Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce is an easy, elegant dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Juicy shrimp are baked in a rich, buttery sauce infused with fresh lemon and garlic, creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or anytime you want a quick seafood dinner that feels indulgent yet light.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked shrimp recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it ideal when you need something fast but impressive. The lemon butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp without overpowering it. There is no complicated prep, no frying, and very little cleanup. Serve it with rice, pasta, crusty bread, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Unsalted butter
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish. Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well until fully combined.
Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece is well coated.
Bake uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp cook very quickly.
Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp
Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Make sure the shrimp are arranged in a single layer so they cook evenly. If your shrimp are smaller, reduce the baking time slightly to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
For extra flavor, you can broil the shrimp for one to two minutes at the end to lightly caramelize the top.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce pairs beautifully with steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttered pasta. It is also delicious served with crusty bread to soak up every bit of the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for short intervals to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy seafood at home. With tender shrimp, bright lemon, and rich butter, it is a dish that never fails to impress while remaining easy enough for everyday cooking. Give it a try, and it may quickly become one of your favorite shrimp recipes.