Baked Shrimp: Easy Recipe & Perfect Cooking Time

Baked Shrimp: succulent, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare! Are you craving a seafood dish that’s both elegant enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a weeknight meal? Look no further. This recipe delivers perfectly cooked shrimp every single time, without the fuss of frying or grilling.

While shrimp has been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures, baking it offers a modern twist that maximizes flavor and minimizes effort. Think of the Mediterranean, where seafood is a staple, often baked with herbs and lemon. Or perhaps the coastal regions of the Americas, where shrimp bakes are a communal celebration. This baked shrimp recipe draws inspiration from these traditions, offering a versatile base that you can customize to your own taste.

People adore baked shrimp for its delightful combination of textures and tastes. The shrimp remains tender and juicy, never rubbery, and the baking process allows the flavors of the seasonings to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! With minimal prep time and a short cooking duration, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience the deliciousness of perfectly baked shrimp!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp (21-25 count), peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Shrimp:

1. Prepare the shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. If you bought frozen shrimp, thaw them completely under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear and preventing them from steaming in the oven. Excess moisture will hinder browning.
2. Marinate the shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, white wine, lemon juice, melted butter, parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. This marinade is the key to infusing the shrimp with flavor.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade: Add the shrimp to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Ensure every shrimp is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. Don’t marinate for longer than 30 minutes, as the lemon juice can start to “cook” the shrimp and make them tough.

Baking the Shrimp:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting the shrimp in. This ensures even cooking and prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
2. Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish (an 8×8 inch or 9×13 inch dish works well) with olive oil or cooking spray. You can also use a cast iron skillet for a rustic presentation.
3. Arrange the shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Avoid overcrowding the dish, as this will cause the shrimp to steam instead of bake. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
4. Pour over the marinade: Pour the remaining marinade over the shrimp in the baking dish. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the marinade.
5. Bake the shrimp: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and cooked through. The exact baking time will depend on the size of your shrimp and your oven. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. The shrimp are done when they curl into a “C” shape.

Serving:

1. Check for doneness: To ensure the shrimp are cooked through, cut into one of the larger shrimp. It should be opaque and no longer translucent. If it’s still translucent, return the dish to the oven for another minute or two.
2. Garnish and serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the shrimp.
3. Serving suggestions: Baked shrimp is delicious served as an appetizer or as a main course. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with pasta, rice, or a side salad.
4. Pairing suggestions: Consider serving the baked shrimp over a bed of linguine or angel hair pasta, tossed with some of the pan sauce. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the shrimp. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.
5. Wine pairing: The dry white wine used in the recipe (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) would also be a great wine to serve with the dish. The acidity of the wine will cut through the richness of the butter and complement the lemon and garlic flavors.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Add vegetables: You can add vegetables to the baking dish along with the shrimp. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini are all good options. Add them to the dish a few minutes before the shrimp, as they will take longer to cook.
• Use different herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Oregano, thyme, or basil would all be delicious additions to the marinade.
• Add cheese: For a richer dish, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp before baking.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the shrimp and marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer the shrimp to a baking dish and bake as directed.
• Broiling option: For a quicker cooking method, you can broil the shrimp instead of baking them. Preheat your broiler and place the baking dish under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
• Garlic butter shrimp scampi variation: Increase the amount of butter to 1/2 cup and add an extra clove or two of garlic for a shrimp scampi-inspired dish. Serve over pasta for a complete meal.
• Lemon herb shrimp: Use a combination of lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano for a bright and flavorful dish.
• Coconut shrimp variation: For a tropical twist, dredge the shrimp in shredded coconut before baking. This will add a slightly sweet and crunchy texture.
• Spicy Cajun shrimp: Use Cajun seasoning in the marinade for a spicy and flavorful dish. Serve with rice and beans for a complete Cajun meal.

Troubleshooting:

• Shrimp are rubbery: This usually means the shrimp were overcooked. Be sure to keep a close eye on them while they’re baking and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re pink and opaque.
• Shrimp are not browning: Make sure your oven is fully preheated and that the shrimp are not overcrowded in the baking dish. Patting the shrimp dry before marinating them will also help them brown better.
• Sauce is too thin: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it in a saucepan over medium heat for a few minutes after the shrimp are cooked. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce while it’s simmering.
• Sauce is too thick: If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of white wine or chicken broth to thin it out.
• Shrimp are sticking to the pan: Make sure you grease the baking dish well before adding the shrimp. You can also use parchment paper to line the baking dish.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 5-10g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This baked shrimp recipe is truly a game-changer, transforming a simple ingredient into a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort. I know what you’re thinking: “Baked shrimp? Really?” But trust me on this one. The combination of the succulent shrimp, the zesty lemon, the fragrant garlic, and the subtle kick of red pepper flakes creates a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. What more could you ask for?

But the real magic lies in its versatility. This isn’t just a one-trick pony. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a heartier meal, serve the baked shrimp over a bed of creamy polenta or fluffy quinoa. The creamy texture of the polenta or the nutty flavor of the quinoa perfectly complements the bright and zesty shrimp. Alternatively, toss it with your favorite pasta – linguine, fettuccine, or even penne would work beautifully. Add a splash of the reserved baking liquid to the pasta for an extra burst of flavor.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, try serving the baked shrimp as part of a vibrant salad. Combine it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy meal. You could even add some avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats. Another fantastic option is to use the baked shrimp as a filling for tacos or wraps. The possibilities are truly endless!

For variations, consider adding different herbs and spices to the marinade. A sprinkle of dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary can add a wonderful depth of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky and savory twist. You can also adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

And don’t forget the cheese! A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese over the baked shrimp before serving adds a salty and savory element that takes it to the next level. If you’re feeling really indulgent, you could even add a dollop of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

I’m confident that this baked shrimp recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or simply when you’re craving a flavorful and satisfying meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, your variations, and your feedback in the comments below. Let me know what you think and how you made it your own. I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how they’re putting their own spin on my recipes. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what delicious creations you come up with!

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