Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this oven baked shrimp will become a favorite.
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Only 3 ingredients. Shrimp, oil, seasoning.
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No pre-cooking. Frozen shrimp go straight into the oven.
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One pan. Minimal cleanup.
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Ready in under 15 minutes.
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Flavorful and tender. Perfectly cooked every time.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves shrimp.
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Healthy. Low-carb, high-protein, and delicious.
Ingredients
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1 pound frozen raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 to 2 tablespoons seasoning blend (Cajun, garlic herb, lemon pepper, or your choice)
Ingredient Notes
Frozen raw shrimp: Use frozen raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Do not thaw them completely before baking. You can cook them from frozen. Look for medium or large shrimp.
Olive oil: Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere and promotes even baking. Avocado oil or melted butter can be substituted.
Seasoning blend: Use your favorite seasoning. Cajun, garlic herb, lemon pepper, or Old Bay all work well. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Rinse the frozen shrimp under cold water to remove any ice crystals. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the olive oil and seasoning blend until evenly coated.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching. This ensures even cooking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. The shrimp are ready when they are pink, opaque, and curled into a loose C shape. Do not overcook. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
How to Serve Oven Baked Shrimp
This flavorful shrimp is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Rice: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
With Pasta: Toss with cooked pasta and a little olive oil or butter.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini.
On a Salad: Top a green salad with warm shrimp.
In Tacos: Serve in warm tortillas with slaw and salsa.
With Cocktail Sauce: Serve with cocktail sauce for dipping.
Variations & Tips
Make It Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
Make It Lemon Pepper: Use lemon pepper seasoning for a bright, tangy flavor.
Make It Garlic Herb: Use garlic powder, dried herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Make It with Butter: Substitute melted butter for the olive oil.
Make It with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh parsley, thyme, or dill.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Make It in an Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F for 6 to 8 minutes.
Make It on the Stove: Sauté in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly. Check at 8 minutes.
Pat the shrimp dry. This helps the seasoning stick.
Arrange in a single layer. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting.
Use a seasoning blend you enjoy. The seasoning is the flavor.
Serve immediately. Shrimp are best hot from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh shrimp?
Yes. Fresh shrimp can be used. Reduce the bake time to 6 to 8 minutes.
Can I use frozen cooked shrimp?
Yes. Reduce the bake time to 5 to 7 minutes. They only need to be heated through.
Can I use a different oil?
Yes. Avocado oil or melted butter can be substituted.
Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Yes. Add asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini. Adjust the bake time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best fresh. Leftovers can be eaten cold or reheated gently.
Can I freeze cooked shrimp?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Why are my shrimp rubbery?
You overcooked them. Check at 8 minutes. Remove them from the oven immediately.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Yes. Any seasoning blend works.
Can I broil the shrimp?
Yes. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes for a charred finish.
The Beauty of Simple Seafood
There is something universally appealing about shrimp. They are quick to cook. They are versatile. They are delicious. This oven baked shrimp is a celebration of all those things.
Keep frozen shrimp in your freezer. Keep olive oil in your pantry. Keep your favorite seasoning in your spice rack. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings