Juicy shrimp baked in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, perfect for pairing with bread, pasta, or rice.
When I need a quick and easy dinner that everyone will love, I always turn to this Garlic Butter Shrimp. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients—shrimp, garlic, lemon, and butter—this dish comes together in less than 15 minutes and is bursting with flavor! It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re hosting friends and want something impressive but effortless.
I love making this recipe because it’s so versatile! You can serve it over pasta, rice, or with a simple side of roasted veggies. And don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce—you won’t want to waste a single drop!
Plus, if you keep frozen shrimp in the freezer like I do, you’re always just minutes away from this restaurant-worthy dish. Trust me, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love My Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fast, delicious dinner without any fuss. It’s one of my favorite go-to meals when I need something quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a rich, delicious sauce that takes these shrimp to the next level. The best part? You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen!
Healthy and Light: Shrimp is a lean source of protein that cooks up in no time. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories, making this dish perfect if you’re looking for something light yet satisfying.
Versatile: Serve this Garlic Butter Shrimp over pasta, rice, or with a side of veggies—there are so many ways to enjoy it! It also makes a great appetizer for a dinner party or family gathering. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Taste: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll get that restaurant-quality flavor at home without the extra calories or cost. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure they are fully peeled and deveined.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Arrange the Shrimp
- Place the shrimp in a single layer in a large baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Wine or Broth
- Pour the dry white wine or chicken broth around the shrimp in the baking dish. This will create steam while baking, keeping the shrimp moist and enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
Step 6: Bake the Shrimp
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp and garnish with lemon slices.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of pasta or rice. It’s also fantastic served with a warm, crusty bread to mop up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.
Helpful Notes:
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will have a sweet, mild smell. If buying frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done!
- Adjust the Heat: Red pepper flakes add a mild kick to this dish. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Ina Garten: Recommends using high-quality unsalted butter for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Giada De Laurentiis: Suggests adding a splash of chicken broth or white wine to enhance the sauce’s flavor without overpowering the shrimp.
- Gordon Ramsay: Advises serving the shrimp immediately after cooking to enjoy them at their most tender and juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well for this recipe. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before using to ensure even cooking. - What can I use instead of white wine?
You can substitute white wine with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or a little extra lemon juice mixed with water. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce and marinate the shrimp up to an hour before baking. - How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. They should curl into a loose “C” shape, not a tight “O,” which indicates they are overcooked. - What type of shrimp should I use?
Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal for this recipe, as they retain moisture and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked. - Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini slices can be added to the baking dish for a more complete meal. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free sides if needed. - Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
You can substitute olive oil for a healthier alternative, though the sauce may be less creamy. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender. - Can I make this spicy?
Yes, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce! This dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends, bringing a burst of flavor to any meal.
