Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Drizzle the butter mixture over the shrimp, ensuring even coating.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp Stands Out

Shrimp is one of the most versatile and beloved seafood options. It’s light, packed with protein, and absorbs flavors beautifully. But what makes this particular dish so special? The secret lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures.

1. Rich and Buttery – The melted butter in this recipe adds a luxurious, velvety coating to the shrimp, enhancing its natural sweetness. Butter is the foundation of this dish, providing both flavor and moisture to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
2. Aromatic Garlic Infusion – Garlic is a powerhouse ingredient that deepens the flavor profile. As it bakes, it caramelizes slightly, releasing a sweet, earthy aroma that makes the dish irresistible.
3. Bright and Zesty Lemon – The acidity from the fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter, bringing a bright and refreshing contrast to the dish. It also helps tenderize the shrimp, ensuring they remain succulent.
4. Subtle Warmth from Paprika – Paprika doesn’t just add color; it enhances the overall depth of the dish with a mild smokiness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. You can even customize this by using smoked paprika for a more intense flavor.
5. Quick and Easy Preparation – Unlike many seafood recipes that require marinating, breading, or complex steps, this dish is incredibly simple. With just a few minutes of prep and a short bake time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in under 30 minutes.

How to Customize Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ways you can modify it:

1. Adjust the Spice Level

If you enjoy a little heat in your dishes, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper will give the shrimp a mild kick. For those who prefer a milder taste, simply leave out any additional spices beyond the paprika.

2. Make It Creamy

For a richer and more indulgent version, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese into the butter sauce before baking. This creates a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread.

3. Try Different Herbs

While parsley is a classic garnish for shrimp dishes, you can experiment with fresh cilantro, basil, or dill for a different flavor profile.

4. Add More Citrus

Lemon is the star citrus in this dish, but you can also use lime for a slightly tangier version or even orange zest for a sweeter, more fragrant take.

5. Include Vegetables

For a one-pan meal, toss in some asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini along with the shrimp. The vegetables will soak up the flavorful butter sauce, creating a well-rounded dish.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

This dish is incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with different sides. Here are some of the best ways to serve it:

1. Over Pasta

Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp pairs beautifully with pasta like angel hair, linguine, or fettuccine. Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and its buttery sauce for a luxurious seafood pasta dish.

2. With Rice or Quinoa

For a gluten-free option, serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Both grains absorb the lemon butter sauce well, ensuring you get all the delicious flavors in every bite.

3. With Crusty Bread

A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful garlic butter sauce. Serve it as an appetizer with a side of bread for dipping.

4. As a Topping for Salad

For a lighter meal, place the shrimp on top of a fresh green salad. Arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette make a perfect pairing.

5. In Tacos or Wraps

Want to turn this into a handheld meal? Stuff the shrimp into warm tortillas with some avocado, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of sour cream for incredible shrimp tacos.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Drink with Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

Pairing the right drink with this dish can elevate your dining experience. Here are some top choices:

1. White Wine – A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay complements the buttery richness and citrusy brightness of the shrimp.
2. Lemonade or Citrus Iced Tea – If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a fresh lemonade or lightly sweetened citrus iced tea pairs wonderfully.
3. Sparkling Water with Herbs – Infused sparkling water with lemon, mint, or basil makes a refreshing and palate-cleansing drink choice.
4. Light Beer – A wheat beer or pale ale enhances the delicate seafood flavors without overwhelming them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

Even with a simple recipe, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure perfect results every time:

1. Overcooking the Shrimp – Shrimp cooks very quickly, and overbaking it can make it tough and rubbery. Be sure to remove it from the oven as soon as it turns pink and opaque.
2. Not Using Fresh Lemon Juice – Bottled lemon juice lacks the fresh, zesty flavor that makes this dish shine. Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste.
3. Skipping the Garlic Sauté – While baking alone will infuse some flavor, sautéing the garlic lightly in butter before mixing it with the shrimp can enhance its aroma and depth.
4. Using Pre-Cooked Shrimp – This recipe works best with raw shrimp, as pre-cooked shrimp can become overcooked and chewy when baked.
5. Not Patting the Shrimp Dry – Excess moisture can prevent the butter sauce from coating the shrimp properly. Pat them dry with a paper towel before baking.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and endlessly versatile, making it a must-have recipe for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

With endless customization options and serving possibilities, it’s no surprise that this recipe is a favorite among seafood lovers. The next time you need a quick and delicious meal, give this dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!