Oven Baked Shrimp

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Introduction

Oven Baked Shrimp is an easy, healthy, and delicious dish that brings out the natural sweetness of shrimp with minimal effort. By roasting the shrimp in the oven, you get perfectly cooked shrimp with a flavorful crust, and all in a short amount of time. The seasoning options are endless, from zesty lemon and garlic to smoky paprika, making this dish a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner, a seafood lover’s feast, or a simple appetizer. The shrimp come out tender, juicy, and full of flavor, with just the right amount of crispiness on the outside.

I remember the first time I made this for a busy weeknight dinner, and the kitchen filled with the most delightful aroma. It was such a simple process—just toss the shrimp with your favorite seasonings, pop them in the oven, and in less than 15 minutes, you’ve got a dish that’s packed with flavor. Whether you serve it with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or just as a snack with dipping sauce, oven-baked shrimp always impresses.

It’s the kind of dish that’s both healthy and indulgent, making it perfect for any occasion. So next time you’re craving seafood, give this oven-baked shrimp a try—it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Appetizers or hors d’oeuvres
  • Seafood lovers
  • Family meals
  • Light, healthy meals

Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Shrimp

Here’s why Oven Baked Shrimp will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in just 10 minutes, perfect for when you’re short on time.
  • Flavorful: The shrimp are perfectly seasoned, and the oven baking method ensures a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the shrimp juicy inside.
  • Healthy and Light: Shrimp is naturally low in calories and high in protein, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.
  • Versatile: Customize the seasoning to suit your preferences, from classic garlic and lemon to spicy Cajun or Mediterranean flavors.
  • No Fuss: Unlike grilling or pan-frying, you don’t need to worry about flipping shrimp or monitoring them constantly.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 120-150 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 24g, Carbs: 2g, Fat: 2g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Oven Baked Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well for this recipe. Be sure to peel and devein them for ease of eating.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to coat the shrimp and ensures they cook up tender and juicy while adding a bit of richness.
  • Garlic and Paprika: These give the shrimp a savory depth and a slight smokiness. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, zesty finish that complements the shrimp perfectly, making the flavors pop.
  • Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a fresh, herbal note that balances the richness of the shrimp.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Oven Baked Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Season the Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the shrimp are well-coated with the seasoning mixture. For extra brightness, add the lemon juice here as well.
  3. Arrange the Shrimp: Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure not to overcrowd the shrimp to ensure they cook evenly.

Bake the Shrimp:

  1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Oven Baked Shrimp

Oven Baked Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

  • As a Main Course: Serve the shrimp with a side of roasted vegetables, a light salad, or over pasta for a satisfying dinner.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp with a dipping sauce like cocktail sauce, aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a tasty start to a meal.
  • With Rice or Quinoa: Pair the shrimp with a simple rice dish or quinoa for a well-rounded meal.
  • On Tacos: Use the baked shrimp as a filling for tacos, topped with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a quick and fresh meal.
  • In Salad: Toss the shrimp in a fresh green salad or a Mediterranean-style salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese.

Additional Tips for Oven Baked Shrimp

Here are some tips to ensure your Oven Baked Shrimp turns out perfect every time:

  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Keep a close eye on them, and remove them from the oven once they turn pink and opaque.
  • Use Large Shrimp: Larger shrimp hold up better in the oven and have a better texture compared to smaller ones.
  • Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  • Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or try adding dried herbs like thyme or oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add some chili flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
  • Roast Veggies with the Shrimp: If you want to make a complete meal, toss some chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes) with olive oil and seasonings, and roast them on the same baking sheet alongside the shrimp.

Recipe Variations for Oven Baked Shrimp

Here are 10 variations you can try for Oven Baked Shrimp:

  • Garlic Butter Shrimp: Instead of olive oil, use melted butter for a richer, more indulgent flavor. Add minced garlic to the butter for extra garlic goodness.
  • Lemon Pepper Shrimp: Use lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper for a bright and zesty twist on the original recipe.
  • Cajun Shrimp: Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning for a spicier, smoky flavor.
  • Herb Shrimp: Add dried or fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the seasoning mix for a Mediterranean touch.
  • Balsamic Shrimp: Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and garlic for a tangy-sweet flavor.
  • Chili Lime Shrimp: Season the shrimp with chili powder and lime juice for a tangy and slightly spicy flavor profile.
  • Pineapple Shrimp: Add chunks of pineapple to the shrimp before baking for a sweet and savory combination.
  • Spicy Sriracha Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in a sriracha sauce and honey mixture for a spicy-sweet kick.
  • Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: Wrap each shrimp with a slice of bacon before baking for an irresistible combination of flavors.
  • Pesto Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in basil pesto before baking for a fragrant, herby flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Oven Baked Shrimp

  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag for storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment for Oven Baked Shrimp

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Oven Baked Shrimp easier:

  • Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet helps the shrimp cook evenly in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: Line the baking sheet with parchment or foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • Measuring Spoons: Precise measurements help ensure the seasoning is just right.
  • Mixing Bowl: Use a mixing bowl to toss the shrimp with the seasonings and olive oil.
  • Tongs or Spatula: These tools help to easily place the shrimp onto the baking sheet and serve them afterward.
  • Citrus Zester: For zesting the lemon, a fine zester or microplane is ideal.

Frequently Asked Questions for Oven Baked Shrimp

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
    Yes, just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking.
  2. Can I cook these shrimp on the grill instead?
    Yes, you can grill the shrimp instead of baking them. Grill on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
  3. Can I use smaller shrimp?
    Yes, smaller shrimp will work, but they will cook faster, so be sure to monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.
  4. How can I make this dish spicier?
    Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes , or sriracha to the seasoning mix to add heat.
  5. Can I marinate the shrimp before baking?
    Yes, marinating the shrimp for 15-30 minutes before baking will infuse them with even more flavor.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Shrimp is a hassle-free yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal or occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, the shrimp turn out perfectly tender and juicy, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. Whether served as an appetizer, tossed into pasta, or used as a filling for tacos, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can easily be customized with your favorite seasonings.

Quick to prepare and healthier than frying, oven-baked shrimp makes for a quick, tasty addition to your meal rotation. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

I’d love to see how your Oven Baked Shrimp turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!