Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of baked shrimp! It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come home after a long day and just wanted something quick, healthy, and oh-so-delicious. This baked shrimp recipe has become my go-to! It takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish, which means I can still have time to relax after dinner. The shrimp come out juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of garlic and a hint of lemon. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Prepare Baked Shrimp
Preheat the Oven
First things first—let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the shrimp cook evenly and gives them that nice, juicy texture. Plus, you want that oven nice and toasty by the time you’re ready to pop your shrimp in!
Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Now, grab a mixing bowl and add your peeled and deveined shrimp. Drizzle in the olive oil, then toss in the minced garlic, paprika, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This is where the magic begins! Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated. You want all those flavors to soak in, so don’t be shy—get in there and mix it up!
Spread and Bake
Next, take a baking sheet and spread the shrimp mixture in a single layer. This is key because it ensures they cook evenly and get that beautiful color. Pop them in the oven for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them! They’re done when they turn pink and opaque, and they should feel firm to the touch. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!
Garnish and Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, it’s time to plate up! Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that pop of color and flavor. I love serving my baked shrimp with rice or pasta to soak up all those delicious juices. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’ll impress anyone at your table!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk about what you’re getting when you dive into this scrumptious baked shrimp! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, which is about a quarter of the entire recipe. Keep in mind, these numbers are estimates, but they give you a good idea of how this dish fits into your meal plan:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
With all that protein and relatively low carbs, this baked shrimp is not only delicious but also a healthy choice! Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for just about anyone. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen shrimp can be a real time-saver. Just make sure to thaw them first—just leave them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Once they’re thawed, make sure to pat them dry before mixing with the other ingredients. This way, you’ll still get that lovely flavor and juicy texture!
What can I pair with baked shrimp?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving my baked shrimp with fluffy white rice or creamy pasta to soak up those delicious juices. You could also whip up a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a bit of crunch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try some roasted veggies on the side—they add a nice color and flavor contrast!
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Great question! You’ll know the shrimp are done when they turn a lovely pink color and are opaque throughout. They should feel firm to the touch, not mushy. If you want to be extra sure, you can always use a meat thermometer; shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C). Just keep an eye on them—overcooked shrimp can get tough, and nobody wants that!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: This baked shrimp comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a nutritious choice that fits into any meal plan.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of garlic, paprika, and lemon juice creates a mouthwatering taste that will leave you craving more.
- Versatile dish: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Gluten-free: A fantastic option for friends or family members with dietary restrictions.
- Simple cleanup: With just a baking sheet and mixing bowl, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your baked shrimp turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my top tips to ensure you’re getting the best results:
- Choose Quality Shrimp: Always go for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. If you can, buy wild-caught shrimp for the best flavor. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on your shrimp while they bake. They cook quickly, and overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp. Aim for that sweet spot of 8-10 minutes, and remember they’ll continue to cook a little after you take them out of the oven!
- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to match your personal taste. If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. If you’re a lemon lover, squeeze a little extra lemon juice on before serving!
- Use a Non-Stick Baking Sheet: If you have one, use a non-stick baking sheet or line your sheet with parchment paper. This helps the shrimp not to stick and makes cleanup a breeze!
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to switch up the spices! Try adding Italian herbs, a splash of white wine, or even some grated Parmesan cheese for a different twist.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the shrimp sit for a minute or two before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them moist and flavorful.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating the most delicious baked shrimp that will impress anyone lucky enough to share a meal with you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delightful baked shrimp and have some leftovers? No problem at all! Storing them properly is key to keeping that delicious flavor intact. First, let the shrimp cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days—just be sure to seal them tightly to prevent any funky fridge odors from sneaking in!
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating them gently to maintain their juicy texture. You can pop them in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it! Alternatively, for an even better result, try reheating them in a skillet over low heat. This way, you can bring them back to life without drying them out. Just toss them around gently until they’re warmed through. Enjoy your shrimp again, and trust me, they’ll still taste amazing!
For more delicious shrimp recipes, check out this baked shrimp recipe or explore creamy garlic shrimp pasta for a delightful twist!
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Baked Shrimp: 20 Minutes to Joyful Culinary Bliss
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious baked shrimp recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, garlic, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the shrimp mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use large shrimp for better texture.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- Serve with rice or pasta for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: baked shrimp, shrimp recipe, seafood dish
