Every time I make this Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp, it takes me back to warm summer evenings spent with family on the patio. The way the aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen just makes my heart sing. I can almost hear the laughter and chatter of my loved ones as they gather around the table, eagerly awaiting this delicious dish. I think there’s something incredibly comforting about sharing a meal that’s both simple and gourmet at the same time. You know exactly what I mean, don’t you? The first bite of those tender, juicy shrimp, perfectly coated in that tangy lemon butter sauce, is always a moment of pure bliss. I know once you try it, you’ll feel the same warmth and comfort!
This dish is not only a favorite at my house, but it’s also one that I love to prepare when I want to impress without stress. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. So let’s dive in and create this wonderful dish together!
How to make Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this lovely dish:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb, large, peeled and deveined |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/4 cup, melted |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons, fresh |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Lemon Zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1/4 teaspoon (optional) |
| Salt and Pepper | to taste |
| Fresh Parsley | for garnish, chopped |
| Lemon Wedges | for serving |
Personal Note: I particularly love using fresh lemon juice and zest—there’s just something about it that brightens up the dish and makes it feel extra special.
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, this is key for that deliciously tender shrimp!
2. Prepare the Shrimp
In a large mixing bowl, add your freshly peeled and deveined shrimp. You want to feel the textures and know you’re working with quality seafood.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and lemon zest. If you enjoy a little heat, toss in those red pepper flakes now. Just a pinch will do—enough to make it interesting without overwhelming the dish!
4. Season the Shrimp
Pour the lemon butter mixture over the shrimp. It’s where the magic begins! Make sure to coat every single piece. You want all those flavors to soak in. This is the part I always look forward to!
5. Arrange in a Baking Dish
Transfer the shrimp to a baking dish. Spread them out in a single layer—it helps them cook evenly and allows the tops to get slightly crispy.
6. Bake
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 10-12 minutes. The shrimp will turn pink and curl slightly when they’re done.
7. Aroma Alert!
Keep an eye (and nose) on it. The fantastic smell of garlic, butter, and lemon will fill your kitchen, and you might find it hard to wait!
8. Garnish
Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, take them out of the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
9. Serve with Lemon Wedges
Don’t forget to serve your Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp with lemon wedges on the side. A little extra squeeze of lemon can elevate each bite!
Why I Love Making This Dish
What makes this dish so special to me is not just the fantastic flavor but how easy it is to prepare. In mere minutes, you can have something that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over. You can whip it up quickly, and there’s something so inviting about serving fresh seafood.
What You’ll Need
You don’t need any fancy tools to make this dish. A simple baking dish and a mixing bowl are all you require. I always use my trusty oven mitts because it keeps everything safe and helps prevent any kitchen mishaps!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by preheating the oven. It’s one of those foundational steps that makes everything else go smoothly.
- Prepare your shrimp. Feel how beautiful and fresh they are!
- Mix that heavenly lemon butter mixture. The aroma will already start to bring a smile to your face.
- Toss the shrimp in the mixture. Get them nice and coated for maximum flavor.
- Spread them out in a baking dish. This will make sure they bake evenly.
- Bake to perfection. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your home fills with delicious scents.
- Garnish and serve! This is the final touch that makes all your effort worthwhile.
Tips for Perfect Results
- For even crispier shrimp, feel free to broil them for a minute or two after baking.
- If you want to switch things up, try adding some diced tomatoes to the baking dish for a vibrant, fresh addition.
- Remember that overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
To complement your Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp, I love serving it with a side of garlic bread for dipping in all that delicious sauce. You could also whip up a simple salad or serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some roasted vegetables.
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, I suggest warming them gently to avoid overcooking. A quick blast in the microwave or a few minutes in a skillet does the trick!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp?
You can, but I highly recommend using fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp will work in a pinch, but they may not have the same flavor and texture.
How can I tell when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are done once they turn pink and opaque. You’ll notice they curl up a bit, too. If you see them getting firm, that’s a good sign they’re there!
What if I don’t have fresh lemon?
If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work as a substitute, but fresh lemon really does make a difference.
Conclusion
This Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp has become a staple in my home; I’m so excited for you to try it. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy it brings. With its easy preparation and delightful flavors, it’s the perfect recipe to share with your loved ones. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! When you make this dish, let me know how it turns out. If your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time, I wouldn’t be surprised one bit!