There's nothing quite like the combination of tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and zesty lemon butter sauce filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This Baked Shrimp With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that you can whip up in under 20 minutes.

I first made this recipe when I needed a quick yet impressive dinner for guests. The result? A perfectly seasoned, buttery, and citrusy dish that disappeared from the table in no time. Now, it's a staple in my kitchen whenever I need something fast, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant.

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

Get ready to fall in love with one of the easiest and most flavorful shrimp recipes you'll ever make.

First, it's incredibly quick and simple. With just a handful of ingredients and a baking time of about 10 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Second, the flavors are unbeatable. The garlic-infused butter melts into the shrimp, while the lemon juice adds a bright, tangy contrast that keeps each bite fresh and delicious.

Not to mention, it's healthy and low-carb. Shrimp is high in protein and naturally low in calories, making this a guilt-free meal option that still feels indulgent.

Finally, it's versatile. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up that incredible sauce. No matter how you enjoy it, this recipe is a surefire hit.

Ingredients Note

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors.

Shrimp: Choose large or jumbo shrimp, preferably peeled and deveined. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before baking for even cooking.

Butter: The base of the sauce, butter adds richness and enhances the shrimp's natural sweetness. I prefer using unsalted butter so I can control the seasoning.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key to achieving the bold, aromatic flavor in this dish. Don’t skimp on it!

Lemon Juice & Zest: The acidity from fresh lemon juice balances the richness of the butter, while the zest amplifies the citrusy brightness.

Seasonings: A blend of salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and a touch of paprika brings warmth and depth to the shrimp.

No special equipment is needed—just a baking dish and an oven. Easy cleanup makes this recipe even more appealing!

How To Make This Baked Shrimp With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Creating this dish couldn't be simpler, and it all comes together in a matter of minutes.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, arrange your shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors of the sauce.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic, stirring constantly until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Remove from heat and mix in the lemon juice, zest, and seasonings.

Pour the flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece gets coated. If you like a little extra heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery if left in the oven too long.

Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them properly to maintain freshness.

Place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or olive oil to keep the shrimp tender.

Avoid freezing, as shrimp can become rubbery when thawed and reheated. It's best to enjoy this dish fresh!

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is delicious as written, but there are plenty of ways to customize it to your taste.

Swap the butter for olive oil: If you prefer a dairy-free version, extra virgin olive oil works beautifully while still keeping the dish rich and flavorful.

Use different seasonings: Try adding Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood twist or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.

Add vegetables: Toss in cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or spinach before baking for a complete one-pan meal.

Try a different protein: While shrimp is the star here, this garlic lemon butter sauce also pairs beautifully with scallops, chicken, or even salmon.

The best part? You can experiment with ingredients to find your favorite variation. However you make it, this dish is sure to impress!