Garlic butter baked shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Juicy shrimp are baked in a rich garlic butter sauce and topped with a touch of lemon and fresh herbs for a mouthwatering result. Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Simple ingredients with bold flavors.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.
- Perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.
- A low-carb, protein-packed option for a healthy diet.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- Garlic (minced)
- Lemon juice
- Paprika
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: Lemon wedges
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the garlic butter sauce:
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the shrimp:
- Place the shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the shrimp, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Bake:
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle the shrimp with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy shrimp: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Herb-infused butter: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the garlic butter for a fragrant twist.
- Parmesan topping: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the shrimp before baking for a cheesy finish.
- Mediterranean style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and crumbled feta to the dish.
- Cajun flair: Swap paprika for Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth, or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when frozen and reheated.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw them completely before cooking for even baking.
2. What can I serve with garlic butter baked shrimp?
Pair it with rice, pasta, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
3. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to just a few minutes to warm them through.
4. What’s the best way to thaw frozen shrimp?
Place frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 15–20 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
5. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Keep a close eye on the oven and remove the shrimp as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
6. Can I substitute butter with olive oil?
Yes, olive oil works well for a lighter version, though butter gives a richer flavor.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Add asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers to the baking dish for a complete meal.
9. Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
10. How do I know if my shrimp are fresh?
Fresh shrimp should smell clean and have firm, translucent flesh. Avoid shrimp with a strong fishy odor or slimy texture.
Conclusion
Garlic butter baked shrimp is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a quick family meal, this recipe delivers delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Give it a try, and savor the irresistible flavors of garlic, butter, and lemon!
Print
Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Treat yourself to this Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp, a quick and delicious seafood dish! Juicy shrimp are tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, baked to perfection, and topped with fresh herbs. Perfect for an elegant appetizer or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Shrimp:
- Pour the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake the Shrimp:
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque. Avoid overcooking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices on the side. Pair with crusty bread, pasta, or rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a smoky flavor, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
- Use this recipe with scallops or lobster for a variation.
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