Garlic Butter Shrimp

There’s something uniquely satisfying about sitting down to a hot, home-cooked meal after a long day, especially when it’s packed with flavor and doesn’t require you to stand over the stove for hours. That’s exactly why this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe has earned a permanent spot in my weeknight dinner rotation. It’s the definition of “low effort, high reward” cooking—only a handful of ingredients, one single pan to clean, and a rich, buttery garlic flavor that makes it feel like you ordered from your favorite seafood restaurant. Except here’s the twist: you made it yourself, in less than 30 minutes, with zero stress.

This recipe originally comes from Damn Delicious, which is known for mastering the art of simple yet indulgent meals. What caught my eye about this particular dish wasn’t just the ease—it was the boldness. Garlic butter and shrimp are a dream team, but when you add a splash of fresh lemon juice and a touch of Italian seasoning, the flavor goes from comforting to crave-worthy. And because it’s all made on a sheet pan, the cleanup is a breeze. Honestly, that’s a huge win for anyone who hates washing dishes more than they enjoy cooking.

I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a Tuesday, I had exactly 45 minutes between meetings, and I needed dinner to be fast but still feel like a real meal. I pulled a bag of shrimp from the freezer, let it thaw while I preheated the oven, and mixed up the garlic butter sauce in under five minutes. The shrimp roasted beautifully in the oven while I set the table and steamed some rice on the side. By the time I sat down to eat, I couldn’t believe how effortless it had been. More importantly, the flavor was out of this world. That rich, garlicky butter coated every bite of shrimp, and the hint of citrus made it feel light and balanced.

Since then, I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count. Sometimes I swap in different seasonings or add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat. Other times I serve it over pasta or next to roasted asparagus for a more complete meal. No matter how you plate it, this shrimp dish always delivers. It’s foolproof, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—and it’s exactly what you need when you want dinner on the table in a flash.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe should be in your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even a group of friends, this dish brings ease, flexibility, and restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen. Let’s break down all the things that make it so special.

To start, the simplicity of this recipe is unbeatable. With only five core ingredients (plus salt and pepper), you don’t need a long grocery list or fancy cooking equipment. All you really need is shrimp, butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. These are staples that you probably already have on hand, especially if shrimp is a freezer favorite in your house like it is in mine. Everything comes together in one bowl and roasts on a single sheet pan, which means fewer dishes, less cleanup, and more time to relax after dinner.

Next, the speed of this recipe is ideal for busy nights. From start to finish, you can have this meal ready in 25 minutes or less. That includes the prep, the mixing, the baking, and even the garnishing. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want something nourishing and satisfying on your plate.

Another reason you’ll love this recipe is the flavor. Garlic butter has a magical ability to elevate any protein, but it pairs especially well with shrimp. As the shrimp bake, they soak up all the garlicky, lemony, herby goodness, resulting in juicy, tender bites that taste like they took much more effort than they actually did. The fresh parsley at the end adds just the right amount of brightness and a little pop of color, which is always a bonus when serving.

This dish also scores major points for versatility. It can be served in so many different ways. You can spoon the shrimp over white rice, toss them with pasta, pile them into tacos, or even use them to top a fresh salad. They’re also perfect for meal prep—just store them in the fridge and reheat gently for lunches or dinners throughout the week. The leftovers are just as good as the first serving, which is always a win in my book.

And finally, this recipe is highly customizable. Want a spicy twist? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne. Looking for a Mediterranean vibe? Mix in some olives, cherry tomatoes, or crumbled feta before baking. Craving something a little sweeter? A touch of honey or a sprinkle of smoked paprika could be your ticket. The base recipe is solid and flavorful, but it also leaves room for creativity depending on what you’re craving or what you have in your fridge.

So if you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, fast, full of flavor, and endlessly flexible, this sheet pan shrimp recipe is the answer. It’s the kind of dinner you’ll come back to again and again—and each time, you’ll remember exactly why you fell in love with it.

Health Benefits

At first glance, this Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp might seem like a comfort food classic—and it absolutely is—but don’t let the butter fool you. This dish can also be part of a nutritious, balanced diet, especially when paired with the right sides and prepared with a few smart choices. Shrimp themselves are a surprisingly healthy protein option, and the other ingredients in this dish bring additional benefits to the table.

Let’s start with the star ingredient: shrimp. Shrimp are low in calories yet high in protein, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain or build lean muscle mass. A three-ounce serving of shrimp contains about 20 grams of protein and just 84 calories. That’s a pretty impressive protein-to-calorie ratio, and it means that this meal can help you feel full and satisfied without going overboard on portion sizes.

In addition to being high in protein, shrimp are also rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and choline. Selenium is especially important because it acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Shrimp are also one of the best natural sources of iodine, which is essential for proper thyroid function.

Now, let’s talk about garlic. Not only does garlic add a ton of flavor, but it also comes with its own list of health perks. Garlic has been shown to support cardiovascular health, reduce blood pressure, and even help fight infections thanks to its natural antibacterial properties. When used in moderation, it’s a powerful ingredient both in taste and wellness.

The butter, while higher in saturated fat, can be used thoughtfully in this dish. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the sodium content, and keeping the portion moderate ensures that you’re not going overboard. Butter also helps to absorb and carry the fat-soluble nutrients from other ingredients, like the antioxidants in garlic and parsley. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part of the butter with olive oil for a more heart-healthy fat profile.

Lemon juice is another small but mighty ingredient in this recipe. It adds brightness and acidity to balance out the richness of the butter, and it’s packed with vitamin C. This helps support immune health and may even assist in the absorption of iron from other foods you pair with your meal.

Finally, let’s not forget about the parsley garnish. Fresh parsley contains vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants that contribute to better bone health and reduced inflammation. It may be a garnish, but it’s doing more than just making your plate look pretty.

When paired with smart side dishes—like steamed vegetables, quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh salad—this garlic butter shrimp can easily fit into a well-rounded meal plan. It delivers high-quality protein, healthy fats, and a balance of vitamins and minerals. With a few thoughtful tweaks, it goes from indulgent to wholesome without sacrificing the flavors that make it so irresistible.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This recipe is ideal for those busy nights when you need something fast but still crave real food with bold flavor. The preparation process is so simple that you can practically do it with your eyes closed. But let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect when you’re planning this dish into your schedule.

Total Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10–12 minutes

• Cook time: 8–10 minutes

• Total time: Around 20–25 minutes

This dish is quick enough for weeknights but delicious enough to serve to guests on the weekend. You can even prep the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and keep it in the fridge, which shaves off even more time during the dinner rush.

Servings

• This recipe yields 4 generous servings as a main course.

• If you’re using it as a part of a larger meal or serving it buffet-style, it could stretch to 6–8 smaller portions.

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated)

• Calories: 310–350

• Protein: 24–26g

• Carbohydrates: 3–5g (mostly from garlic and lemon juice)

• Fat: 22–24g

• Saturated Fat: 12–14g

• Cholesterol: 190–210mg

• Sodium: 400–500mg (depending on added salt and butter used)

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

There’s something so satisfying about a recipe that delivers big flavor with almost no work. This Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp is a weeknight hero: minimal prep, one baking sheet, and a handful of pantry ingredients. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, and the result is downright restaurant-worthy. Let’s walk through each part so you can nail it the first time and every time after that.

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Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

First, gather everything you need. Shrimp cook quickly, so you’ll want your ingredients ready to go before they hit the oven.

You’ll need:

• 1½ lbs medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

🧄 Garlic tip: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-minced in a jar works in a pinch, but the real stuff adds a depth that bottled can’t touch.

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Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

• If you want extra browning, skip the parchment and use a lightly greased pan.

💡 Sheet pan size: A large rimmed baking sheet (around 13×18 inches) works best so the shrimp don’t overlap. Crowding can cause them to steam instead of roast.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

This is the flavor bomb that gives this dish its punch.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Stir until everything is well mixed and fragrant.

🍋 Lemon tip: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bottled juice can taste flat or overly acidic.

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Step 4: Toss the Shrimp

Now let’s coat the shrimp in all that buttery goodness.

Instructions:

1. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp directly on the prepared baking sheet.

2. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the shrimp.

3. Use tongs or clean hands to toss the shrimp until they’re fully coated.

4. Spread them out in a single layer, making sure none are overlapping.

🦐 Shrimp size tip: Medium to large shrimp work best—about 21–25 per pound. They cook quickly but are meaty enough to hold their texture.

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Step 5: Bake

Now let the oven do its magic.

Instructions:

1. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes.

2. Keep an eye on them around the 8-minute mark. Shrimp are done when they’re opaque, pink, and just curled into a “C” shape.

3. Avoid overcooking—they go from perfect to rubbery fast.

🔥 Optional boost: For extra color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning the garlic.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

As soon as the shrimp come out of the oven, garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

• Serve hot, right off the pan, with lemon wedges on the side.

• Don’t forget to drizzle any remaining butter-garlic sauce from the pan over the shrimp when serving. It’s liquid gold.

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🍽️ How to Serve Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp

This dish is so versatile—it can go from casual dinner to elegant entrée just based on how you plate it. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting guests, here’s how to serve it beautifully.

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For Weeknight Dinners

• Serve over steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up the buttery sauce.

• Pair with garlicky sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus for a full plate.

• Add a side of buttered noodles or angel hair pasta for a shrimp scampi vibe.

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For Fancy Nights In

• Plate the shrimp over a bed of lemon risotto or herbed couscous.

• Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze or a swirl of garlic aioli for upscale presentation.

• Serve with crusty artisan bread to scoop up every drop of sauce.

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For a Shrimp Bar or Appetizer Spread

• Serve shrimp on skewers with lemon wedges for a pass-around appetizer.

• Set up a shrimp toast bar with sourdough crostini, garlic butter, and aioli.

• Offer a side of spicy cocktail sauce or chimichurri for dipping.

🧺 Outdoor tip: This recipe travels well! Just reheat gently and keep warm in a covered tray. Great for potlucks or backyard parties.

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🧂 Pairing Suggestions

This buttery, garlicky shrimp is bold, savory, and zesty—so you want sides and drinks that complement or contrast it without overpowering. Here’s how to build a full meal around it.

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Carbs & Grains

• Garlic mashed potatoes – creamy and comforting.

• Cilantro lime rice – bright and fresh to offset the richness.

• Orzo pasta tossed with olive oil and roasted tomatoes.

• Crusty bread or flatbread to mop up the garlic butter (don’t skip this!).

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Veggies & Sides

• Roasted broccoli or zucchini ribbons with lemon zest.

• Grilled corn on the cob with chili-lime butter.

• Simple green salad with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and cherry tomatoes.

• Caprese salad for something light, fresh, and vibrant.

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Drinks (Non-Alcoholic)

• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber slices.

• Iced hibiscus tea or mint tea—refreshing and tart.

• Homemade lemonade with a sprig of rosemary or thyme.

💡 Want a summery menu? Pair this shrimp with peach iced tea, a spinach-strawberry salad, and end with strawberry tea sandwiches or fruit sorbet!

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❄️ Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Shrimp is delicate, but with a few easy tips, you can store leftovers and even use this dish for meal prep.

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🌡️ Storing in the Fridge

• Let shrimp cool to room temperature before storing.

• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

• Store with the pan sauce if possible—it helps keep the shrimp moist.

🍋 Tip: Add a fresh squeeze of lemon when reheating to brighten up the flavor.

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❄️ Freezing Instructions

Shrimp freezes surprisingly well—just make sure they’re not overcooked beforehand.

To freeze:

1. Arrange cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.

2. Freeze until firm (about 1 hour), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

3. Store for up to 2 months.

To thaw:

• Thaw in the fridge overnight or place the sealed bag in a bowl of cold water for 20–30 minutes.

🧈 Freezer-friendly bonus: Freeze leftover garlic butter sauce in an ice cube tray. Use later to sauté veggies or toss into pasta.

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♨️ Reheating Tips

The goal is to reheat gently to avoid rubbery shrimp.

Stovetop Method:

1. Heat a nonstick pan over low-medium heat.

2. Add shrimp with some of the leftover sauce or a splash of butter.

3. Cover and reheat for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.

2. Place shrimp in a small baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 10 minutes.

Microwave Method (last resort):

• Use low power and short intervals (20–30 seconds), stirring once halfway through.

💡 Leftover idea: Toss reheated shrimp with cooked pasta, a handful of spinach, and a little extra lemon for a quick shrimp pasta bowl.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a recipe this simple, there are a few sneaky mistakes that can keep your garlic butter shrimp from reaching full weeknight dinner glory. Here’s how to avoid the most common slip-ups and ensure your shrimp come out juicy, buttery, and absolutely irresistible every time.

1. Using shrimp that aren’t properly thawed

If you’re starting with frozen shrimp (which is totally fine!), make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before you toss them in the butter. Excess water can dilute the sauce and make the shrimp steam instead of roast, leaving you with a rubbery texture.

2. Overbaking the shrimp

Shrimp cook fast. Like, lightning fast. Leaving them in the oven too long is the #1 way to end up with dry, tough shrimp. Keep a close eye after 8 minutes—they should be pink, opaque, and just curled into a “C” shape. Any tighter, and they’re overdone.

3. Crowding the pan

Even though it’s tempting to squeeze everything onto one sheet pan, crowded shrimp won’t roast—they’ll steam. Spread them out in a single, even layer to get that slightly golden, roasted finish that takes this dish to the next level.

4. Using pre-cooked shrimp

This one’s a biggie. Pre-cooked shrimp will get rubbery if baked again. Always use raw shrimp for this recipe. If you’re short on time, buy them peeled and deveined to make prep even quicker.

5. Forgetting to season properly

Butter and garlic are magic, yes—but a pinch of salt and pepper really ties it all together. Don’t skip the seasoning step! And taste your butter mixture before tossing—just to make sure it’s got that garlicky zing you love.

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🌟 Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp

You’re already winning with a one-pan, 25-minute recipe—but these expert tips will help you get the absolute best results every single time. Let’s turn that simple dinner into something you’ll crave all week.

1. Use high-quality butter

Since butter is the base of the sauce, it’s worth using the good stuff. European-style butter (like Kerrygold) has a higher fat content and richer flavor, which gives the sauce more depth and makes the shrimp taste restaurant-level amazing.

2. Add a touch of zest

While the lemon juice brightens the dish, adding a little lemon zest takes it up a notch. It gives a fresh, fragrant citrus lift without adding more liquid—perfect if you love a tangy edge.

3. Don’t skimp on the garlic

This recipe calls for 4 cloves, but if you’re a garlic lover, go wild. Just finely mince it or use a garlic press so it distributes evenly in the butter mixture and doesn’t burn in the oven.

4. Customize the heat

Want a little kick? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the butter mix before tossing it with the shrimp. It’s a small addition with big flavor payoff.

5. Serve over something that soaks up sauce

This garlic butter is liquid gold—don’t let it go to waste! Serve your shrimp over jasmine rice, buttery noodles, quinoa, or crusty bread. Even roasted cauliflower rice works great for a low-carb option.

6. Use parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup

Even though it’s a one-pan meal, lining your baking sheet with parchment or foil makes cleanup a total breeze—especially when you’ve got buttery sauce happening.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You’ve got questions—we’ve got shrimp. Let’s cover everything you need to know before whipping up this easy weeknight wonder.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, totally! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before baking. Wet shrimp = steamed shrimp, and we want them roasted and juicy.

What size shrimp should I use?

Medium (41–50 per pound) or large (31–40 per pound) shrimp work best for sheet pan cooking. They’re big enough to stay juicy, but still quick to cook. Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined to save time and hassle.

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

You sure can! Just keep in mind cooking times. Veggies like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or thin green beans work well because they cook quickly. Toss them in olive oil and season separately, then bake alongside the shrimp.

How long will leftovers keep?

Leftover shrimp can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in 20-second bursts to avoid overcooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just make sure to use two sheet pans to avoid overcrowding. Give the shrimp plenty of space so they roast evenly.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! This is a great base protein for weekly meals. Toss it into salads, wraps, grain bowls, or pasta. Just keep the shrimp separate from delicate ingredients (like greens) until you’re ready to eat.

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🦐 Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s just something magical about a meal that tastes like you fussed all day—but only takes 25 minutes and one pan. This Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is that magic. It’s bold, buttery, garlicky, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re serving it with rice and veggies for a weeknight dinner or piling it onto a crusty baguette for a cozy shrimp sandwich, it delivers flavor in every bite.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just shrimp, butter, garlic, and a hot oven. And it’s endlessly customizable. Craving heat? Add red pepper flakes. Want a Mediterranean vibe? Toss in a few olives and capers. The base is strong enough to support whatever twist you’re in the mood for.

This is one of those recipes that can easily become part of your regular rotation. It’s fast enough for a Tuesday but tasty enough for company. And it reheats like a dream, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

So here’s your official nudge: grab a bag of shrimp on your next grocery run and give this a try. You might just discover your new go-to dinner.

👉 Let’s make it happen!

If you whip this up, be sure to tag @DamnDelicious and show off your garlic butter shrimp masterpiece. Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or straight out of the pan (no judgment here), I know it’s going to be delicious.

Ready to turn five ingredients into dinner greatness? Preheat that oven and let’s get cooking.

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