Description
This Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a simple yet flavorful seafood dish perfect for a quick and elegant meal. Succulent shrimp are coated in a zesty garlic lemon butter sauce and baked to perfection, resulting in a tender, juicy entree that pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, salad, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
- Prepare the shrimp: Spread the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Season them evenly with salt and pepper to taste over the top.
- Make the garlic lemon butter sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are blended.
- Coat the shrimp: Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over the shrimp on the baking sheet, making sure each piece is coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Bake the shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink, become opaque, and are cooked through. The internal temperature of the shrimp should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the shrimp for added brightness.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can marinate the shrimp in the garlic lemon butter sauce for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- Do not overcook the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, include the red pepper flakes; otherwise, omit for a milder taste.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best vibrant citrus flavor.
