Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp – Easy 20-Minute Dinner Recipe

If there’s one dish that never lets me down on a hectic weeknight—or even when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen—it’s garlic butter baked shrimp. This recipe is the definition of “effortless elegance.” You’ve got rich, melted butter. You’ve got that irresistible aroma of freshly minced garlic wafting through the kitchen. You’ve got lemon juice adding a little zippy brightness. And finally, you’ve got perfectly baked shrimp that are tender, juicy, and coated in that dreamy garlic-lemon-butter sauce. Honestly, it doesn’t get much better than that.

I first made this recipe out of desperation on a busy Wednesday evening. The fridge was half-empty, and I needed dinner on the table fast. I had a bag of frozen shrimp, a stick of butter, some garlic, and a lemon. That was it. But when I pulled the pan out of the oven and tasted that buttery, garlicky shrimp, I knew I had just found a new favorite. And the best part? My family devoured every bite in silence—which, if you’ve ever fed a table of picky eaters, you know is the highest praise.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to make it just right. It now lives on a printed card taped inside my pantry door because I use it that often. Whether I’m tossing it over a bed of pasta, serving it alongside some roasted veggies, or spooning it onto warm rice, this shrimp recipe never disappoints.

This dish proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients really do create the most magical results. So if you’re looking for a fast, flavorful, and foolproof seafood dish that comes together in just minutes, this garlic butter baked shrimp is going to become your new go-to too.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe

There are so many reasons why this recipe will quickly earn a top spot in your weekly dinner rotation. First and foremost, let’s talk about how incredibly easy it is to make. With minimal prep time and only a few pantry staples, this dish is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs alike. No complicated steps, no fancy equipment—just simple, wholesome ingredients working together beautifully.

Second, the flavor is absolutely phenomenal. The butter melts into a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every bite of shrimp. Garlic adds that familiar, comforting warmth, while lemon juice lifts everything up with a pop of acidity. The Italian seasoning brings subtle herbal notes that round it all out, making each bite deeply satisfying.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. Not only can you serve it a dozen different ways, but you can also tweak the recipe to match your taste. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Want it even more citrusy? Toss in a little lemon zest. The basic method is so solid, you can get creative without fear.

This recipe is also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous food lovers, it hits the mark every single time. Kids love it because it’s buttery and mild. Adults appreciate the depth of flavor and elegant presentation. It’s the rare dish that works for both a casual weeknight meal and a more formal dinner party.

And finally, let’s not overlook how fast this recipe is. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 20 minutes—including prep. That means you can come home from work and have a homemade, nutritious dinner on the table before anyone starts getting hangry.

Health Benefits

Although garlic butter baked shrimp tastes indulgent, it’s actually quite balanced in terms of nutrition. Shrimp is a powerhouse when it comes to lean protein. It’s low in calories but high in important nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. These nutrients are essential for healthy thyroid function, brain health, and energy levels.

Shrimp is also rich in antioxidants, especially astaxanthin, which gives it that pinkish hue once cooked. Astaxanthin has been shown to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health, making shrimp a smart choice for your heart.

Garlic, another star in this dish, brings its own list of health perks. It’s known for its immune-boosting properties and is packed with antioxidants. Some studies even suggest that regular garlic consumption can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. When combined with healthy fats like butter (in moderation), garlic becomes both flavorful and functional.

Lemon juice not only brightens the dish with its fresh acidity, but it also adds a small dose of vitamin C. This vitamin supports immune health and aids in iron absorption—especially important when paired with seafood or plant-based sides.

While butter often gets a bad rap, using it in small amounts as we do in this recipe can be part of a healthy diet. Butter contains fat-soluble vitamins like A and D, and when it’s used to carry other nutrient-dense ingredients like garlic and herbs, it contributes to a dish that is satisfying and nourishing.

Finally, if you choose to serve this shrimp with a whole grain like brown rice or quinoa and add some steamed or roasted vegetables on the side, you’ve got yourself a beautifully balanced meal that provides protein, healthy fats, complex carbs, and fiber all in one.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this garlic butter baked shrimp recipe is how quickly it comes together. You don’t need to marinate anything overnight, there’s no long simmering sauce, and the actual baking time is less than ten minutes. So even if you’re juggling homework help, laundry, or a last-minute work call, you can still get this dish on the table with minimal effort.

Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 18–20 minutes

Servings:
This recipe serves 4 people generously. If you’re serving big eaters or want leftovers, consider doubling the batch—it scales beautifully.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 450mg (depending on salt and shrimp source)

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary slightly based on the exact size of your shrimp and how much salt you use. If you’re watching your sodium intake, look for low-sodium butter and rinse your shrimp well if they were previously frozen.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this simple and delicious garlic butter baked shrimp. You probably already have most of these items in your kitchen, which makes this recipe even more convenient.

Main Ingredients:

½ cup unsalted butter, melted – The butter forms the base of the sauce, creating a rich and creamy coating for the shrimp. Unsalted is ideal because it lets you control the salt level.

4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds that signature bold flavor. Fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor, but pre-minced garlic can work in a pinch.

1 tablespoon lemon juice (or more to taste) – This brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter. Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a big difference.

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – A gentle blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme brings a subtle herbal note to the sauce.

1½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined – Medium to large shrimp work best. Make sure they’re thawed if using frozen, and pat them dry for best results.

Salt and black pepper – These enhance and balance all the other flavors. Season to taste.

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh pop of color and flavor right before serving.

Optional Add-Ins:
A pinch of red pepper flakes – For a little heat
Lemon zest – For extra brightness
Paprika – Adds mild smokiness and color

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

The beauty of this garlic butter baked shrimp is how little effort it takes to prepare. But even simple recipes deserve detailed instructions, so here’s exactly how to make this dish from start to finish, with helpful tips built into every step.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your shrimp cook evenly and quickly. You want the oven fully heated by the time you place your shrimp inside so they can roast properly instead of steaming.

Step 2: Prepare a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of butter or oil. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup so much easier. If you have a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, those work well too.

Step 3: Melt the Butter
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until completely liquid. Be careful not to brown it unless you want that nutty flavor (which, honestly, could be a great twist).

Step 4: Mix the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. If you’re using any optional add-ins like lemon zest or red pepper flakes, stir them in now. Taste the mixture and adjust the lemon juice or seasoning if desired.

Step 5: Toss the Shrimp in the Sauce
Place your peeled and deveined shrimp directly onto the baking sheet or into your baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the shrimp and use tongs or your hands to toss them until they’re evenly coated. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 6: Season with Salt and Pepper
Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that shrimp naturally have some saltiness, especially if they were previously frozen, so go easy at first—you can always add more at the end.

Step 7: Bake the Shrimp
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and just cooked through. You’ll notice they curl slightly and turn from grey to a beautiful light pink color.

Step 8: Optional Broil for Extra Flavor
If you want a bit of a golden, roasted finish, you can turn on your broiler for the last 1–2 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on them so they don’t overcook.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once the shrimp are out of the oven, sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a fresh, herby note and a nice color contrast to the golden shrimp.

Step 10: Plate and Enjoy
Serve immediately while hot. Be sure to spoon some of that extra garlic butter sauce from the pan over the shrimp when serving—it’s too good to waste.

How to Serve

Now that your garlic butter shrimp is hot out of the oven, let’s talk about all the delicious ways you can serve it. This dish is incredibly versatile, so you can keep it simple or dress it up depending on the occasion and what you’re in the mood for.

One of the most popular ways to serve this shrimp is over a bed of warm rice. The garlic butter sauce seeps into the rice and creates this rich, flavorful base that pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp. You can use jasmine, basmati, or brown rice for extra fiber.

Pasta is another winning option. Toss the shrimp and sauce with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine for a quick garlic butter shrimp pasta that tastes restaurant-worthy. Add a handful of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil if you’re feeling extra fancy.

If you’re trying to keep things light, serve the shrimp on a bed of sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. The buttery sauce makes even the simplest veggies taste indulgent. You can also try it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.

Crusty bread is a must-have for soaking up that luscious garlic butter sauce. A warm baguette or slices of toasted sourdough are perfect for scooping up every last drop.

If you’re entertaining, try skewering the shrimp onto toothpicks and serving them as a hot appetizer. They look elegant, and they disappear fast.

Finally, for a more Mediterranean-style meal, pair the shrimp with a fresh salad—think arugula, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette. It balances the richness of the butter with bright, crisp flavors.

Pairing Suggestions

The right side dishes and beverages can really round out this meal and turn it into something special. Here are some of my favorite pairing suggestions to make your garlic butter shrimp dinner even more delicious.

Let’s start with grains. Rice pilaf or lemon herb couscous are fantastic choices because they soak up the extra sauce beautifully. Quinoa also works well if you’re looking for a gluten-free or higher-protein option.

For a more decadent dinner, try creamy mashed potatoes or a rich risotto. The shrimp and butter sauce pair well with those silky textures, making for a cozy and comforting meal.

In terms of vegetables, roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or garlic-roasted Brussels sprouts are amazing complements. These veggies hold their own against the bold garlic flavor and give your plate some vibrant color and nutrition.

Looking for a salad idea? A crisp green salad with a tangy lemon or balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast. You could also go with a cucumber and tomato salad with herbs, olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt.

If you enjoy drinks with your meals, there are several good options here. Since we’re keeping this recipe halal, I won’t recommend wine, but you can create a lovely non-alcoholic pairing with sparkling water and a splash of citrus juice. A cold glass of lemonade or even an herby iced tea with mint and lemon would be delightful.

For a cozy, wintery variation, pair the shrimp with a warm bowl of soup—perhaps a smooth roasted tomato or a creamy cauliflower soup. It adds another layer of comfort and makes the meal feel extra special.

If you’re serving this shrimp as part of a larger spread or buffet, consider including sides like herbed potato wedges, couscous salad, or stuffed bell peppers. The shrimp works beautifully alongside both light and hearty dishes, depending on the vibe you’re going for.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers—if you’re lucky enough to have any—are just as tasty the next day. Shrimp is delicate, though, so a few careful steps will help maintain its texture and flavor.

Storage:
Let the shrimp cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to include any extra sauce—it helps keep the shrimp moist and flavorful when reheated.

Freezing:
To freeze cooked garlic butter shrimp, place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—usually about an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Be sure to label it with the date. You can freeze the shrimp for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
When you’re ready to eat, reheat the shrimp gently to avoid overcooking. The best way is to place the shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a bit of extra butter or a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Cover with a lid and heat until warmed through—about 4 to 5 minutes.

Avoid microwaving the shrimp if possible, as it tends to make the texture rubbery. But if it’s your only option, reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, and stop as soon as the shrimp is heated through.

If you’ve frozen your shrimp, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps maintain the best possible texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple dish like this can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid so you can get perfect garlic butter baked shrimp every single time.

1. Overcooking the shrimp:
This is the most common issue. Shrimp cook very quickly—just 8 to 10 minutes in a hot oven. Once they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye.

2. Not patting the shrimp dry:
If your shrimp are wet when you toss them in the butter mixture, the sauce won’t stick as well and they may steam instead of roast. Use paper towels to blot excess moisture before baking.

3. Skipping the seasoning:
Even though garlic and butter add lots of flavor, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. It enhances everything and brings the dish together.

4. Using pre-cooked shrimp:
This recipe is designed for raw shrimp. If you use pre-cooked shrimp, they’ll end up overdone and chewy. Always start with raw shrimp for best results.

5. Crowding the pan:
Make sure your shrimp are in a single layer on the baking sheet. If they overlap, they’ll steam instead of bake, and you won’t get that beautiful roasted finish.

6. Not tasting the sauce before baking:
The butter-garlic-lemon mixture should be balanced and flavorful before it goes on the shrimp. Taste it and adjust the lemon or seasoning if needed—it’s easier to fix before baking than after.

Pro Tips

Now that we’ve covered what not to do, here are some pro tips to help you absolutely nail this recipe—and maybe even impress yourself.

1. Use jumbo or large shrimp if possible:
They’re easier to cook evenly and tend to stay juicier than smaller ones. Plus, they make for a more impressive presentation.

2. Add a touch of lemon zest for brightness:
Zesting the lemon before juicing it and adding that zest to the butter sauce gives the shrimp a fresh, citrusy lift that really takes the flavor to the next level.

3. Toast your garlic first (optional):
If you have a few extra minutes, lightly sauté the garlic in the melted butter before mixing everything together. It adds a nutty, mellow flavor that’s totally worth the extra step.

4. Make extra sauce:
Double the butter sauce if you plan to serve the shrimp over pasta or rice. You’ll want that extra liquid to coat everything and tie the meal together.

5. Garnish smartly:
Fresh parsley adds color and brightness, but you can also sprinkle on a little grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or chopped chives for added flavor and flair.

6. Let the shrimp rest for a couple of minutes before serving:
Just like with steak, giving shrimp a short rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices and keep them tender and flavorful.

7. Use high-quality butter:
Since butter is one of the main ingredients here, using a good-quality unsalted butter really makes a difference. You’ll notice it in the richness and flavor of the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before baking. This prevents them from releasing too much moisture during cooking.

Can I use ghee or olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute with ghee for a richer, nutty flavor, or use olive oil for a lighter, heart-healthier option. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all. However, you can easily make it spicier by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own blend with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and a little rosemary. Or just use what you have on hand—it’s a flexible recipe.

Can I grill the shrimp instead of baking?
Yes! Just thread them onto skewers and grill over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side. Brush with the garlic butter sauce before and after grilling.

How do I know when shrimp are cooked through?
They’ll turn opaque and pink with a slight curl. You’ll also notice the tails turning bright red. Avoid cooking them past this point or they’ll become rubbery.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Sure! Lime will give the dish a slightly different flavor profile—more tropical and bold—but it still works beautifully.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can mix the garlic butter sauce in advance and keep it in the fridge. Then, when you’re ready to cook, just toss it with the shrimp and bake.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter. Cover and heat until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Most kids love the buttery, garlicky flavor. Just skip any spicy additions if you’re serving it to younger eaters.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Garlic butter baked shrimp is one of those magical recipes that feels fancy but is actually incredibly easy to pull off. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, making a romantic dinner at home, or just feeding your hungry family on a weeknight, this recipe never disappoints. The ingredients are simple. The prep is quick. And the flavor? Out of this world.

Once you try it, I have no doubt it’ll become one of your favorite go-to meals too. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again—not just because it’s fast, but because it’s satisfying and impressive every single time.

I hope you feel inspired and excited to make this dish for yourself! When you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Feel free to share your experience, tips, or any delicious twists you tried with the recipe. And if you snap a photo of your finished garlic butter shrimp, don’t forget to tag me—I always love seeing your creations.

So go ahead, preheat that oven and get ready for a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and completely doable. Your dinner table is about to get a serious upgrade.

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