If you are looking for a dish that combines the perfect balance of juicy shrimp with a golden, crunchy crust and a mouthwatering lemon butter sauce, this Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. The shrimp bake to a delightful crispiness thanks to a panko and Parmesan topping, while a buttery, tangy lemon sauce brings all the flavors together beautifully. It’s straightforward to make yet impressively elegant—ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions when you want to treat yourself or your guests to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple and accessible ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant appeal. From juicy shrimp to fresh lemon juice and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, these essentials come together for an unforgettable dish.
- 500g/1 lb jumbo prawns/shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the star protein, offering a delicate sweetness and satisfying bite.
- 3/4 cup dry white wine: Used to add depth and a subtle acidity to the sauce; chicken broth works as a perfect substitute.
- 75g/5 tbsp unsalted butter: Melted butter ensures the sauce is rich and silky, locking in flavor and moisture.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Brings bright, fresh citrus notes that cut through the richness beautifully.
- 3 garlic cloves: Minced for a pungent, aromatic punch that complements the seafood perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavors without overpowering the natural taste of shrimp.
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: The secret to that crispy, golden topping that adds irresistible crunch.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan: Finely shredded cheese that melts into the panko, delivering a savory, nutty flair.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Added to the crunchy topping to elevate all the elements.
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil: Helps the topping brown perfectly in the oven.
- Finely chopped parsley and lemon wedges: For fresh garnish and an extra hit of color and brightness at the end.
How to Make Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sauce Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 220°C/430°F. Pour the white wine and half of the melted butter into a baking dish. Pop the pan into the oven for about 10 minutes to allow the wine to reduce and concentrate in flavor. This step builds the foundation of the lemon butter sauce that will make your dish so irresistible.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
While waiting on the sauce, toss your peeled and deveined shrimp in the remaining butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The butter may firm up slightly from the cold but don’t worry—it will melt beautifully in the oven, coating each shrimp with that rich, garlicky zest.
Step 3: Mix the Crunchy Topping
Combine panko breadcrumbs, finely shredded Parmesan, salt, and olive oil in a bowl. This mixture will bake up crispy and golden, adding an addictive texture that contrasts perfectly with tender shrimp.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Remove the reduced wine and butter pan from the oven and lay the shrimp out in a snug single layer. Even distribution helps every bite get that lovely crispy topping. Sprinkle the crunchy panko mixture evenly over the shrimp, then bake for 12 minutes, allowing the topping to brown and the shrimp to cook through gently.
Step 5: Finish with a Quick Broil
For the perfect golden crust, flick your oven on to broil or grill on high and broil the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a very close eye on them here—they should be just lightly browned and crunchy on top without burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp for vibrant color and a fresh herbal note. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread to soak up all that luxurious lemon butter sauce.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a burst of green that brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise. Lemon wedges on the side invite everyone to add an extra acidic zing, balancing out the buttery richness.
Side Dishes
This crispy baked shrimp pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to complement the richness. Think steamed or sautéed vegetables like asparagus or green beans, a crisp garden salad, or even a bed of fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes that can absorb the sauce marvelously.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable presentation, serve the shrimp in individual ramekins topped with the crunchy topping. Alternatively, lay them over a warm bed of linguine tossed lightly with olive oil and herbs for a seafood pasta twist. A rustic wooden board with slices of toasted baguette makes the perfect casual serving idea, perfect for dipping into every last bit of lemon butter sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days, although this dish is best enjoyed fresh to maintain that crispy topping.
Freezing
While not ideal because of the crunchiness of the topping, you can freeze the cooked shrimp if necessary. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place in a sealed freezer container. For best texture, consume within one month.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature (around 150°C/300°F) to help revive the crispy topping without drying out the shrimp. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the topping soggy and shrimp rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they crisp up nicely and the sauce coats them evenly.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the white wine?
Yes! You can easily swap out the dry white wine for chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even a splash of white grape juice for a touch of sweetness.
What can I substitute for Parmesan in the topping?
If you prefer, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a mild cheddar, but Parmesan really gives a classic savory depth that’s tough to beat.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?
Shrimp cook quickly and are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Be careful not to overcook, or they’ll become tough and rubbery.
Can I prepare this recipe for a dinner party?
Definitely! This Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is elegant and impressive but easy enough to prepare ahead and simply finish in the oven when guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is a true gem—deceptively easy to make, yet bursting with bright, buttery, garlicky flavors topped with irresistible crunch. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy evening or serving friends, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy shrimp like never before!
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Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Baked Shrimp in Lemon Butter Sauce recipe features juicy jumbo prawns baked to perfection with a crunchy panko and parmesan topping. The shrimp are tossed in a lemony garlic butter sauce and baked with a reduced white wine butter base, creating a rich, flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick, elegant meal. Topped with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges, this recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and bright citrus notes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Sauce
- 500g / 1 lb jumbo prawns/shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3/4 cup dry white wine (or substitute with chicken broth)
- 75g / 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Crunchy Topping
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- Finely chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 220°C / 430°F, suitable for all oven types, to ensure it’s hot enough for baking and broiling.
- Reduce Wine Butter: Pour the white wine and half of the melted butter into a 9 x 13 inch (22 x 33 cm) baking pan. Place the pan in the oven for 10 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavors.
- Toss Shrimp: In a bowl, mix the prawns with the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The butter may harden during this process; this is normal and won’t affect the flavor.
- Prepare Topping: Combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and olive oil in a separate bowl to create the crunchy topping.
- Arrange Shrimp: Carefully remove the baking pan from the oven. Place the tossed prawns into the pan in a single but snug layer, ensuring even coverage.
- Add Crunchy Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the prepared crunchy topping evenly over the prawns and bake in the oven for 12 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and the topping is golden.
- Broil for Crispiness: Switch your oven to the broiler or grill setting on high. Broil the dish for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to achieve a nicely browned, crispy top without burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread to enjoy the rich sauce.
Notes
- Note 1: Jumbo prawns or shrimp should be peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor.
- Note 2: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier topping than regular breadcrumbs.
- Note 3: When using a glass baking dish, be cautious as it retains heat differently; reduce oven temperature slightly if needed to prevent burning.
- Using chicken broth instead of dry white wine is a suitable substitution for a non-alcoholic version while maintaining rich flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
