If you are searching for a dish that is bursting with flavor yet comes together in a flash, this Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy shrimp infused with the warm smokiness of paprika, the bright zing of lemon, and aromatic garlic combine to create a meal that feels both festive and comforting. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or something special for friends, this recipe manages to be impressively simple while packing a punch in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients that each bring something essential to the table. From the tender shrimp to the fragrant garlic and the zingy lemon juice, every component helps build a harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish sing.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Opt for fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Butter throws in a rich, silky mouthfeel that coats the shrimp perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic kick that is essential for this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Paprika contributes a warm smokiness and vibrant red color to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a slight heat, these flakes bring just a whisper of spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that amplify all the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed): The fresh lemon juice adds brightness that perfectly balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley gives a fresh, green note and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that once your shrimp are ready, they’ll bake quickly and evenly to perfection. Having the oven hot is key to locking in the shrimp’s natural juices and achieving that tender bite.
Step 2: Arrange Shrimp
Lay the peeled and deveined shrimp out in a single layer within a baking dish. Giving the shrimp enough space prevents them from steaming and helps them bake evenly, allowing that beautiful color to develop.
Step 3: Mix the Flavorful Butter Blend
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and if using, the crushed red pepper flakes. This rich, aromatic blend is what will infuse the shrimp with those irresistible flavors that make the Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe so special.
Step 4: Coat Shrimp Evenly
Pour the butter mixture over your shrimp, then gently toss everything together to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. This step guarantees that every shrimp is bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness paired with a kiss of spice.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know the shrimp are perfectly done when they turn pink and opaque, a sign that they are juicy and tender without being overcooked.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon
Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and immediately drizzle with freshly squeezed lemon juice. This fresh acidity brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness and tying all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for a hit of color and a mild herbaceous lift. Serve the dish while warm and watch everyone dive in without hesitation.
How to Serve Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dish with a little extra chopped parsley or a few thin lemon wedges not only amps up the visual appeal but also offers fresh bursts of flavor that guests can add as they please. For an added layer of texture, a light sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or slivered almonds can provide a satisfying crunch.
Side Dishes
This shrimp pairs wonderfully with a simple side of fluffy white rice or a zesty quinoa salad to soak up all the buttery, garlicky juices. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, complement the smoky paprika and add vibrant color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stylish presentation, arrange the shrimp around slices of toasted baguette or atop a bed of creamy polenta. You could even serve it as a tapas-style appetizer on small plates with toothpicks, encouraging a fun, shared dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should remain fresh for up to two days, making them perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on the following day.
Freezing
While fresh is always best for this recipe, you can freeze leftover cooked shrimp by placing them in a freezer-safe bag with minimal air. Consume within a month for the best quality, and avoid freezing if you plan to maintain the delicate butter sauce texture.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying them out. Adding a splash of water or lemon juice before reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before baking. This helps the seasoning stick better and prevents excess moisture from affecting the texture.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Yes! You can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture for a bolder kick that complements the garlic and paprika beautifully.
Can I substitute butter with olive oil?
While butter provides richness and a silky texture, olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative. It will slightly change the flavor profile but still deliver delicious results.
What sides go best with Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe?
Light and fresh sides like a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or lemon-herb rice complement the shrimp the best and balance the bold flavors.
How do I know when the shrimp are done baking?
The shrimp are cooked when they turn pink, become opaque throughout, and curl slightly into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp look too tight in a “O” shape and become rubbery, so keep a close eye during baking.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels indulgent yet is wonderfully easy, this Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a fantastic blend of flavors that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try it. I can’t wait for you to whip it up and enjoy every buttery, garlicky bite!
Print
Baked Shrimp with Garlic, Paprika, and Lemon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This simple and flavorful baked shrimp recipe features large shrimp coated in a savory garlic butter sauce with a hint of paprika and a kick of red pepper flakes. Quickly baked to perfection and finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley, it makes a perfect weeknight meal or elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the shrimp evenly.
- Arrange Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer on a baking dish to allow for even cooking.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to create a flavorful sauce.
- Coat Shrimp: Pour the butter mixture over the shrimp and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly, ensuring each shrimp is infused with the seasoning.
- Bake Shrimp: Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Add Lemon Juice: Remove the shrimp from the oven and drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over the top to add a refreshing citrus brightness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp for color and freshness, then serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to avoid rubbery texture.
- The crushed red pepper flakes add heat; omit or reduce if you prefer milder flavors.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
