The aroma of Baked Shrimp wafting through your kitchen can transport you straight to a sun-kissed beach, where the waves lap gently and seagulls serenade you. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp, perfectly baked, with flavors that dance on your palate like a joyous conga line. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant date night, this dish promises to elevate any occasion, making it feel special and memorable.
Now, let’s be honest. I’ve had my fair share of culinary disasters—like the time I mistook cayenne pepper for paprika and nearly blew my taste buds off. But fear not! This Baked Shrimp recipe is foolproof and will have everyone begging for seconds. Just picture it: vibrant colors, mouthwatering aromas, and the satisfaction of knowing you created something magnificent without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Baked Shrimp
- This incredible Baked Shrimp transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Baked Shrimp:
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well; just make sure they are peeled and deveined for easy eating.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for that robust flavor; they give the shrimp a delightful kick.
- Butter: A must-have ingredient to bring richness and depth to your dish; use unsalted butter for better control of seasoning.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and enhances the seafood flavor; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; feel free to chop it finely or sprinkle it whole.
For the Seasoning:
- Paprika: Sweet paprika gives a lovely color and mild flavor; avoid the hot variety unless you’re feeling adventurous.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the wonderful flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Baked Shrimp:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray. Your shrimp deserve the best!
Step 2: Prepare Your Shrimp
In a large bowl, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, minced garlic, melted butter, and lemon juice. Make sure every shrimp is coated evenly because nobody likes a bland bite.
Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish
Spread the seasoned shrimp evenly in your prepared baking dish. Don’t overcrowd them; we want each little morsel to bask in its own glory as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake Away
Slide that glorious dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. The smell will be intoxicating—I recommend keeping a fan nearby to blow away any jealous bystanders.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the baked shrimp for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer those succulent shrimps onto plates. Drizzle any leftover buttery goodness from the baking dish over them for that “chef’s kiss” finish.
And there you have it! Serve alongside some crusty bread or over pasta for the ultimate dining experience. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know About Baked Shrimp
- This showstopping Baked Shrimp delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Baked Shrimp, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, prepare your shrimp by cleaning and seasoning them. Afterward, mix your sauce and veggies, then layer everything in a baking dish before sliding it into the oven.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to customize your Baked Shrimp by swapping out the shrimp for scallops or adding a splash of white wine for extra depth. You can also experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley, or even toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Baked Shrimp, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For reheating, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, avoiding the microwave to maintain its texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Baked Shrimp
- This professional-quality Baked Shrimp relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made this Baked Shrimp was during a family gathering. Everyone raved about it! My aunt even claimed she’d never tasted shrimp so tender and flavorful—talk about pressure for my next dinner!
FAQs
What is Baked Shrimp?
Baked shrimp is a delicious seafood dish that involves cooking shrimp in the oven until tender and flavorful. This method enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp while allowing various seasonings to penetrate the meat. The result is a succulent and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Often served with sides like rice or vegetables, baked shrimp can be customized with different marinades or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
How do I prepare shrimp for baking?
Preparing shrimp for baking is simple and straightforward. Start by preheating your oven to the desired temperature, typically around 400°F (200°C). Rinse the shrimp under cold water and remove the shells if not already done. Pat them dry with a towel to ensure they bake evenly. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic, or your favorite spices before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
What are some easy recipes for Baked Shrimp?
There are many easy recipes for baked shrimp that you can try at home. One popular option includes tossing shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika before baking. Another tasty variation features a breadcrumb topping mixed with Parmesan cheese and herbs for extra crunch and flavor. You can also experiment with different marinades such as teriyaki or spicy sriracha to create your own signature baked shrimp dish.
Can I use frozen shrimp for baking?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for baking! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. To thaw frozen shrimp, place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes. Once thawed, follow your preferred recipe for baked shrimp as usual. Using frozen shrimp can be a convenient option while still delivering great taste when cooked correctly.
Conclusion
In summary, baked shrimp is an incredibly versatile and delightful dish that anyone can prepare at home. With simple preparation techniques and countless variations in seasoning, this recipe satisfies seafood lovers everywhere. Remember to choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp and explore different flavors through marinades and toppings. Enjoy your culinary adventure with baked shrimp as it promises both deliciousness and ease of preparation!
Baked Shrimp
Baked Shrimp is a quick and delightful seafood dish that transforms fresh shrimp into a flavorful, oven-baked masterpiece. Infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs, this recipe elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for family dinners or elegant outings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning and deliciously satisfying. Enjoy tender shrimp coated in rich butter and zesty lemon, making it a hit for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp with garlic, melted butter, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
