As the sun set, the kitchen filled with the smell of shrimp and lemon butter. It called my family to the table. This Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp recipe is a favorite for us. It turns simple ingredients into a delicious, restaurant-like meal.
The magic happens when lemon and butter come together. They make the shrimp taste amazing. It’s easy to make and cooks quickly in the oven. This way, we can enjoy a tasty meal without much effort.
Key Takeaways
- Perfectly tender baked shrimp coated in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce
- Quick and easy dinner option, ready in under 30 minutes
- Bursting with bright, fresh flavor and a flawless final texture
- Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with various sides and seasonings
What Makes This Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe Special
Our easy lemon butter baked shrimp recipe is special because of its buttery, garlicky taste. Each shrimp is covered in a rich marinade that highlights the seafood’s natural sweetness. The cooking method ensures the shrimp are tender, not tough.
Perfect Texture and Flavor Combination
This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to just 5 main ingredients and salt and pepper. The lemon butter sauce makes the shrimp velvety and buttery. The garlic and seasonings add to the seafood’s sweetness. Every bite is a mix of great textures and tastes.
Quick and Simple Preparation
This easy shrimp dinner is great for busy nights. It’s a healthy shrimp meal that’s quick to make. Prep time is 5 minutes, and cooking takes 10 minutes. It’s a simple yet impressive dish.
Versatile Serving Options
This lemon butter baked shrimp recipe is perfect for many occasions. You can serve it over pasta, rice, or with roasted veggies. It’s also great as a flavorful appetizer or light main course. It’s sure to impress everyone.
“This lemon butter baked shrimp recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. The flavors are out of this world, and it’s so easy to prepare – a total win-win!”
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools
To make our garlic butter shrimp recipe, you’ll need some key ingredients and tools. Let’s look at what you need for this tasty shrimp dish!
The star of the recipe is the shrimp. Use large, extra-jumbo shrimp, 16 to 20 per pound. These peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on taste best. You’ll need 2 lbs of this delicious seafood.
The garlic butter sauce is just as important. You’ll need unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, and spices. This includes 8 large garlic cloves, 2 medium lemons, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large, Extra-Jumbo Shrimp (peeled and deveined, with tails on) | 2 lbs |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 2 medium lemons |
| Garlic Cloves | 8 large cloves |
| Olive Oil | As needed |
| Kosher Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Red Pepper Flakes (optional) | To taste |
| Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) | As needed |
You’ll also need a baking dish, a mixing bowl, and a kitchen timer. These tools help make sure your garlic butter shrimp is perfectly baked every time.
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make a fantastic lemon butter baked shrimp dish. It’s perfect as a shrimp appetizer or party food that will wow your guests.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Getting ready for an easy shrimp dinner with a tasty lemon butter sauce is simple. Just follow these easy steps. Let’s make this yummy baked shrimp dish together.
Preparing the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute, until it smells great. Then, remove it from the heat and mix in 2 teaspoons of lemon zest, coarse sea salt, and fresh cracked black pepper. Keep the garlic lemon butter sauce ready while you prep the shrimp.
Proper Marinating Techniques
Pat the jumbo shrimp (about 1 1/2 pounds) dry with paper towels. Put them in a big bowl. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the shrimp and gently toss to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for 10 to 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Baking Time and Temperature Tips
Heat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Put the marinated shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour any leftover marinade on top. Bake the baked shrimp for 8 to 10 minutes, until they’re pink and firm. Check with a food thermometer to make sure they’re at 145°F.
Immediately serve the easy shrimp dinner with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if you like. Enjoy this flavorful and lemon butter sauce-enhanced baked shrimp dish!
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
Preparing healthy shrimp meals at home is a joy. To make sure your garlic butter shrimp is perfect every time, we’ve got some expert advice for you.
First, watch the marinating time. Don’t let the shrimp marinate too long, or they’ll get too soft. Stick to the 30-minute mark for the best flavor.
When placing the shrimp on the baking sheet, spread them out evenly. This ensures they cook well without overcrowding. Use a baking dish instead of a sheet pan to keep the shrimp moist in the garlic butter.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp while they bake. They can quickly become tough if overcooked.
- For a twist, add some Cajun seasoning or Parmesan cheese to the dish.
- Leftover shrimp can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. It’s great for future meals.
By following these tips, you’ll make a delicious garlic butter shrimp dish. Your family and friends will love it. Bon appétit!
Conclusion
The Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe is a tasty, quick, and easy dinner for any occasion. It’s perfect for both shrimp lovers and beginners in cooking seafood. You can serve it with many sides, from salads to starches, making it a great choice for any meal.
This dish has a great mix of buttery, garlicky, and lemony tastes. It’s sure to be a hit in your home. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special seafood dish that’s easy to make.
Just follow the easy steps and tips to make this dish. Get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe.
FAQ
What makes this Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe special?
This recipe is special because it has tender shrimp smothered in a delicious garlic lemon butter sauce. It’s quick to make, ready in under 30 minutes. The dish is full of fresh flavor and has a perfect texture.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients are large shrimp, unsalted butter, lemon juice, and spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder. You can also add red pepper flakes for some heat and parsley for garnish.
What kitchen tools are needed to make this recipe?
You’ll need a baking dish, a mixing bowl, and a kitchen timer.
How do I prepare the shrimp for baking?
Use peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on for the best taste. Pat them dry and marinate them in the garlic lemon butter mix for 10-30 minutes.
What is the best way to bake the shrimp?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish, covering them with the marinade. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they’re pink and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Do you have any tips for achieving the best results?
Don’t marinate the shrimp too long to avoid ceviche. Spread them in a single layer for even cooking. Use a baking dish to keep them juicy in the garlic butter. Watch them closely while baking to prevent overcooking.
Can I make any variations to the recipe?
Yes, you can add Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist or grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Leftover shrimp can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
