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Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until the garlic is well incorporated into the butter. For a richer flavor, you can also add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
Step 3: Arrange the Shrimp
Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a shallow baking dish. If you’re using a baking dish, make sure it’s large enough to spread the shrimp out evenly. This ensures they cook properly and get a nice golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Shrimp
Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the shrimp, making sure they are all coated in that delicious buttery goodness. You can spoon any remaining garlic butter over the top to ensure full flavor coverage.
Place the shrimp in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough if left in the oven too long.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. You can also add a little more lemon zest for an extra burst of citrusy flavor. Serve the shrimp immediately, with your choice of sides.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to complete your meal:
- Over Pasta: Serve the baked shrimp on top of a bed of linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine for a delicious seafood pasta dish. The lemon butter sauce acts as a natural pasta sauce, making it both flavorful and satisfying.
- With Rice: Serve alongside a simple side of white rice or cilantro-lime rice for a light, healthy pairing that soaks up the buttery sauce.
- With Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans pair wonderfully with the shrimp for a wholesome, low-carb meal.
- With Bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of garlic bread or baguette to dip into the buttery sauce.
- As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks or skewers for a simple yet impressive appetizer at your next gathering or party.
Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality shrimp. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so it’s best to err on the side of undercooking slightly.
- Adjust the Lemon Flavor: If you love lemon, feel free to add extra lemon juice or lemon zest to the sauce to amp up the citrus flavor. You can also add a squeeze of lemon over the shrimp right before serving for an extra zing.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture. The spice complements the buttery richness perfectly.
- Make It a Complete Meal: For a more substantial meal, consider serving the shrimp with a side salad, garlic bread, or a creamy mash potato for a comforting dinner.
Why You’ll Make This Again and Again
Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp is the perfect combination of easy, flavorful, and satisfying. The garlic butter sauce is a showstopper, and the shrimp cook up perfectly tender and juicy in the oven. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for your family or serving it at a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress every time. It’s light enough for a weeknight meal but flavorful enough to be served at a dinner party.
The buttery lemon sauce is truly what makes this dish shine, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll be coming back for more. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a delicious meal that’s ready in no time.
Conclusion
If you love shrimp and crave a dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, Lemon Butter Baked Shrimp is the recipe you need. It’s a quick, healthy, and absolutely delicious way to enjoy shrimp, and it’s guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner table. So, grab some shrimp, squeeze a little lemon, and let this savory dish elevate your next meal! 🦐🍋🧄
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