Baked Shrimp

This Baked Shrimp is buttery, garlicky, and incredibly fast to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect on its own or served over rice or pasta, this versatile dish makes a flavorful and elegant weeknight dinner or appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick, simple, and packed with flavor, this baked shrimp recipe is a go-to when you need a meal on the table fast. The rich garlic butter sauce infuses the shrimp with savory goodness, while lemon juice adds a touch of brightness. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s a fantastic option for busy evenings or entertaining guests.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound raw, peeled, and deveined medium to large shrimp
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh minced parsley, for garnish

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place shrimp in a baking dish. Pour garlic butter over shrimp and gently toss to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 8–15 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque (cooking time varies based on shrimp size).
6. Garnish with minced parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for some heat.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a slightly different citrus profile.
• Herb Blend: Mix in chopped fresh basil, thyme, or dill for added herbal flavor.
• Garlic-Lemon Pasta: Toss the baked shrimp with cooked spaghetti or linguine and a little reserved pasta water for a quick garlic-lemon pasta.
• Veggie Add-In: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before baking.

What size shrimp should I use?

Medium to large shrimp work best for even cooking and presentation.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the garlic butter and marinate the shrimp ahead, but it’s best to bake right before serving.

What should I serve with baked shrimp?

Rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad all pair well.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s not recommended as they may become rubbery when baked. Use raw shrimp for best results.

How do I know when shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, a light sprinkle of parmesan can be added before baking for extra flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger baking dish to accommodate more shrimp evenly.

Should I leave the tails on or off?

That’s personal preference—tails can add a nice presentation but are not necessary.

Conclusion

This Baked Shrimp is a fast, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With rich garlic butter, bright lemon juice, and tender shrimp, it’s a simple yet elegant meal that everyone will enjoy.

Print