Garlicky Baked Shrimp is a dish that epitomizes the joy of quick and easy cooking without sacrificing flavor. Imagine succulent shrimp baked to perfection, enveloped in aromatic garlic and a hint of spice. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes for an impressive meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether you are hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, Garlicky Baked Shrimp fits the bill perfectly. The combination of fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation ensures that even novice cooks can create a culinary masterpiece. Plus, this recipe is flexible enough to accommodate different dietary preferences by allowing you to adjust spices or add extra flavor components. Dive into this delightful dish that promises to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Garlicky Baked Shrimp
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Garlicky Baked Shrimp
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture; ensure they are peeled and deveined before cooking.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic will infuse the dish with rich taste.
- Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds healthy fats and enhances the overall flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and complements the shrimp beautifully.
For additional seasoning:
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference to add a kick to your garlicky shrimp.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Garlicky Baked Shrimp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows the oven to reach optimal temperature for baking the shrimp evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier after cooking.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine peeled shrimp with minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything until each shrimp is well-coated.
Step 4: Arrange Shrimp in Baking Dish
Transfer the coated shrimp into the prepared baking dish in a single layer. This helps ensure even cooking throughout.
Step 5: Bake Until Done
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining juices for added flavor.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all shrimp are roughly the same size for consistent cooking times.
- Marinating Option: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in garlic mixture for at least an hour before baking.
- Garnish Ideas: Add chopped parsley or lemon zest as a garnish before serving to elevate presentation.
How to Serve Garlicky Baked Shrimp
This Garlicky Baked Shrimp is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp marinade in advance. Mix garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices, then marinate the shrimp for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.
Suggestions for Garlicky Baked Shrimp
Use Fresh Ingredients
When preparing garlicky baked shrimp, using fresh ingredients can drastically enhance the flavor. Avoid pre-packaged or frozen shrimp if possible; instead, opt for fresh shrimp from a reputable source. Fresh garlic also plays an essential role in creating that robust garlicky taste. Stale or dried-out garlic can diminish the dish’s overall quality. Additionally, using fresh herbs like parsley will elevate the dish, adding a bright touch that complements the shrimp beautifully. Remember, fresh ingredients not only taste better but also contribute to a vibrant presentation.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Overcooking is one of the most common mistakes when making garlicky baked shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly; they can turn rubbery if left in the oven too long. Aim for a cooking time of about 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Watch closely as they change color from gray to pink and curl slightly. This transformation indicates they are perfectly cooked. For best results, remove them from the oven just as they begin to turn opaque. This will ensure your dish remains tender and juicy rather than tough and chewy.
Seasoning Balance
Finding the right balance of seasoning is crucial for garlicky baked shrimp. Too much salt can overpower the natural flavors of the shrimp, while too little can make it bland. Start with a modest amount of salt and pepper and later adjust according to taste after baking. Consider adding lemon juice or zest for acidity and freshness, which can brighten up the dish significantly. Don’t forget to incorporate spices like paprika or red pepper flakes to add depth without overshadowing the garlic flavor.
Proper Baking Dish
The choice of baking dish can impact how evenly your garlicky baked shrimp cook. Using a shallow baking dish allows for better heat circulation, ensuring even cooking. Avoid deep pots or pans that trap steam, as this may lead to boiling rather than baking your shrimp, affecting their texture negatively. Glass or ceramic dishes work well for even heat distribution. Always preheat your oven before placing your dish inside to achieve that perfect golden-brown finish on top.
FAQs
What sides pair well with garlicky baked shrimp?
Garlicky baked shrimp pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its bold flavors. A simple green salad topped with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. Garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment as it allows you to savor any leftover garlic butter sauce from the shrimp. For something heartier, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes; both options soak up the flavors beautifully.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
While fresh shrimp is ideal for garlicky baked shrimp, you can certainly use frozen shrimp if necessary. Just ensure you properly thaw them before cooking; this prevents excess water from being released during baking, which could result in a watery dish. To thaw, place them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes or leave them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to achieve optimal texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers from your garlicky baked shrimp requires some care to maintain their flavor and texture. Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly within two hours of cooking. They should last about 2-3 days in the fridge without losing too much quality. To reheat, consider using an oven instead of a microwave; this helps retain their original texture better than microwaving would.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Preparing garlicky baked shrimp ahead of time is possible but requires careful planning to maintain freshness and flavor. You can marinate the shrimp in garlic and seasonings earlier in the day and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them later on. However, avoid baking them too far in advance since freshly cooked shrimp tastes best when served immediately after preparation.
Conclusion for Garlicky Baked Shrimp
In summary, making delicious garlicky baked shrimp is an achievable culinary goal when you pay attention to key details such as ingredient freshness, proper cooking times, and seasoning balance. Remember not to overcook your shrimp; doing so ensures they remain tender and juicy rather than rubbery. Selecting an appropriate baking dish also contributes significantly to achieving even cooking results. With these tips in mind, you will create a flavorful seafood dish that delights everyone at your table! Enjoy serving this delightful recipe at gatherings or weeknight dinners alike!
Garlicky Baked Shrimp
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the flavors of Garlicky Baked Shrimp, an easy and elegant dish that brings a taste of the sea to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. This recipe showcases plump, juicy shrimp baked in a tantalizing garlic-infused olive oil sauce, complemented by a splash of fresh lemon juice and a hint of red pepper flakes for just the right amount of kick. Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings, this versatile dish pairs beautifully with rice, crusty bread, or a refreshing salad, making it an all-time favorite that will impress family and friends alike. Elevate your culinary skills effortlessly with this delightful recipe that promises satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes; toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Serve immediately, drizzling with any remaining juices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 140g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
Leave a Comment