Magic Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce is a tasty dish that’s quick to make. Juicy shrimp meet a pool of zesty lemon butter, making every bite delicious!
Honestly, this dish is so good that it could make anyone a shrimp lover! I usually serve it over pasta or rice for a perfect meal. Just watch out for empty plates! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, but feel free to use medium shrimp or even shrimp that’s already cooked to save time. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking!
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using olive oil instead. It won’t have the same richness, but it’ll still be tasty.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here. If you don’t have fresh cloves, you could use garlic powder (about 1/8 teaspoon per clove). I love the robust flavor that fresh garlic brings, though!
Lemon: Fresh lemons give the best juice and zest. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh really takes this dish to the next level. You can also use lime for a different flavor twist.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and flavor. If you don’t have it, basil or cilantro can make a lovely substitute.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, as they cook quickly and can turn rubbery if overcooked. To ensure you get perfectly tender shrimp, watch the color closely. Here’s a simple guide:
- Look for a bright pink color with an opaque center as a sign they are done. They’ll usually take 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Avoid crowding the shrimp in your baking dish. A single layer lets them cook evenly and absorb all that lemon butter goodness.
- If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed before baking to avoid excess water in the dish.
Enjoy making your Magic Baked Shrimp. It’s a delightful dish that showcases simple ingredients beautifully!
How to Make Magic Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in just under 30 minutes, you can have this amazing lemon butter shrimp ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by turning your oven on and preheating it to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready for your shrimp when you finish preparing them.
2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir until it’s all well mixed. This sauce is going to be packed with flavor!
3. Arrange the Shrimp:
Grab a baking dish and arrange your peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. It’s important not to crowd them too much; they like a little space to cook evenly!
4. Pour the Sauce:
Take your lemon butter sauce and pour it over the shrimp. Make sure each shrimp is nicely coated in that glorious sauce. You want them to soak up all that lemony goodness!
5. Bake the Shrimp:
Pop the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque. It’s like magic!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re cooked, remove the shrimp from the oven and sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top. Serve them hot, garnished with lemon slices for a fresh burst of flavor. Enjoy your Magic Baked Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes in a sealed bag. Pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. This will still provide a delicious base for the lemon garlic sauce!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover baked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking. You can add a splash of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can toss in some vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini before baking. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size so they cook evenly with the shrimp. Add a little extra butter and seasoning for a tasty twist!
