Baked Shrimp With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like the combination of juicy, succulent shrimp bathed in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce. This easy baked shrimp recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions.

this Recipe

I first made this dish when I needed a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer for a family gathering. It was an instant hit, and now, it's a staple in my kitchen whenever I want a light but flavorful meal. The best part? It comes together in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.

Why You'll Love This Baked Shrimp With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that's as simple as it is irresistible. This baked shrimp recipe is packed with flavor, requires minimal effort, and pairs well with just about anything.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes in the oven, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.

The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a luscious sauce that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp. It’s bright, buttery, and downright addictive.

You’ll love how versatile this dish is. Serve it over pasta, alongside roasted vegetables, or with a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce.

And let's not forget that shrimp is a fantastic high-protein, low-calorie option. Whether you're looking for a light dinner or a nutritious appetizer, this dish fits the bill.

Ingredients Notes

This baked shrimp dish shines because of its simple yet high-impact ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Shrimp – Choose large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined for easy eating. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work well too—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before baking.

Butter – The foundation of the sauce, butter adds a rich, velvety texture. Opt for unsalted butter to control the seasoning.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor. If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Lemon – A generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter. Lemon zest adds even more citrusy depth.

Seasonings – A blend of salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and paprika enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor. If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes.

If you have a cast-iron skillet or a baking dish, you’re all set. These ensure even cooking and allow the shrimp to absorb the maximum amount of flavor.

How To Make This Baked Shrimp With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Making this dish is as easy as mix, bake, and serve. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a show-stopping meal in no time.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures your shrimp cook evenly.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic turns bitter quickly. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, zest, and seasonings.

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour the buttery garlic lemon sauce evenly over them, making sure every piece is well coated.

Bake for 9-12 minutes, depending on the size of your shrimp. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye!

Once out of the oven, give them a final squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the sauce is hot and luscious.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they disappear fast!), store them properly to keep the flavors intact.

Place the shrimp and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The butter may solidify, but it will melt again when reheated.

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Freezing isn't ideal for this dish since shrimp tend to lose their texture when thawed, but if needed, freeze in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fun ways to switch things up.

For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese into the sauce before pouring it over the shrimp. This adds a rich, decadent touch.

Want extra heat? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the spice level.

If you're avoiding dairy, swap the butter for olive oil or ghee. It will still be delicious but slightly lighter.

You can also change up the herbs! Try cilantro for a fresh, citrusy twist or basil for a more Mediterranean feel.

For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp over linguine, rice, or quinoa, letting the grains soak up the flavorful sauce.

This baked shrimp recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. Whether you're making it for a quick dinner or impressing guests, it's guaranteed to be a hit.

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