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.
Prep time
10 min
Cook time
10 min
Servings
4
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
Preheat the oven: Heat to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare the shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely, drain, and pat dry with paper towels.
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.
Coat the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the baking dish and toss with the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated.
Arrange evenly: Spread the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking.
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.
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Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp.
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.
