on.
- Mix the breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the fine breadcrumbs and grated Pecorino Romano cheese, creating a delightful mixture that adds flavor and crunch to your calamari. Set aside.
- Create the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and zest, diced pickled cherry peppers and brine, extra virgin olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and all the spices. Stir until fully combined for an aromatic marinade.
- Marinate the calamari: Gently fold the calamari rings and tentacles into the marinade, mixing until well-coated. Allow it to marinate for about 5 minutes to absorb those fabulous flavors.
- Combine breadcrumbs with calamari: Set aside about ⅓ cup of the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Now mix the remaining breadcrumbs with the marinated calamari, ensuring they are fully coated for that perfect crunch.
- Arrange on the pan: Transfer the calamari to the oiled, parchment-lined sheet pan in a single layer. If needed, use two sheet pans to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the reserved ⅓ cup of breadcrumb mixture over the calamari. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to help achieve that golden-brown finish.
- Roast the calamari: Place the pan in your preheated oven and roast the calamari for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness after 10 minutes—the calamari is ready when it's tender and the breadcrumbs are beautifully golden brown.
- Optional broil: If you’d like an extra crunch, broil for 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve and enjoy: Once cooked to perfection, remove the calamari from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Serve with lemon wedges and warm marinara sauce for that delightful dipping experience, if desired.