There’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic butter wafting from the oven—and this Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is one of those recipes that instantly feels comforting yet elegant.
Juicy shrimp swim in lemony garlic butter and are topped with a golden, cheesy breadcrumb crust that’s completely irresistible.
Why I Love This Recipe
Buttery and bright – Lemon, garlic, and butter are a trio that never fails.
Easy and impressive – Looks gourmet, but it’s so simple.
Perfect texture – Tender shrimp with crispy, cheesy topping.
Fast bake time – Ready in under 20 minutes.
Great for guests – Elegant enough for entertaining.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
For the Shrimp:
Jumbo shrimp – Peeled and deveined for easy prep and eating.
Dry white wine – Adds acidity and depth to the sauce base.
Unsalted butter – Divided for both the sauce and topping.
Fresh lemon juice – Cuts the richness with a bright citrus note.
Garlic – Three cloves for that deeply savory flavor.
Salt & pepper – Just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
For the Topping:
Panko breadcrumbs – Crispier than traditional breadcrumbs.
Parmesan cheese – Finely grated for even melting and flavor.
Butter – Helps toast the topping to golden perfection.
Fresh parsley – A touch of green freshness after baking.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use large or jumbo shrimp – They hold up better under the broiler.
Dry your shrimp well – This helps them bake instead of steam.
Don’t skip preheating the pan – It helps concentrate the wine-butter base.
Watch the broiler carefully – The topping can go from golden to burnt fast.
Use real Parmesan – Freshly grated works best for taste and melt.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it hot and ready for a quick bake.
Step 2: Prep the Baking Dish
Pour the white wine and 2 tablespoons of melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place it in the oven for about 10 minutes to reduce slightly and build flavor.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Add the shrimp and toss until fully coated.
Step 4: Mix the Topping
In another small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and 2 tablespoons melted butter.
Stir until evenly coated and crumbly.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven.
Arrange the shrimp in a single, snug layer over the wine-butter base.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, covering them well.
Step 7: Bake and Broil
Bake for 12 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
Then, switch the oven to broil on high and broil for 1–2 minutes to crisp up the topping. Watch closely!
What to Serve It With
Crusty baguette – Perfect for soaking up that buttery sauce.
Lemon rice or couscous – To complement the bright citrus notes.
Simple arugula salad – A peppery green contrast.
Steamed asparagus or green beans – Adds balance to the richness.
Chilled white wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully.
Variations / Substitutions
Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp mixture.
Use gluten-free panko – For a gluten-friendly version.
Swap Parmesan – Try Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick.
No wine? – Use chicken broth or seafood stock as a flavorful alternative.
Add fresh herbs – Chopped thyme or basil works great.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat – Warm in a 325°F oven for 8–10 minutes to keep the topping crisp.
Avoid microwaving – It softens the crispy topping and overcooks shrimp.
Don’t freeze – The texture of the shrimp and topping won’t hold up well.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry thoroughly before using.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the wine?
You can use chicken broth or seafood stock instead.
What kind of white wine works best?
Dry wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are great options.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can prep the shrimp and topping separately, then assemble and bake fresh.
How do I know when shrimp are done?
They’ll turn opaque with a slight pink hue and curl into a C-shape.
Can I use smaller shrimp?
You can, but reduce baking time by 2–3 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a larger pan or bake in batches.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is everything I crave in a dinner—easy, fast, packed with flavor, and just indulgent enough to feel special.
The golden, crunchy topping paired with the juicy shrimp and garlicky wine sauce is pure comfort.
Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself midweek, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.
