The Ultimate Baked Shrimp Recipe: A Delicious, Easy Dish for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful seafood dish, then you’ve come to the right place! This baked shrimp recipe will have your taste buds dancing with joy, offering a delightful combination of juicy shrimp, zesty spices, and a crisp baked finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a party, this recipe will make you the star of any meal. Plus, it’s light, healthy, and packed with protein, making it a great choice for those who want to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.

Why Baked Shrimp?

Shrimp is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can prepare it in a multitude of ways – grilled, sautéed, steamed – but baking it offers a unique combination of texture and flavor. Baked shrimp maintains its tenderness while developing a beautiful golden exterior, thanks to the oven’s even heat. Plus, baking allows the shrimp to soak up all the seasoning and aromatics, resulting in a burst of flavor with every bite.

Another benefit of baked shrimp is its simplicity. It’s an ideal dish for those who may be short on time or new to cooking. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a wholesome and tasty meal on the table in less than 30 minutes. This recipe is also low in carbs, making it a great option for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet.

Now, let’s get into the details of how to prepare this mouth-watering dish!

Ingredients for Baked Shrimp

The beauty of this baked shrimp recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients to create an unforgettable meal.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for extra flavor)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before you begin preparing the shrimp, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake the shrimp, giving them a beautifully golden and crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Take your peeled and deveined shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp will absorb the seasoning better and bake more evenly. Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Season the Shrimp

Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and add the minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Gently toss the shrimp to coat them evenly in the oil and seasonings. Make sure each shrimp is well covered, as this is where all the flavor comes from.

Step 4: Arrange the Shrimp

Lay the seasoned shrimp out in a single layer on a large baking sheet. For even cooking, it’s important that the shrimp aren’t overlapping. If necessary, use two baking sheets to give each piece enough space.

Step 5: Bake the Shrimp

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, with a slight curl. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if baked too long.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Once the shrimp are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately drizzle them with fresh lemon juice. This adds a bright, zesty note that complements the rich seasonings beautifully. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Your baked shrimp are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them hot, garnished with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp

Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp will always deliver the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp are a great alternative – just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure the shrimp are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they’re piled on top of each other, they’ll steam instead of bake, resulting in a less desirable texture.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer your shrimp on the spicier side, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you’re serving this dish to someone who isn’t a fan of heat, you can omit the red pepper altogether.
Serving suggestions: This baked shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it alongside a fresh green salad, some roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta dish. It’s also fantastic as a topping for rice or quinoa, making for a complete and balanced meal.

Health Benefits of Shrimp

Shrimp are not only delicious, but they also come with a host of health benefits. They’re an excellent source of high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscles. Shrimp are also low in calories and contain essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and iodine, all of which contribute to heart health, cognitive function, and thyroid regulation.

In addition, shrimp are rich in antioxidants like astaxanthin, which can help reduce inflammation and promote skin health. So, not only will you be indulging in a tasty treat, but you’ll also be nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), you can easily store them for later. Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes, or quickly sauté them in a skillet until warmed through. Avoid microwaving shrimp, as this can cause them to become rubbery.

Final Thoughts

Baked shrimp is a quick, easy, and healthy option that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The flavors are bold, yet simple, and the preparation is a breeze. Plus, shrimp’s numerous health benefits make it a smart choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

So next time you’re in need of a satisfying seafood dish, give this baked shrimp recipe a try. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, and your family and friends will be asking for seconds!