Description
This Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a simple yet flavorful seafood dish perfect for a quick and elegant meal. Juicy shrimp are coated in a zesty garlic lemon butter sauce and baked to perfection, making it a light and delicious option for dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
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)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish and Serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 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 sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the shrimp: Spread the peeled and deveined shrimp evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Season them with salt and pepper according to your taste to enhance the natural flavor.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir the mixture well to blend all the flavors.
- Coat the shrimp: Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over the shrimp, making sure each shrimp is thoroughly coated with the sauce to absorb the flavor during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the shrimp for 10-12 minutes. The shrimp are done when they turn pink, become opaque, and reach an internal temperature of 145°F, ensuring they are safely cooked but tender.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.
Notes
- You can use tail-on shrimp for presentation or tail-off for easier eating.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preference for heat, or omit if you prefer no spice.
- Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.
- This dish can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
