Baked shrimp is one of my favorite seafood dishes to make at home. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and comes together in no time. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats each shrimp beautifully. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer for gatherings. Let’s dive into how to make the best baked shrimp!
1. Baked Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs. large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). A moderate temperature allows the shrimp to cook evenly without drying out.
Pat the shrimp dry using a paper towel. This step ensures they absorb the flavors better while baking.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. The aroma at this stage is already incredible!
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss them until fully coated with the flavorful butter mixture.
Spread the shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish or on a sheet pan. Overcrowding may cause uneven cooking, so make sure they have space.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become rubbery when left in the oven too long.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the baked shrimp. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.
2. Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp
Use Fresh Shrimp When Possible
Fresh shrimp always deliver the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Don’t Overbake
Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp become tough and chewy.
Adjust Spice Levels to Your Preference
For a mild version, leave out the red pepper flakes. If you enjoy heat, add a bit more! Smoked paprika also gives a nice depth of flavor.
Use High-Quality Butter and Olive Oil
The butter and olive oil in this dish play a key role in flavor. Using high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference.
3. What to Eat With Baked Shrimp
Baked shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:
Garlic Butter Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with a little extra garlic butter sauce and serve the shrimp on top. A sprinkle of Parmesan makes it even better!
Steamed or Roasted Vegetables
Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini complement the shrimp beautifully. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness.
Crusty Bread
A slice of crispy bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Rice or Quinoa
For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp over fluffy rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Fresh Salad
A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftover
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s unlikely with this flavorful dish), storing and reheating them properly is key to maintaining their taste and texture.
Storing: Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature before transferring them into an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Baked shrimp is one of those dishes that never disappoints. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich and zesty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
I love how versatile it is—serve it with pasta for a comforting meal or pair it with a salad for something light. Once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to shrimp dish!
Let me know how it turns out for you, and feel free to experiment with different seasonings to make it your own. Happy cooking! 🍤✨
