Of course! A baked shrimp recipe is one of the easiest, most foolproof ways to prepare delicious shrimp. It’s quick, hands-off, and incredibly versatile.
Here are three fantastic baked shrimp recipes, ranging from a classic garlic butter version to a more adventurous feta and tomato bake.
Recipe 1: Classic Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
This is a quintessential recipe that yields juicy, flavorful shrimp in a rich, aromatic sauce. It’s perfect for serving with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Yields: 2-3 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8-10 minutes
Ingredients
· 1 lb large shrimp (31/40 count), peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
· 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
· 4 cloves garlic, minced
· 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about ½ a lemon)
· 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
· 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
· ½ teaspoon paprika
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
· Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prep Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them roast instead of steam. Place them in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine: Pour the sauce over the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. They cook very quickly, so do not overcook!
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley right out of the oven. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges and crusty bread for the sauce.
Recipe 2: Mediterranean Baked Shrimp with Feta & Tomatoes (Shrimp Saganaki)
This is a show-stopping one-pan meal that’s vibrant, healthy, and full of flavor.
Yields: 3-4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients
· 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
· 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
· 1 small onion, finely chopped
· 4 cloves garlic, minced
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 teaspoon dried oregano
· ½ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or chicken broth
· 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
· 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
· Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté Aromatics: In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and oregano and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Create Tomato Base: Pour in the white wine (or broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Shrimp & Feta: Remove the skillet from the heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer over the tomato sauce. Top generously with the crumbled feta cheese.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the feta is soft and slightly melted.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve directly from the skillet with rice, orzo, or more crusty bread.
Recipe 3: Simple Parmesan Panko Baked Shrimp
For those who love a crispy topping, this recipe gives you the crunch of fried shrimp without the oil.
Yields: 2-3 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Ingredients
· 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
· 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
· 1 teaspoon garlic powder
· ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
· 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
· Salt and pepper to taste
· Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prep Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and place them in a bowl. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the Panko, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt.
- Assemble: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Press a generous amount of the Panko mixture onto the top of each shrimp. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray (this helps them brown).
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges. Great with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Pro-Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp Every Time
· Don’t Overcook! This is the most important rule. Shrimp cook incredibly fast. They are done when they turn pink and opaque and form a loose “C” shape. If they curl into a tight “O,” they are overdone and will be rubbery.
· Size Matters: Cooking time will vary based on the size of your shrimp. Adjust accordingly.
· Pat Dry: Always pat shrimp dry before adding oil or seasoning. This ensures they get a nice sear and the seasoning sticks.
· Frozen Shrimp: Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a colander under cold running water. Pat them very dry before using.
Enjoy your easy and delicious baked shrimp