Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp

When it comes to quick, flavorful dinners, Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp might just be the crown jewel. Juicy shrimp bathed in zesty lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and rich melted butter—then baked to tender perfection in just 15 minutes—what’s not to love?

This dish checks every box: it’s fast, elegant, healthy-ish, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as a light main course, a dinner party appetizer, or a protein-packed topper for salads and pastas, it’s a winner every single time. With minimal prep and big flavor, this is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

 Quick & easy – Ready in 25 minutes, start to finish

 Minimal ingredients – Pantry staples with huge flavor payoff

 Healthy & protein-packed – Light but satisfying

 Versatile – Serve over rice, pasta, salad, or with crusty bread

 Perfect for any occasion – Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights

 Ingredients for Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon, juiced (plus extra slices for garnish)

½ tsp paprika

½ tsp Italian seasoning

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes for heat, lemon zest for more zing, or Parmesan cheese for richness.

 Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Cutting board & knife
• Measuring spoons
• Oven or countertop toaster oven

 Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~220 per serving

 How to Make Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when your shrimp are assembled and sauced.

Step 2: Make the Garlic-Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

Melted butter

Minced garlic

Freshly squeezed lemon juice

Paprika

Italian seasoning

This sauce is the flavor powerhouse of the dish—tangy, savory, and perfectly garlicky.

Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp

Place shrimp in a single layer in your baking dish. Tails-on adds a nice presentation, but you can remove them if preferred. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the shrimp, making sure they’re all evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Bake the Shrimp

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, firm, and cooked through. The sauce will bubble, and the shrimp will curl into a “C” shape when done—just be careful not to overcook them!

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Add a few lemon slices or wedges for garnish and extra zing.

Pro Tip: Want to elevate it further? Finish with a light dusting of Parmesan or a pinch of chili flakes.

 Serving Suggestions

Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp is delicious on its own—but even better when paired with:

Carbs & Grains

Steamed white or jasmine rice

Garlic butter linguine or angel hair pasta

Creamy polenta

Quinoa or couscous

Mashed potatoes

Veggie Sides

Roasted asparagus or green beans

Grilled zucchini or squash

Sauteed spinach or kale

A crisp garden or Caesar salad

Breads

Crusty French baguette

Garlic breadsticks

Buttery dinner rolls

 Tips for the Best Baked Shrimp

Use large or jumbo shrimp – They stay juicy and are easier to cook without overdoing it.

Don’t overbake – Shrimp only need 12–15 minutes max; overcooked shrimp = rubbery.

Fresh lemon juice – Always go with fresh if possible for better brightness and tang.

Tail-on for looks, tail-off for convenience – Your choice depending on how you’re serving it.

Adjust seasoning to taste – Add spice, herbs, or even a touch of white wine for your own spin.

 Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Shrimp

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture for heat.

2. Shrimp Scampi Bake

Swap Italian seasoning for parsley and thyme, add a splash of dry white wine, and toss over pasta.

3. Herb-Infused

Add chopped fresh dill, rosemary, or basil to the butter sauce.

4. Mediterranean Style

Toss in halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and crumbled feta after baking for a Greek twist.

 Storage & Reheating

To Store:

Refrigerate leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Avoid the microwave—it can make shrimp rubbery!

Note: Shrimp are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated if needed with care.

 Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbs: 2g
  (Macros vary slightly based on shrimp size and butter brand used)

 Final Thoughts

This Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp is everything we love in a recipe: quick, easy, flavorful, and versatile. It’s a go-to dish that works for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or even elegant dinner parties. You’ll love how such a simple combination of ingredients turns into something so satisfying and beautiful.

The buttery garlic-laced sauce with bright lemon zing transforms ordinary shrimp into something restaurant-worthy, right from your own kitchen. So whether you’re serving this up with pasta, rice, or just a side of crusty bread—don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds.