While cleaning my kitchen last week, I found a half-open bottle of dry white wine hidden behind the olive oil. Inspired by my discovery, I decided to create a dish that would celebrate the fresh flavors of the ocean. That’s when I whipped up these Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce—an effortless and mouthwatering recipe that brings a taste of the sea right to your dinner table.
Imagine succulent jumbo shrimp tossed in a glorious mix of garlic, zesty lemon, and rich butter, then covered with a crunchy topping that transforms these simple ingredients into a gourmet delight. Perfect for impressing guests or savoring on a cozy weeknight, this dish is not just easy to prepare; it’s an experience in itself. Grab a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds! Let’s dive into the recipe that will make you feel like a culinary rock star without all the fuss.
Why is Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce irresistible?
Simplicity and Elegance: This recipe delivers gourmet flavors with minimal effort, perfect for any home cook.
Savory Goodness: Each bite bursts with the rich taste of garlic, buttery goodness, and a hint of lemon, elevating your dining experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for gatherings, this dish impresses guests and satisfies hungry families alike.
Quick and Easy: Finished in just 12 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
Plus, if you enjoy unique seafood dishes, don’t miss out on exploring more flavorful recipes like our famous Shrimp Scampi Pasta!
Crunchy Baked Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 500g jumbo prawns/shrimp – Peel and devein for a clean, succulent bite.
- 3/4 cup dry white wine – Choice of wine adds depth, enhancing the flavor of the shrimp.
- 75g unsalted butter – Melted, it creates a rich base for the garlic butter sauce.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – Freshly squeezed to brighten and balance the savory notes.
- 3 garlic cloves – Minced for that aromatic kick that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 tsp pepper – Adds a subtle warmth to the overall flavor profile.
For the Crunchy Topping
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs – Light and crispy, these add a delightful crunch to your baked shrimp.
- 1/4 cup parmesan – Finely shredded, it offers richness and a delicious cheesy topping.
- 1/4 tsp salt – To ensure the topping matches the seasonings of the shrimp.
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil – Helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crunch while baking.
For Garnish
- Finely chopped parsley – A sprinkle adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
- Lemon wedges – Serve alongside for an extra zing of freshness with each bite.
Enjoy every bite of your Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce as you create a beautiful meal that’s sure to delight.
How to Make Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (430°F). This high temperature is key for achieving that perfect crunch on the shrimp.
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Reduce wine: Pour the dry white wine and half of the melted butter into a 9 x 13″ baking pan. Place it in the oven for about 10 minutes to reduce, enhancing the wine’s flavor.
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Toss shrimp: In a bowl, toss the jumbo prawns with the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Ensure the shrimp are well-coated for maximum flavor.
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Mix topping: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, additional salt, and olive oil. This mixture will create a delectable crunchy topping.
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Arrange shrimp: Carefully remove the baking pan from the oven and add the tossed prawns, spreading them out in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
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Top and bake: Generously sprinkle the crunchy topping over the shrimp. Bake in the oven for about 12 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
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Broil for finish: Turn on the broiler and broil the dish on high for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect brown top without burning.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread for a complete meal that’s hard to resist.
Optional: Serve with a fresh side salad for a light, complementary dish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crunchy Baked Shrimp
Fridge: Keep leftover Crunchy Baked Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain crispiness.
Freezer: If freezing, place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to revive the delicious crunch. Avoid microwaving, as this may make them soggy.
Serving Tip: For the best flavor, serve reheated shrimp with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley.
Expert Tips for Crunchy Baked Shrimp
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Perfect Shrimp: Select fresh or thawed jumbo prawns; avoid overcooking to keep them juicy and tender in your Crunchy Baked Shrimp.
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Flavor Infusion: Allow the wine to reduce fully before adding the shrimp; this deepens the flavor and enhances the garlic butter sauce.
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Crispy Topping: For extra crunch, let the panko mixture rest for a few minutes after mixing with olive oil; this helps them toast beautifully during baking.
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Watch the Broiler: Stay vigilant while broiling; it only takes a minute or two to achieve the desired golden brown without burning.
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Easy Cleanup: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking while making your mouthwatering Crunchy Baked Shrimp.
What to Serve with Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce?
Create a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements the flavors of your shrimp dish.
- Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the shrimp and is perfect for dipping.
- Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens and veggies adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the baked shrimp.
- Lemon Orzo: This zesty, creamy orzo dish enhances the lemony notes present in the shrimp, adding a delightful creaminess to each bite.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus brings a slight earthiness that contrasts beautifully with the bright flavors of the shrimp, elevating your meal.
- White Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of the same dry white wine used in cooking will enhance your dining experience, creating a seamless flavor connection.
- Zucchini Noodles: These spiralized vegetables provide a light and healthy alternative, soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce deliciously.
- Chilled Shrimp Cocktail: For a doubly shrimp-themed meal, serve this classic appetizer for a fun and flavorful starter.
- Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this coffee-flavored dessert; its creamy layers offer a perfect textural contrast to the savory entrée.
Make Ahead Options
These Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks wanting to save time during weeknight dinners! You can prep the shrimp by tossing them with the garlic, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can mix the panko breadcrumb topping ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply arrange the marinated shrimp in the baking pan, add the crunchy topping, and bake for 12 minutes. This way, you maintain all the delicious flavors while enjoying hassle-free cooking!
Crunchy Baked Shrimp Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will inspire your culinary creativity!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes to the shrimp mixture for a fiery flavor that dances on your palate. Spice lovers will appreciate the added warmth.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate 1 tbsp of fresh dill or basil into the Crunchy Topping for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish with herbal goodness. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant touch to each bite.
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Creamy Addition: Mix in 1/4 cup of cream cheese to the melted garlic butter for a rich and creamy sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully. This adds a luxurious texture and flavor profile.
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Citrus Burst: Swap lemon juice for lime juice and add lime zest to the topping for a zesty flair that brightens the dish. This change will draw attention and interest with its refreshing notes.
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Cheesy Delight: Use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese instead of parmesan for a gooey, melty topping. The gooeyness brings an entirely new experience to this dish, making it even more delectable.
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Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic to 5 cloves for those who can’t get enough of that aromatic flavor. The extra kick of garlic creates a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the panko topping for an unexpected crunch. Nuts add a delightful texture that surprises and delights.
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Asian Twist: Use soy sauce instead of white wine and incorporate sesame oil into the shrimp for a unique, umami-packed flavor profile that’s sure to impress. This variation brings a completely different culinary experience to the table.
Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for fresh or frozen jumbo prawns that are peel and deveined. Fresh prawns should have a firm texture, a slight ocean scent, and a translucent appearance. Avoid any that look dull or have dark spots. If you’re using frozen prawns, make sure they are completely thawed before cooking for even flavor absorption and texture.
How should I store leftovers of Crunchy Baked Shrimp?
Very simple! Place any leftover Crunchy Baked Shrimp in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to regain that lovely crunchy topping. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Can I freeze Crunchy Baked Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the baked shrimp to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For the best results, reheat in the oven to restore the crunchy texture.
What should I do if the topping doesn’t get crispy?
If the topping isn’t crispy after baking, don’t worry! You can pop the dish under the broiler for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure it doesn’t burn. Also, make sure your panko breadcrumbs are coated well with olive oil. This helps them crisp up beautifully while baking.
Are there any dietary considerations for Crunchy Baked Shrimp?
For those with shellfish allergies, unfortunately, this recipe isn’t suitable. However, feel free to substitute the shrimp with a plant-based option like cauliflower or firm tofu to cater to different dietary preferences! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the texture and cook time will differ from shrimp.
Can my pets eat any of the ingredients?
When it comes to our furry friends, it’s best to avoid giving them shrimp due to potential shellfish allergies and the high sodium content in this recipe. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing any human food with your pets to keep them safe and healthy!
Savory Crunchy Baked Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). This high temperature is key for achieving that perfect crunch on the shrimp.
- Pour the dry white wine and half of the melted butter into a 9 x 13" baking pan. Place it in the oven for about 10 minutes to reduce.
- In a bowl, toss the jumbo prawns with the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, additional salt, and olive oil to create a topping.
- Carefully remove the baking pan from the oven and add the tossed prawns, spreading them out in a single layer.
- Generously sprinkle the crunchy topping over the shrimp. Bake in the oven for about 12 minutes.
- Turn on the broiler and broil the dish on high for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread.