Introduction
Discover the ultimate Baked Butter Lemon Shrimp Recipe that transforms ordinary shrimp into a zesty, buttery masterpiece. Perfectly baked in the oven, each shrimp is infused with bright lemon, savory garlic, and rich melted butter, delivering an irresistible flavor in minutes. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, entertaining guests, or craving a light, protein-packed meal, this recipe guarantees a juicy, restaurant-quality experience at home.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Imagine the aroma of garlic and lemon filling your kitchen while the shrimp roast to pink perfection. This recipe isn’t just easy—it’s a flavor-packed delight that makes any dinner feel extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Butter Lemon Shrimp Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes of baking—perfect for weeknights.
Juicy & Flavorful: Butter and lemon penetrate each shrimp for a mouthwatering taste.
Healthy Protein: Low in carbs, high in protein—ideal for keto or low-calorie diets.
Budget-Friendly: Minimal ingredients, big taste.
Versatile: Serve over pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful—kids and adults alike love it.
Customizable: Adjust garlic, lemon, or spice levels to suit your palate.
Ingredients
Shrimp
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce & Seasoning
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish & Serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Tips & Substitutions:
Butter alternatives: Use ghee or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Shrimp size: Jumbo or extra-large shrimp work well, but adjust baking time slightly.
Herbs: Swap oregano for thyme or parsley for a fresh twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). A fully preheated oven ensures the shrimp cook evenly, achieving that perfect pink color and firm, juicy texture.
2. Arrange the Shrimp
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lay the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum exposure to the lemon butter sauce.
3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. The fat in the butter and olive oil helps transfer flavor while the acid from lemon juice brightens the dish.
4. Coat the Shrimp
Pour the sauce over the shrimp, gently tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This step maximizes flavor absorption and prevents dry spots.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking; shrimp cook rapidly and continue to firm slightly after removal.
6. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges. The fresh herb aroma enhances the buttery, citrusy flavor, making it irresistible.
Pro Tips
How do you prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Bake at a high temperature for a short time. Remove the shrimp from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque—carryover heat will finish cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep the sauce in advance and store shrimp in a covered dish in the fridge. Bake fresh just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon?
Lemon juice from a bottle works, but fresh lemon zest is recommended for aromatic brightness.
Best Ways to Serve
Over creamy pasta for a decadent weeknight dinner
With steamed rice or quinoa for a light, healthy option
As a protein-packed salad topper with greens, avocado, and cherry tomatoes
Paired with garlic bread for soaking up the buttery sauce
Internal Link Suggestion: See also Garlic Butter Steak Bites Recipe for another rich, savory dinner idea.
Nutrition (Per Serving, 4 Servings)
Calories: 220
Protein: 25g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 380mg
Note: Nutritional values vary based on shrimp size and butter quantity.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as shrimp texture degrades.
Reheating: Quickly sauté in a pan or microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely before baking to ensure even cooking and proper sauce absorption.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Light sides like roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or couscous complement the lemon butter shrimp perfectly.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a mild kick.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! With minimal carbs and high protein, this is perfect for low-carb and keto diets.
Variations
Garlic Lemon Baked Shrimp: Increase garlic for extra pungency.
Sheet Pan Lemon Butter Shrimp: Roast shrimp with vegetables for a one-pan meal.
Spicy Lemon Butter Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper or hot paprika.
Dairy-Free Version: Use olive oil or vegan butter in place of regular butter.
Conclusion
This Baked Butter Lemon Shrimp Recipe is your go-to for effortless, juicy, flavorful shrimp that impress every time. From weeknight dinners to casual entertaining, it’s quick, healthy, and utterly irresistible. Unlock your kitchen’s full potential and elevate your shrimp game—serve it over pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, and watch everyone come back for seconds!