Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe
Looking for the best Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp recipe? This easy seafood dish features tender, juicy shrimp baked in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce with fresh herbs and a hint of paprika. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner, appetizer, or elegant meal served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in just 20 minutes
Rich garlic butter and fresh lemon flavor
Juicy, tender shrimp every time
One-pan recipe with easy cleanup
High in protein and naturally low in carbs
Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining
⏱️ Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
🛒 Ingredients
For the Shrimp
2 lbs (900 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
6 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of 1 large lemon
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Garnish
Lemon slices
Fresh parsley
Freshly grated Parmesan (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
Season with:
Salt
Black pepper
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Lemon Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together:
Melted butter
Garlic
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Italian seasoning
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Pour the sauce evenly over the shrimp.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender and juicy.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and, if desired, grated Parmesan.
Serve with:
Buttered linguine
Garlic bread
Steamed rice
Roasted asparagus
Broccoli
Fresh garden salad
Add lemon slices for an extra burst of citrus.
💡 Chef’s Tips
Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture.
Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to help the butter sauce cling better.
Broil for the final 1–2 minutes for lightly golden edges.
🧊 Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter to maintain moisture.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 330
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 610mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw them completely, pat them dry, and season before baking.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely. Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
What side dishes pair well with Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, garlic bread, or quinoa all pair beautifully with this dish.
