Sure! Here’s an in-depth 3000-word article exploring everything about **Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp** — the recipe, history, tips, variations, serving ideas, nutrition, and more. I’ll get you a rich, detailed article to make your garlic butter baked shrimp shine!

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# Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

Shrimp lovers, gather around — there’s a new star in your seafood lineup, and it’s bursting with rich, buttery garlic goodness! Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is one of the easiest, most delicious dishes you can whip up for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a casual party appetizer. The combination of succulent shrimp bathed in golden, fragrant garlic butter, baked to perfection, creates an irresistible flavor and texture that’s simply mouthwatering.

This article is your ultimate guide to mastering Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp, from the history of shrimp in cuisine, choosing the right shrimp, preparing the perfect garlic butter sauce, baking techniques, variations, serving suggestions, nutritional benefits, and everything in between. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, you’ll walk away ready to make this crowd-pleaser at home.

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## The History of Shrimp in Culinary Traditions

Shrimp have been a prized seafood delicacy for centuries across the globe. Their natural sweetness, firm yet tender texture, and adaptability have made them a favorite in many cuisines — from Asian stir-fries and Mediterranean dishes to Southern-style boils and classic French preparations.

Garlic and butter, two foundational flavor pillars in cooking, particularly in French and Italian traditions, elevate shrimp to a new level of indulgence. The marriage of garlic and butter with shrimp creates a rich, aromatic sauce that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness while delivering savory depth.

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## Why Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp Is So Popular

* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 20 minutes.
* **Minimal Ingredients:** Pantry staples come together for maximum flavor.
* **Elegant Yet Casual:** Perfect for weeknights or entertaining.
* **Versatile:** Can be a main dish, appetizer, or salad topper.
* **Healthy and Light:** Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein.

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## Choosing the Right Shrimp for Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

The success of this dish begins with picking the best shrimp:

* **Size:** Medium to large shrimp (16/20 count per pound) work best for texture and presentation.
* **Fresh or Frozen:** Fresh is ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp are a great option, just thaw properly.
* **Peeled and Deveined:** Saves prep time and ensures ease of eating.
* **Shell On or Off:** Shelled shrimp bake evenly and absorb flavors better, but shelled shrimp are easier to eat.

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## Ingredients Needed for Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp

* Shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
* Unsalted butter (melted)
* Garlic (fresh minced or pressed)
* Fresh parsley (chopped)
* Lemon juice and zest
* Paprika (optional for color and slight smokiness)
* Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper

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## Equipment Needed

* Baking dish or sheet
* Mixing bowl
* Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for melting butter)
* Spoon or brush (to coat shrimp)
* Knife and cutting board
* Oven mitts

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## The Step-by-Step Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp Recipe

### Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the shrimp cook quickly while the garlic butter sauce bubbles and infuses the shrimp.

### Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Allow it to sit for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.

### Step 3: Toss the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over them and toss to coat evenly. The butter will soak into the shrimp, adding rich flavor.

### Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish

Spread the shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish or sheet. Avoid overcrowding, so they cook evenly.

### Step 5: Bake the Shrimp

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.

### Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

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