Baked Shrimp

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Baked Shrimp is a quick and vibrant dish that captures the bold flavors of the sea with every bite. It’s tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned with a smoky paprika and garlic blend that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The shrimp are roasted just until golden and succulent, offering that delightful balance of crisp edges and plump centers. With a finishing sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon, each bite is bright, savory, and unforgettable.

This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver and a dinner party showstopper all in one. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for two, Baked Shrimp delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s ready in under 20 minutes, and pairs effortlessly with everything from pasta and rice to fresh salads and crusty bread. It’s hard to beat the elegance and simplicity packed into this one-pan seafood favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Shrimp Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Cooks in under 15 minutes with no need for complicated prep.
• Healthy and Light: Low in carbs, high in protein, and full of nutrients.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, pasta, or enjoy it on its own.
• Crowd Pleaser: Simple flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything bakes on one pan for easy cleanup.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into the seasoning and baking, it’s essential to gather the right tools to ensure your Baked Shrimp turns out perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

• Baking Sheet or Oven-Safe Dish: A rimmed baking sheet or a ceramic baking dish is key for even roasting. It helps the shrimp cook uniformly and allows space for the seasoning to caramelize without crowding.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for tossing shrimp with oil and spices to ensure they are evenly coated.
• Tongs or Silicone Spatula: These help gently mix and spread the shrimp onto the pan without tearing their delicate texture.
• Measuring Spoons: Precision is key for seasoning—too much paprika or garlic can overpower, while too little leaves the dish bland.
• Microplane or Garlic Press: If you’re using fresh garlic, a microplane or press ensures the garlic blends into the oil for full flavor infusion.
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper (Optional): Lining the pan helps with quick cleanup and prevents sticking.

Having these tools ready speeds up your prep and makes the cooking process seamless.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Large or Jumbo Shrimp: They’re meatier and less likely to overcook. Look for peeled and deveined shrimp to save time.
• Pat Dry the Shrimp: Moisture prevents a good roast. Blot them dry with paper towels before tossing with oil and spices.
• Don’t Skip the Marinate Time: Even a quick 5-minute rest in the seasoning mix can enhance flavor.
• Preheat the Oven Fully: A hot oven gives the shrimp a perfect sear and keeps them juicy inside.
• Spread Evenly in One Layer: Avoid overlapping shrimp on the baking sheet—this ensures they roast, not steam.

These small details go a long way in making your shrimp turn out restaurant-quality.

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Ingredients for This Baked Shrimp Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life. These ingredients are simple yet powerful, working together to create bold, savory flavors with a hint of citrus freshness.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off based on preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

These ingredients balance rich spices with a burst of brightness from lemon and parsley, turning shrimp into a crave-worthy, crowd-pleasing dish.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. A hot oven ensures the shrimp roast quickly and develop that golden edge.

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Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss thoroughly until all shrimp are evenly coated with the spice mixture.

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Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not overlapping so they roast rather than steam.

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Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the shrimp in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque with slightly crisped edges. Avoid overcooking—they cook quickly!

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Step 5: Add Final Touches

Remove the shrimp from the oven. Immediately squeeze lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. This final layer of freshness elevates the flavor beautifully.

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Step 6: Serve Warm

Transfer the baked shrimp to a serving dish or plate directly from the oven. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.

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Notes

• Shrimp Size Matters: This recipe is best with large or jumbo shrimp. Smaller ones cook too fast and can turn rubbery.
• Frozen Shrimp Tip: If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
• Garlic Alternative: Don’t have fresh garlic? Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder instead.
• Spice Customization: Adjust the paprika and chili flakes to your heat preference—mild or fiery.
• Make It a Meal: You can toss these shrimp with cooked pasta, pile them over rice, or stuff them into tacos.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Pan: Crowding traps steam and makes shrimp soggy. Always spread them in a single layer.
• Skipping the Preheat: Cold ovens lead to uneven cooking. Always let your oven heat up fully before baking.
• Using Wet Shrimp: Moisture prevents browning. Dry shrimp roast better and take on more flavor.
• Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly—overbaking will make them chewy. Watch closely and pull them as soon as they’re opaque.
• Forgetting the Lemon: That little squeeze of lemon adds vital brightness to balance the smoky spices.

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What to Serve With Baked Shrimp?

Pairing your Baked Shrimp with the right side dishes can turn this simple entrée into a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious ideas to round out your plate:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Butter Rice – Fluffy rice tossed in garlic and herbs makes a perfect bed for juicy shrimp.
2. Lemon Herb Couscous – Light and zesty, this side mirrors the citrus in the shrimp.
3. Creamy Polenta – A smooth, buttery contrast to the crisp baked shrimp.
4. Grilled Asparagus – Adds a charred, fresh crunch that complements the seafood.
5. Crusty Bread – Ideal for sopping up the lemony juices left on the pan.
6. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine and creamy dressing add texture and richness.
7. Pasta with Olive Oil and Herbs – Simple pasta lets the shrimp shine without overwhelming flavors.
8. Roasted Veggie Medley – A colorful mix of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers brings balance and nutrition.

Each option works beautifully depending on whether you’re serving a light lunch or a hearty dinner.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, Baked Shrimp stores well with a few simple steps:

• Refrigerator: Let the shrimp cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in 15-second bursts to prevent overcooking.
• Freezing: While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Avoid repeated reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on a recipe serving 4)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 190mg
• Sodium: 520mg
• Sugar: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Serving Size: Approximately 4 ounces of shrimp
• Diet: Low carb, high protein, dairy-free

These values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and shrimp size used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well—just ensure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and baking.

2. Do I need to peel the shrimp before baking?

Peeled shrimp are ideal for ease of eating, but you can leave the tails on for presentation or added flavor.

3. How do I know when the shrimp are done?

They turn pink, opaque, and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will become stiff and rubbery.

4. Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

5. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, baked shrimp can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, great for lunches or quick dinners.

6. What other seasonings can I try?

Cajun, Old Bay, or Italian seasoning blends are excellent alternatives if you want to switch up the flavor.

7. Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

8. What kind of shrimp should I buy?

Look for large or jumbo shrimp, ideally wild-caught. Make sure they are deveined for best results.

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Conclusion

Baked Shrimp is a winning combination of ease, elegance, and robust flavor. With minimal prep and a quick cook time, it’s the kind of dish that fits into a busy weeknight yet feels special enough for entertaining. Whether paired with a crisp salad, buttery rice, or roasted veggies, this shrimp delivers a satisfying bite every time. Keep this recipe in your rotation—you’ll find endless ways to enjoy it, and it never gets old.

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