Baked Garlic Shrimp

Name: Baked Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making baked garlic shrimp for a quick and flavorful meal. This dish combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce that's hard to resist. Each bite is infused with fresh herbs and a hint of heat from the red pepper flakes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it comes together in just a few minutes, bringing a taste of the coast right to my kitchen. Serve it with crusty bread or over pasta, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:04:34.502Z

When I first tried baked garlic shrimp, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it was. The technique of baking the shrimp allows the garlic and butter to infuse their flavors deeply, creating a robust sauce that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

I learned to be generous with the garlic and to use fresh herbs whenever possible; they really elevate the dish. A tip I always follow is to not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough – just cook until they turn opaque for the perfect texture!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Perfectly customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

Unlocking Flavor with Garlic

Garlic plays a significant role in this baked garlic shrimp recipe, infusing the shrimp with a rich and aromatic flavor. I recommend using fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced garlic for the best taste. When you mince the garlic, ensure it's finely chopped to release its oils and aroma, enhancing the overall dish. Cooked correctly, the garlic will turn sweet and mellow, balancing the heat from the red pepper flakes perfectly.

The combination of garlic and butter not only adds depth but also helps achieve a glossy sauce that clings to the shrimp. This texture is essential for incorporating the flavors into every bite. If you wish to customize the flavor profile, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to further elevate the dish.

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Tips and Tricks

Cooking shrimp can be tricky, as overcooking leads to a rubbery texture. For this recipe, aim for a baking time of 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Watch for the shrimp to turn a vibrant pink color and become opaque. If you're unsure, cut one shrimp in half to check if it has reached a tender state; it should not be translucent inside. Using a single layer in the baking dish allows for even cooking, ensuring each shrimp bakes perfectly.

If you're scaling this recipe up for a crowd, maintain the same baking temperature but consider using multiple baking dishes to prevent overcrowding. This way, you avoid steaming the shrimp, which would compromise that desired texture. Always taste a shrimp before serving to adjust seasoning, if necessary; the butter and garlic may need extra salt depending on your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Baked Garlic Shrimp

1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.

Bake the Shrimp

Spread the shrimp mixture in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Finish and Serve

Remove from oven, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

Serve your baked garlic shrimp with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce!

Serving Suggestions

Baked garlic shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a simple approach, serve it atop a bed of al dente pasta, tossing everything in the buttery garlic sauce. This creates a deliciously rich dish that feels gourmet yet is quite easy to prepare. Alternatively, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the leftover sauce, adding a lovely texture contrast.

If you're looking to make it a complete meal, consider adding some sautéed seasonal vegetables or a fresh green salad on the side. This not only elevates the dish but also brings a balance of flavors and nutrients to your table.

Storage and Reheating

For any leftovers, store the baked garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help maintain the shrimp's texture, unlike microwaving, which can lead to overcooked and chewy shrimp.

If you anticipate having leftovers or want to prep ahead, consider marinating the shrimp in the garlic butter mixture and then storing it uncooked in the refrigerator for a day. When you're ready to bake, just pour it into the baking dish and follow the cooking instructions. This method allows the shrimp to soak up the flavors more intensely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I serve with baked garlic shrimp?

It's great with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the shrimp mixture and refrigerate it before baking.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Add more or fewer red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.