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Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp

This dish checks every box: it’s fast, elegant, healthy-ish, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as a light main course, a dinner party appetizer, or a protein-packed topper for salads and pastas, it’s a winner every single time. With minimal prep and big flavor, this is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Prep Time10 minutes
Active Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Garlic Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp
Yield: 4

Equipment

  • Baking dish (9x13 inch or similar)
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven or countertop toaster oven

Materials

  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon juiced (plus extra slices for garnish)
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
  • > Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes for heat lemon zest for more zing, or Parmesan cheese for richness.
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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

  • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when your shrimp are assembled and sauced.
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Step 2: Make the Garlic-Lemon Butter Sauce

  • In a small bowl, whisk together:
  • Melted butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Paprika
  • Italian seasoning
  • This sauce is the flavor powerhouse of the dish—tangy, savory, and perfectly garlicky.
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Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp

  • Place shrimp in a single layer in your baking dish. Tails-on adds a nice presentation, but you can remove them if preferred. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the shrimp, making sure they’re all evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Step 4: Bake the Shrimp

  • Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, firm, and cooked through. The sauce will bubble, and the shrimp will curl into a “C” shape when done—just be careful not to overcook them!
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Step 5: Garnish & Serve

  • Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Add a few lemon slices or wedges for garnish and extra zing.
  • > Pro Tip: Want to elevate it further? Finish with a light dusting of Parmesan or a pinch of chili flakes.
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