After a long day, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where my go-to recipe for Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp comes in. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Imagine the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through your home as you whip up this delightful dish. Not only does it impress your loved ones, but it also allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp
This Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a game-changer for anyone who craves a delicious meal without the hassle. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 22 minutes from start to finish. The combination of succulent shrimp and tender asparagus, all bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just one pan to wash!
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success. For this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful items. Here’s what you’ll be working with:
Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the stars of the dish. They cook quickly and soak up all that delicious garlic butter.
Unsalted butter: The base of our garlic butter sauce. Using unsalted allows you to control the seasoning better.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. Fresh is best, but jarred can work in a pinch.
Smoked paprika: This spice brings a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish. It’s a must-have for depth of flavor.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the shrimp beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite mix.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a nice kick. Adjust to your heat preference.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Always taste as you go!
Asparagus: Fresh and trimmed, this veggie pairs perfectly with shrimp. It adds color and nutrition.
Lemon: Sliced, for a zesty finish. The acidity brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color. If shrimp isn’t your thing, chicken breast or tofu can be great substitutes. You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp
Creating this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that the shrimp and asparagus cook evenly. A hot oven helps the shrimp become tender and juicy while giving the asparagus a nice char. Trust me, you want that perfect balance!
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Each ingredient plays a role: the butter adds richness, garlic brings flavor, and the spices elevate the dish. Mix it well until everything is combined. This garlic butter mixture is the heart of the recipe!
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the garlic butter mixture. Toss them gently until they are fully coated. This step is key for maximum flavor. You want every shrimp to soak up that delicious garlic goodness. Don’t be shy—get in there and mix it up!
Step 4: Arrange on the Sheet Pan
On a large sheet pan, arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and season with salt and pepper. Next, place the coated shrimp alongside the asparagus. Make sure they’re spread out; this allows for even cooking. Finally, add lemon slices on top for that zesty kick!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, while the asparagus becomes tender. If you’re unsure, a quick poke with a fork can help you check for doneness. You want everything to be perfectly cooked!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh touch. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to squeeze some extra lemon juice on top for brightness. This dish not only looks stunning but tastes incredible too. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Tips for Success
Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overcrowd the sheet pan; give everything space to cook evenly.
Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste—more heat or less garlic, it’s up to you!
For a complete meal, serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter.
Experiment with seasonal veggies for variety and nutrition.
Equipment Needed
Sheet pan: A large baking sheet is essential. If you don’t have one, a roasting pan works too.
Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do for combining ingredients. A glass or metal bowl is perfect.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements. You can use a kitchen scale if you prefer.
Spatula or tongs: Great for tossing the shrimp and veggies. A fork can work in a pinch!
Variations
Vegetable Medley: Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for a colorful twist.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb Option: Swap asparagus for broccoli or cauliflower for a keto-friendly meal.
Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken breast, tofu, or even scallops for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter.
White Wine: Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing complement.
Fresh Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad adds a crisp contrast.
Lemon Wedges: Offer extra lemon wedges for those who love a zesty kick.
FAQs about Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. Frozen shrimp can be a convenient option, but they need to be peeled and deveined if they aren’t already.
What can I substitute for asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for other veggies like broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
The shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. If you’re unsure, a quick poke with a fork can help you check for doneness. They should be firm to the touch but not rubbery.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the garlic butter mixture and coat the shrimp in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp again!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to focus on what truly matters—sharing delicious food with family and friends. The rich flavors and vibrant colors make it a feast for the senses. Plus, the ease of cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your creation rather than scrubbing pots and pans. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and savor every bite of this delightful dish!
A quick and delicious recipe for Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound asparagus, trimmed
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are well coated.
On a large sheet pan, arrange the asparagus in a single layer. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the shrimp on the sheet pan alongside the asparagus. Add lemon slices on top of the shrimp and asparagus.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the asparagus is tender.
Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a twist, try adding cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to the sheet pan for extra color and flavor.
You can also substitute the shrimp with chicken breast or tofu for a different protein option.
