Garlic Shrimp Bake
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: Approximately 340 per serving
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press or knife
- Silicone spatula
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
- Melted butter
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Smoked paprika
- Onion powder
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Whisk until everything is fully combined.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels.
Add the shrimp to the garlic butter mixture and gently toss until every shrimp is evenly coated.
Allow the shrimp to marinate for 5 minutes while the oven finishes preheating.
Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish
Spread the shrimp in a single layer inside the prepared baking dish.
Pour any remaining garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp.
The shrimp are done when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a loose “C” shape.
Avoid overcooking, as shrimp become firm and rubbery when baked too long.
Step 6: Garnish
Remove the baking dish from the oven.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp.
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over each serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Shrimp Bake pairs wonderfully with:
- Buttered pasta
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Garlic bread
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Green beans
- Caesar salad
- Mashed potatoes
- Zucchini noodles
- Quinoa
- Roasted baby potatoes
- Fresh garden salad
It also makes a delicious filling for tacos, wraps, or grain bowls.
Helpful Tips
- Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor, but frozen shrimp work well if completely thawed.
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to help the butter and spices adhere.
- Fresh garlic creates the richest flavor compared to garlic powder.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish, as this can cause the shrimp to steam rather than bake evenly.
- Add sliced cherry tomatoes or asparagus to the pan for a complete one-dish meal.
- Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving for added richness.
Recipe Variations
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Bake
Stir ¼ cup of heavy cream into the garlic butter mixture before baking for a richer sauce.
Mediterranean Style
Add sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, capers, and crumbled feta cheese before baking.
Cajun Garlic Shrimp
Replace the oregano and thyme with Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy flavor.
Herb Lover’s Version
Mix fresh basil, dill, parsley, and chives into the garlic butter for an herb-forward dish.
Low-Carb Version
Serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter meal.
Storage Instructions
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing.
Place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
For the best texture, reheat gently.
Oven
Place the shrimp in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 325°F (163°C) for about 8–10 minutes.
Stovetop
Heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of butter or broth until warmed through.
Microwave
Microwave in 30-second intervals on medium power until just heated. Avoid overheating to keep the shrimp tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can coat the shrimp in the garlic butter mixture and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking.
Do I need to leave the tails on?
No. Tail-off shrimp are easier to eat, but leaving the tails on can make for a more elegant presentation.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Replace the butter with additional olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 34 g
- Total Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Dietary Fiber: 0 g
- Sugars: 1 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Cholesterol: 285 mg
- Potassium: 320 mg
- Calcium: 8% Daily Value
- Iron: 15% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 12% Daily Value
