Cooking shrimp in the oven is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to enjoy this versatile seafood. Oven-baked shrimp cooks quickly, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers juicy, tender results with bold flavor. With just a handful of pantry spices, olive oil, and fresh lemon, you can create a dish that tastes fresh, light, and satisfying without standing over the stove.
1. How to Cook Shrimp in the Oven ( Yield: 4 Serving )
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, deveined (tail on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting shrimp quickly without drying them out. While the oven heats, prepare a rimmed baking sheet. You can line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup, though this step is optional.
Prepare the shrimp
If your shrimp are frozen, thaw them completely before cooking. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is important because dry shrimp roast better and develop more flavor instead of steaming in the oven.
Season the shrimp
Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, onion powder, and kosher salt. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. Make sure each shrimp has a light, even layer for consistent flavor.
Arrange on the baking sheet
Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this can cause uneven cooking. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure the shrimp have enough space.
Bake the shrimp
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the size of your shrimp. Large shrimp typically cook quickly and are done when they turn pink, opaque, and curl slightly into a loose “C” shape. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left in the oven too long.
Finish and garnish
Remove the shrimp from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for brightness. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh, colorful finish.
Serve
Serve the oven-baked shrimp hot with extra lemon wedges on the side. They pair well with rice, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a simple green salad.
2. Tips for Perfect Oven Baked Shrimp
Choose shrimp that are similar in size so they cook evenly in the oven. Large or jumbo shrimp are best because they stay juicy and are less likely to overcook.
Before seasoning, always pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp roast properly and prevents them from becoming watery.
Preheat the oven fully before baking. A hot oven allows the shrimp to cook quickly, sealing in moisture and flavor.
Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. If shrimp are piled on top of each other, they will steam instead of roast, resulting in a softer texture.
Use just enough oil to coat the shrimp lightly. Too little oil can cause sticking, while too much can make the shrimp greasy.
Keep the seasoning balanced and simple, letting the natural sweetness of the shrimp stand out. If you like extra flavor, add spices such as paprika, chili flakes, or lemon zest, but avoid heavy sauces during baking.
Watch the cooking time closely, as shrimp cook very fast. Remove them from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque with a gentle curl. Letting them stay on the hot pan for too long can lead to overcooking.
Finish with fresh lemon juice and herbs right after baking to add brightness and freshness without overpowering the shrimp.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake shrimp with the shell on?
Yes, shrimp can be baked with the shell on, which helps retain moisture and flavor. However, deveined shrimp are recommended for ease of eating. Shell-on shrimp may require an extra minute or two of cooking time.
What size shrimp works best for oven baking?
Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal because they cook evenly and remain juicy. Medium shrimp can also be used, but you should reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely. Dried oregano and onion powder work well in this recipe. If using fresh herbs, add them after baking to preserve their bright flavor and color.
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Cooked shrimp turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape. If they curl tightly into an “O,” they are likely overcooked.
Can I prepare oven-baked shrimp ahead of time?
Shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, but you can season them a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake. Avoid baking too far in advance, as reheated shrimp can become tough.
What dishes pair well with oven-baked shrimp?
Oven-baked shrimp pair well with rice, quinoa, pasta, roasted vegetables, or tucked into tacos and wraps for a quick meal.
4. Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 190 mg |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Oven-baked shrimp is proof that simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can produce delicious results. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this method delivers tender, flavorful shrimp suitable for countless meals and occasions. Once you master this basic approach, you can easily customize it with different spices, herbs, or sauces to match your taste.
Read More: How To Cook Perfect Frozen Shrimp
