Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Name: Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 lbs extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 cup butter; 1 Tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves); 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste); 2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 16, 2025

Updated:

March 16, 2025

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Baked shrimp with garlic lemon butter sauce is a delicious and uncomplicated dish that can turn any meal into a special occasion. Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly baked, swimming in a rich garlicy sauce that’s brightened up with fresh lemon juice. It’s a dish that not only tastes fantastic but also smells heavenly as it cooks. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe has become one of my go-to favorites. Plus, the whole process is straightforward, so you can focus more on enjoying the meal rather than stressing in the kitchen.

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As we walk through this recipe, you’ll find it easy to follow along, and soon enough, you’ll be impressing everyone with your culinary skills. It’s all about creating a mouthwatering experience that brings people together. So, let’s get started on baking some scrumptious shrimp that you’ll want to make again and again!

Why This Recipe Works

Baked shrimp with garlic lemon butter sauce is an effortless yet impressive dish that marries simple ingredients to create a flavor-packed experience. The secret is in the quick baking method that preserves the shrimp’s tender juiciness while enveloping them in a luscious sauce. The combination of garlic and lemon brightens up the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making every bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Shrimp (with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce)

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also offers a comforting, indulgent flavor profile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for entertaining guests. The bright lemon and fragrant garlic create a mouthwatering aroma that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread for sopping up every drop of that delicious sauce.

Ingredients

1 1/4 lbs extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup butter
1 Tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/8 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley

Preparing Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and become perfectly tender.

Arrange the Shrimp

Place the cleaned and deveined shrimp in a baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking. This step is essential as it helps all the shrimp cook at the same rate, ensuring they remain juicy.

Melt the Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Alternatively, you can melt the butter in a microwave-safe dish for convenience. This should only take a minute or so.

Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn as burnt garlic can turn bitter. The aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation.

Combine Lemon Juice

Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir the mixture well to combine the flavors. This simple addition really brightens up the sauce and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

Pour Over Shrimp

Drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce over the shrimp in the baking dish. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss the shrimp gently to ensure they are nicely coated in the sauce. Each shrimp should be glistening in that creamy goodness!

Bake the Shrimp

Bake in the preheated oven until the shrimp are cooked through, turning pink and opaque. This should take about 9 to 13 minutes. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can lead to rubbery shrimp, which we definitely want to avoid!

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly minced parsley. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, ensuring everyone gets a generous spoonful of that rich sauce alongside the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

This baked shrimp pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside a fresh garden salad. Crusty bread is a must for soaking up that garlic lemon butter sauce. You might even think about a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs to complement the dish beautifully.

Tips for Success

Make sure the shrimp are evenly arranged in the baking dish. This helps them cook evenly and keeps them tender.
Adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes based on your flavor preference. If you love garlic, don’t be shy about adding more!
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for optimal cooking results. This makes a big difference in how the shrimp turn out.

Variations

You can customize this recipe in several ways, such as adding additional herbs like thyme or oregano for extra depth. Incorporating vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers can also enhance the dish while adding color and nutrition. Feel free to experiment a bit; cooking should always be fun!

Storage Tips

Leftover baked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking. Simply warm it up so you can enjoy the wonderful flavors again.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy your baked shrimp with a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the dish perfectly. Light appetizers like bruschetta or a simple charcuterie board can make for a delightful meal ensemble. A fresh citrus salad can also lighten things up and balance out the richness of the butter sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp can still be just as delicious!

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
They should be pink and opaque throughout with a firm texture. Just a little poke or press will tell you if they’re ready!

Can I use a different type of butter?
Yes, you can substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter for a different flavor. Each brings its own unique twist to the dish.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh lemon?
You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is recommended for best flavor. Fresh brings brightness that bottled often can’t match.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic lemon butter sauce in advance but cook the shrimp just before serving for optimal freshness. Like all seafood, shrimp is best enjoyed freshly cooked!

This baked shrimp dish is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, making it ideal for any meal occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and embrace the joy of cooking with family and friends!

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