There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic lemon butter sauce. This baked shrimp recipe is a game-changer, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The citrusy zing of fresh lemon juice, the rich depth of melted butter, and the savory kick of garlic come together in a dish that will have you licking your plate clean.

I first fell in love with this recipe on a summer evening when I needed something quick yet impressive for a last-minute dinner with friends. It turned out to be a showstopper—elegant, effortless, and bursting with flavor. Now, it’s a staple in my weeknight rotation, perfect for busy nights when I want something light yet satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Baked Shrimp With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with this simple yet stunning dish. This baked shrimp recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite for so many reasons.

First, it's incredibly quick and easy. With just a handful of ingredients and a baking time of under 15 minutes, you can have this dish on the table in no time. Perfect for those evenings when you need a hassle-free meal.

It’s also packed with flavor. The balance of garlic, lemon, and butter creates an irresistible sauce that coats every bite of shrimp. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping, you won’t be disappointed.

Not to mention, this recipe is healthy and light. Shrimp is naturally high in protein and low in calories, making this a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, with just a few simple swaps, you can make it dairy-free or low-carb.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Whether you want to spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or add fresh herbs for a Mediterranean twist, this dish is easily customizable to suit your cravings.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

The shrimp is the star of the show. I recommend using large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, for the best texture and flavor. Fresh is always ideal, but frozen shrimp works perfectly as long as you thaw them properly before cooking.

Butter is what gives this dish its rich and velvety sauce. I prefer using unsalted butter so I can control the seasoning. If you’re dairy-free, swap it with a good-quality olive oil or plant-based butter alternative.

You can’t have garlic lemon butter shrimp without garlic! Freshly minced garlic is essential for that punchy, aromatic flavor. Pre-minced garlic in a jar won’t give you the same intensity, so take the extra minute to chop it fresh.

Lemon juice and zest bring a bright, refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a must—bottled lemon juice just doesn’t compare.

A touch of paprika and red pepper flakes adds a mild kick, enhancing the depth of flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference.

How To Make This Baked Shrimp With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

This dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a restaurant-worthy meal in minutes.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, arrange your shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the flavorful sauce.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s fully melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be golden, not brown.

Remove the butter mixture from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and red pepper flakes. Pour this sauce evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece is well-coated.

Bake the shrimp for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.

Once baked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of rice, pasta, or a loaf of warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because shrimp can dry out when reheated, it’s best to warm them gently over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of butter or olive oil.

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as shrimp tend to become rubbery when thawed and reheated. However, you can prepare the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time and freeze it separately for quick future meals.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to fit your tastes.

For a spicier kick, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture before baking.

Want to keep it low-carb? Serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or rice.

If you’re a fan of herbs, try adding fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for a more Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

For a garlic butter shrimp scampi twist, toss the cooked shrimp with linguine and a splash of white wine for an extra layer of richness.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this baked shrimp with garlic lemon butter sauce is guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your ingredients and get ready to impress your family with this effortless yet elegant dish!