Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

Description

Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is a quick, delicious seafood dish featuring juicy shrimp coated in rich garlic butter, fresh lemon juice, and fragrant herbs. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a light and flavorful family meal. Serve it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce.

Ingredients

• 1½ lb (680 g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt, or to taste

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• Lemon wedges, for serving

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Heat to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Prepare the shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely, drain, and pat dry with paper towels.

3. Make the garlic butter: In a bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

4. Coat the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the baking dish and toss with the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated.

5. Arrange evenly: Spread the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking.

6. Bake: Bake for approximately 8–10 minutes, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Check that they reach 145°F (63°C) internally.

   bigoven.com+1

7. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp.

8. Serve: Add lemon wedges and serve immediately while warm.

Healthy Benefits

• High in protein: Shrimp provides protein to support muscle health.

• Contains vitamin B12: Helps support normal nerve function and red blood cell formation.

• Provides selenium: Contributes to normal thyroid function and antioxidant defenses.

• Lemon and parsley: Add freshness and some vitamin C.

• Easy to customize: Use less butter or replace some with olive oil for a lighter version.

Pro Tips

• Pat the shrimp dry before baking to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.

• Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for the best flavor.

• Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can quickly become tough and rubbery.

• Choose shrimp of similar size so they cook evenly.

• Spoon the garlic butter over the shrimp just before serving for extra flavor.

Frequency

This recipe can fit into a balanced weekly meal plan. Enjoy shrimp as part of a varied diet, alternating with other seafood, chicken, beans, and plant-based protein sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding the garlic butter.

Q: Can I make this recipe without an oven?

Yes. Cook the coated shrimp in a skillet over medium heat for approximately 2–3 minutes per side, until pink, opaque, and cooked through.

Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can mix the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. For the best texture, bake the shrimp just before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours and use within 3–4 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free; check packaged seasonings and other products for cross-contact or added ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over lemon rice or steamed rice.

• Toss with spaghetti or linguine.

• Pair with roasted broccoli or asparagus.

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

• Add a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

• Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the shrimp during the last few minutes of baking.

• Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add fresh thyme or oregano.

• Honey Garlic Shrimp: Add 1 teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.

• Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes and sliced olives before baking.

Related Recipe Ideas

• Lemon Butter Baked Salmon

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

• Honey Garlic Chicken

• Mediterranean Baked Cod

• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

• Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

Final Thought

Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is simple, elegant, and full of fresh, savory flavor. With tender shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and a bright squeeze of lemon, this easy recipe makes any dinner feel special.