Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe in the Oven

Enjoy tender, flavorful shrimp with this easy oven-baked garlic butter recipe. Everything goes into a single baking dish, the oven does the work, and in about 10 minutes you have a buttery, garlicky entrée that’s perfect for quick lunches, weeknight dinners, or simple entertaining.

Shrimp is a fast, protein-rich ingredient that’s easy to cook well when you use the right method. This sheet-pan approach guarantees juicy, succulent shrimp every time. No heavy breading or complicated sauces—just butter, garlic, a touch of paprika, and lemon for brightness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and simple: Ready in about 10 minutes from start to finish.
• Clean ingredients: Uses whole ingredients without breading or added sugars—naturally low in carbs.
• Big flavor: Lemony garlic butter with a hint of paprika complements shrimp perfectly.
• Minimal cleanup: Everything bakes on one sheet for easy cleanup.
• Versatile: Elegant enough for guests yet easy enough for weekday meals.
• Diet-friendly: High-protein, low-carb, gluten-free option suitable for many eating plans.
• Flexible leftovers: Chop leftovers into salads, tacos, or egg dishes the next day.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp

This oven-baked method keeps shrimp juicy and prevents the rubbery texture that comes from overcooking. The process is straightforward: season the shrimp, bake briefly, then garnish with parsley and lemon. The result is bright, buttery shrimp with minimal effort.

Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom for exact measurements and printable instructions.

Ingredients You Need

• Shrimp: 1 pound large or extra-large, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation or off for convenience).
• Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control salt levels.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves, minced for the best flavor.
• Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky note—smoked paprika works well too.
• Salt: Adjust to taste.
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped for garnish.
• Lemon: Cut into wedges and served alongside for brightness.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Prep time is minimal—about 5 minutes—then the oven finishes the cooking. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prep the shrimp

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pat shrimp dry with paper towels—dry shrimp results in better flavor and texture.

Step 2: Coat with seasoning

In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, and salt. Add the shrimp and toss until every piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Bake

Arrange shrimp in a single layer on the prepared sheet and bake for 4–6 minutes, until shrimp turn opaque and firm to the touch. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Garnish and serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. These shrimp are delicious on their own or served over rice, pasta, or a bed of greens.

Substitutions

Simple swaps let you adapt the recipe to your pantry or dietary needs:

• Butter: Use ghee or a drizzle of olive oil to make it dairy-free.
• Garlic: Jarred minced garlic or garlic powder (1 tsp jarred = 1 clove; 1/4 tsp garlic powder per clove) can be used in a pinch.
• Paprika: Try smoked paprika or a pinch of chili powder for heat.
• Parsley: Substitute cilantro, basil, or chives for a different herb profile.
• Shrimp alternatives: If you prefer, scallops or firm white fish work; adjust cooking times accordingly.

Expert Tips

• Pat shrimp dry: Removes excess moisture so the butter coats the shrimp and the pan juices aren’t watery.
• Watch cooking time: Shrimp cook quickly—check at 4 minutes to avoid rubbery texture.
• Double the sauce: If serving over rice or pasta, double the butter-garlic mixture to soak into the grains.
• Add vegetables: Toss in quick-roasting veggies (asparagus tips, halved cherry tomatoes, zucchini) and roast together for a one-pan meal—remove shrimp early if vegetables need more time.
• Make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate the garlic-butter mixture; melt and toss with shrimp when ready to bake.

How to Store This Recipe

Let cooked shrimp cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of butter or olive oil to avoid drying or overcooking. If serving over rice or pasta, reheat the base first, then warm the shrimp briefly at the end.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp

These shrimp pair well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens. For Mediterranean-style meals, serve with roasted vegetables, couscous, or lemony quinoa. A warm crusty bread or toasted bread alternative is great for mopping up the garlic butter.

10-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe