Baked Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Introduction
Shrimp is one of the most beloved seafood choices worldwide, offering a delightful combination of succulence and flavor. This Baked Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together juicy shrimp, rich butter, aromatic garlic, and a crispy golden topping. Whether you’re serving this as a main course, an appetizer, or a luxurious side dish, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The simplicity of the preparation, coupled with the incredible flavors, makes it perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant dinner parties.
If you love seafood and crave a dish that’s bursting with garlic, butter, and a hint of crunch, this is the recipe for you. Let’s dive into the history, benefits, ingredients, methods, nutrition, and everything you need to know about making the perfect Baked Garlic Butter Shrimp!
History of Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic butter shrimp has its roots in various coastal cuisines across the world. Shrimp dishes have long been a staple in Mediterranean, Asian, and American cuisines. The combination of garlic and butter originated in French cuisine, where “beurre à la bourguignonne†(garlic butter) was a classic pairing for escargot. This concept was later adapted to seafood, particularly shrimp, due to its ability to absorb flavors so well.
Italian, Spanish, and Cajun cuisines also have their versions of garlic butter shrimp, each with unique seasonings and accompaniments. Today, baked garlic butter shrimp is a popular dish in American kitchens, often served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Benefits of Baked Garlic Butter Shrimp
1. High in Protein
Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, helping to support muscle growth and repair. A single serving provides a high amount of protein with minimal calories.
2. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Seafood is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, brain function, and reduced inflammation.
3. Packed with Essential Vitamins & Minerals
Shrimp is loaded with vitamins such as B12, D, and E, along with essential minerals like zinc, iodine, and selenium, which are vital for immune function and metabolism.
4. Low in Calories and Carbs
If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, this dish is perfect. It is low in carbohydrates and provides healthy fats from butter.
5. Delicious and Versatile
The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates an irresistible flavor that pairs well with various side dishes like pasta, rice, or vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
• 1.5 lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
For the Crispy Topping:
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. This will create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated in the garlic butter mixture. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, oregano, thyme, and olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp.
Step 5: Bake the Shrimp
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. If you prefer a crispier topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
• With Pasta – Toss the shrimp with cooked pasta and extra garlic butter sauce.
• With Rice – Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
• With Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce.
• As an Appetizer – Serve in a platter with toothpicks for an easy party dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values)
• Calories: 280
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg
Lovers of Baked Garlic Butter Shrimp
This dish is adored by:
• Seafood lovers who enjoy succulent shrimp with rich flavors.
• Busy home cooks looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal.
• Keto and low-carb dieters who appreciate a high-protein, low-carb dish.
• Party hosts who want an elegant and simple appetizer.
• Kids and families who love buttery, garlicky goodness.
Conclusion
Baked Garlic Butter Shrimp is a must-try recipe that perfectly balances simplicity with indulgence. The combination of juicy shrimp, rich garlic butter, crispy parmesan breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs makes it an irresistible dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing an impressive dish for guests, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. It is packed with flavor, nutrients, and versatility, making it one of the best shrimp recipes you’ll ever try.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the ultimate garlic butter shrimp experience!