Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Introduction

Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. This recipe features shrimp baked in a zesty garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon, making it both simple and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the shrimp: Spread the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Make the garlic lemon butter sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well mixed.
4. Coat the shrimp: Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over the shrimp, ensuring all shrimp are coated.
5. Bake the shrimp: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through (shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 145°F).
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the shrimp hot with extra lemon wedges for squeezing on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• For Extra Spice: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of heavy cream into the sauce before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? For best results, prepare and cook the shrimp just before serving.
3. What should I serve with this dish? It pairs well with pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread.
4. Can I use other types of seafood? Yes, this sauce works well with scallops or lobster.
5. Is there a substitute for fresh lemon juice? You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is preferred for the best flavor.
6. Can I use salted butter? Unsalted butter is recommended to control the amount of added salt.
7. How do I know when the shrimp are done? They should be pink and opaque, and have an internal temperature of 145°F.
8. Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes, try adding some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor.
9. Can I make the sauce in advance? The sauce can be mixed ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked Shrimp with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright flavors and simple preparation, it’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the vibrant taste of this shrimp dish with your favorite sides!

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