Baked Garlic Shrimp

Name: Baked Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, sliced

Highlighted under: International Plates

I love whipping up Baked Garlic Shrimp on busy weeknights when I crave something flavorful yet easy to prepare. This dish is a burst of garlicky goodness that pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or over a bed of rice. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible. Using fresh ingredients, I can create a dish that feels gourmet but is ready in just a matter of minutes. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:03:35.736Z

When I first tried Baked Garlic Shrimp, I was simply blown away by the flavors. The combination of buttery garlic and fresh shrimp creates an enticing dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Baking locks in the moisture while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a go-to for dinner parties or a cozy night in.

My secret tip is to marinate the shrimp for at least 10 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before baking. This step enhances the flavors and ensures every bite is packed with tasty goodness. The result is a succulent dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor complemented by a sprinkle of fresh herbs
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
Versatile and pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad

Flavor Foundations

The rich flavor of baked garlic shrimp comes largely from the garlic and olive oil blend. Garlic not only imparts a robust taste but also offers health benefits like improved immune function. When you mince the garlic, be sure to avoid browning it in the oil initially; browning can create a bitter taste. Instead, it will infuse its flavor into the oil as it bakes, melding beautifully with the shrimp's natural sweetness.

Paprika adds depth to this dish, bringing a subtle smokiness and vibrant color. If you're feeling adventurous, try using smoked paprika for an even bolder flavor. The red pepper flakes offer a gentle kick that can be adjusted to your preference; feeling adventurous? Add a pinch more for extra heat. These spices, when combined with the fresh parsley at the end, create a harmonious balance that elevates the dish.

Technique Matters

While marinating the shrimp for at least 10 minutes is essential, you can extend it to 30 minutes for a more intense flavor. Just keep a close eye to ensure the shrimp don’t become too salty. The coating of olive oil acts as a barrier, allowing the garlic and spices to adhere while the shrimp cook. This technique guarantees that each bite is infused with flavor without over-saturating the delicate shrimp.

When arranging the shrimp on the baking sheet, spread them out in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that beautiful caramelization. If the shrimp are too crowded, steaming will occur, leading to a chewy texture. As they bake, you'll be looking for a visual cue: the shrimp should turn pink and opaque, signaling they are done—typically within 15-20 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make the most delicious Baked Garlic Shrimp:

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, sliced

Make sure you have everything ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Garlic Shrimp:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure perfect cooking for the shrimp.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Arrange and Bake

Spread the marinated shrimp on a baking sheet, then top with lemon slices and chopped parsley.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve hot, optionally garnished with more parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Garlic Shrimp with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider serving with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delightful juices.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly. Baked garlic shrimp can last up to 2 days in the fridge. To reheat, avoid the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Instead, use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to keep them moist. Stir gently until warmed through, ensuring they don’t overcook.

For meal prep, you can marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just avoid marinating too long, as the acid in the lemon can cause the shrimp to break down and turn mushy. If using frozen shrimp, allow them to thaw completely before marinating for even seasoning and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Baked garlic shrimp shines when served alongside a light, crisp salad or over a fluffy bed of rice, allowing the savory juices to soak in. To elevate your dish, drizzle with a bit of lemon juice just before serving for an added zesty finish. You can also place the shrimp over pasta, tossing it with olive oil and fresh vegetables for a satiating meal.

Feeling extra creative? Consider pairing the shrimp with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious garlic oil. For a refreshing twist, add seasonal vegetables to the baking sheet—zucchini or bell peppers roast beautifully alongside the shrimp, enhancing the dish's colorful presentation and adding nutritional value.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or asparagus would pair nicely with the shrimp.

→ What can I serve with Baked Garlic Shrimp?

It goes well with pasta, rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.