Easy Baked Shrimp
Juicy, flavorful baked shrimp topped with cheesy tidbits and crispy crumbs, perfect for a quick appetizer or light meal. The buttery, garlicky coating enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a crowd-pleaser for seafood lovers and easy to prepare for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and devein the shrimp.
- Leave the tail on and butterfly the shrimp.
- Sprinkle Cheese Tid-Bits generously on the shrimp and dot with melted butter.
- Add pepper and garlic powder to taste.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider substituting the Cheese Tid-Bits with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika. Make sure to butterfly the shrimp evenly for a better cooking experience. If using smaller shrimp, adjust the baking time accordingly to prevent overcooking. This dish is great for quick weeknight dinners or as part of a seafood recipes spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked shrimp as a delightful appetizer or main dish, accompanied by a fresh salad or garlic bread. It pairs beautifully with Crab Rangoon Spread And Won Ton Crackers for a seafood-themed gathering. A glass of white wine or a light beer complements the dish perfectly, enhancing the flavors of the shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-10 minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Baked Shrimp contains roughly 706 calories, with 31g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (165% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1461mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the dish. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quicker method. Just be mindful to pat them dry before baking to ensure the coating adheres well.
What if I don’t have crushed crumbs?
If you don't have crushed crumbs, you can make your own by processing stale bread or crackers in a food processor. Alternatively, finely crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs work as great substitutes, adding a nice crunch to the baked shrimp.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for about 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving can elevate the dish. Experimenting with different spices or cheese types can also create exciting variations.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).