When it comes to creating a dish that’s both indulgent and effortless, Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp takes center stage. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a family feast, this dish brings together the perfect balance of rich, buttery flavors and zesty freshness. Imagine juicy shrimp bathed in garlic-infused butter, kissed by a hint of lemon—it’s a meal that feels like a celebration with every bite. And the best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes!
Why Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is a Must-Try Dish
If you’re a seafood lover, you know the magic of fresh shrimp paired with vibrant ingredients. This recipe not only delivers mouthwatering flavors but also simplifies cooking with easy steps and readily available ingredients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with crusty bread, orzo, creamy polenta, or rice pilaf. Let’s dive into how you can make this show-stopping dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Garlic cloves | 6 finely chopped |
| Medium lemons | 2 (zest one, juice, and cut one into wedges) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Kosher salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons (divided) |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Extra-jumbo shrimp | 1 1/2 pounds (16-20 per pound, cleaned and deveined) |
| Fresh parsley | 1 small bunch (1/4 cup, chopped) |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
1. Prepare the Garlic Marinade
- Finely chop six garlic cloves and zest one lemon.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine half the garlic, the lemon zest, olive oil, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp
- Clean and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact if you prefer.
- Toss the shrimp in the marinade until they are evenly coated.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the Oven
- Arrange a rack in the middle of your oven and preheat it to 400°F.
- While the oven heats, cut the zested lemon in half and slice the remaining lemon into wedges for serving.
4. Make the Garlic Butter
- Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it turns golden, about two minutes.
- Add the reserved garlic and squeeze the juice from the zested lemon into the butter. Let it bubble slightly and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Combine and Bake
- Pour the warm lemon-garlic butter over the marinated shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
- Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn opaque and are just cooked through.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of side: crusty bread, orzo, rice pilaf, or creamy polenta.
Why This Recipe Works
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a robust and refreshing flavor profile.
- Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Baking ensures the shrimp remain tender and juicy.
- Versatility: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a complete meal.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a gourmet dish in no time.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and lemons for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
FAQs About Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating to prevent excess moisture.
2. How do I devein shrimp?
Gently slice along the back of the shrimp with a small knife and remove the dark vein using the tip of the knife or a toothpick.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance, but bake them just before serving for the best texture.
4. What other herbs can I use instead of parsley?
Cilantro, dill, or chives can work as flavorful alternatives.
5. Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
6. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is a dish that’s as simple to prepare as it is impressive to serve. Whether you’re treating yourself to a comforting dinner or wowing your guests at a gathering, this recipe delivers every time. The buttery, garlicky goodness paired with zesty lemon and tender shrimp creates a flavor combination you’ll crave again and again.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let this delightful recipe become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds—and anyone you share this meal with—will thank you.
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Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp: The Perfect Recipe for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp—a dish that combines succulent shrimp, buttery garlic goodness, and a hint of lemon zest. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 medium lemons (zest one, juice it, and cut one into wedges)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 ½ pounds extra-jumbo shrimp (16–20 per pound, cleaned and deveined)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Marinade:
- Finely chop garlic and zest one lemon.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix half the garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Clean and devein the shrimp, leaving tails intact if desired.
- Toss shrimp in the marinade until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 400°F.
- Cut the zested lemon in half and slice the other into wedges for serving.
- Make Garlic Butter:
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until golden (about 2 minutes).
- Add the remaining garlic and lemon juice. Let it bubble slightly and cook for another minute.
- Stir in ½ teaspoon kosher salt and set aside.
- Combine and Bake:
- Pour the garlic-lemon butter over the marinated shrimp and toss to coat.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp.
- Serve with lemon wedges and your choice of side—crusty bread, rice pilaf, creamy polenta, or orzo.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp and lemons for the best results.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for your preferred spice level.
- Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
