Perfectly Baked Colossal Shrimp: An Easy Garlic Butter Recipe for Juicy Results
Prepare to impress with this incredibly easy baked colossal shrimp recipe, designed for maximum flavor and minimal effort. In just 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll create perfectly juicy, plump shrimp basted in a delectable garlic butter and seasoned with a homemade blend. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a luxurious weeknight meal, these magnificent shrimp deliver on taste and presentation without the fuss.
Why This Easy Baked Colossal Shrimp Recipe Is a Must-Try
There’s a reason this colossal shrimp recipe stands out as a true crowd-pleaser and a weeknight savior. First, colossal shrimp, as their name suggests, are impressively large, offering a satisfying, meaty bite that’s far more substantial than your average shrimp. This makes them not only a fantastic appetizer that makes an impact but also a hearty main course.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. Baking the shrimp means less hands-on time compared to pan-frying or grilling, resulting in an even cook and perfectly tender texture every time. The dry heat of the oven, combined with the shell-on preparation and the judicious use of a wire rack, helps prevent the shrimp from steaming, ensuring they develop a delicate crust while remaining succulent inside. Plus, using only a handful of readily available ingredients ensures a stress-free cooking experience, perfect for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings. Our carefully balanced homemade shrimp seasoning infuses the shrimp with an incredible depth of flavor, perfectly complemented by the rich, aromatic garlic butter. This combination creates a succulent, flavorful shrimp that truly melts in your mouth, making it an instant favorite. You simply can’t go wrong with such a delicious, quick, and easy preparation method!
Key Ingredients You Will Need for Garlic Butter Colossal Shrimp
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. You’ll find a complete list of measurements, specific ingredients, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the end of this post. For now, let’s take a closer look at the star components that make this recipe shine, ensuring you have everything you need for a fantastic meal.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitution Suggestions
Understanding your ingredients is key to achieving perfect results. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and how you can adapt the recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand.
SHRIMP – This recipe specifically calls for colossal shrimp, ideally with the shell on. Colossal shrimp are generally U/8, U/10, or U/12 count per pound (meaning under 8, 10, or 12 shrimp per pound), offering that impressive size and satisfying texture. Keeping the shell on during baking helps to retain moisture, resulting in incredibly juicy and flavorful meat. The shell also acts as a natural barrier, preventing the delicate shrimp meat from drying out and infusing it with extra flavor from the butter and seasoning. If colossal shrimp aren’t available, you can certainly use large or jumbo shrimp, such as Black Tiger shrimp. Just be sure to reduce your baking time to 8-10 minutes to prevent overcooking, as smaller shrimp cook much faster. Always make sure your shrimp are fresh or properly thawed if frozen, and thoroughly rinsed and patted dry before use.
SEASONING – The heart of this recipe’s flavor comes from our homemade shrimp seasoning blend. This custom mix is designed to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp with a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and a hint of spice. It often includes ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and a touch of cayenne pepper for warmth. While we highly recommend making your own for the freshest and most vibrant taste, you can absolutely substitute with your favorite store-bought shrimp or seafood seasoning. Popular options like Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, or a simple blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne would work wonderfully, each adding its unique twist. Experiment to find your preferred flavor profile!
BUTTER & GARLIC – The classic combination of rich salted butter and fragrant minced garlic creates a decadent basting mixture that coats every piece of shrimp with irresistible aroma and flavor. Butter adds moisture, richness, and a silky texture to the cooked shrimp, while fresh garlic provides a pungent, savory kick that pairs exquisitely with seafood. Ensure your butter is well-softened (at room temperature) for easy mixing and brushing, as cold butter will be difficult to work with. If fresh garlic isn’t an option, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used per tablespoon of minced fresh garlic, though fresh is always preferred for this recipe’s robust, authentic flavor profile.
OLIVE OIL – A small amount of olive oil is used to help the homemade seasoning blend adhere beautifully to the shrimp, creating a flavorful crust. It also contributes to a lovely golden finish during baking. Extra virgin olive oil will add a subtle fruity note, but any neutral-flavored oil, like avocado oil or a light vegetable oil, could be used as an effective substitute.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Perfect Baked Colossal Shrimp
Creating these sensational colossal shrimp is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfectly cooked, flavorful shrimp every time. The step-by-step photos and instructions below are here to guide you visually through each part of the process. For a convenient printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- Preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for quick and even cooking. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. Using a wire rack is crucial as it allows hot air to circulate evenly around the shrimp, promoting better browning and preventing them from steaming, which can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Rinse the colossal shrimp thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Then, pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step is essential to ensure the seasoning adheres well to the shrimp meat and the shrimp develop a beautiful sear rather than steaming in excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, combine your homemade shrimp seasoning and the olive oil. Mix them well until a thick, uniform paste forms. This paste will deliver maximum flavor directly onto the shrimp meat.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the softened salted butter and the minced garlic. Stir them together until well incorporated and aromatic. This fragrant garlic butter will be brushed over the shrimp just before baking, adding richness, moisture, and a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Carefully separate the shrimp meat from its shell. You want to gently pry the meat away from the inside of the shell, creating a pocket, without completely detaching the shell. Leave the tail on if preferred for presentation and easy handling. This technique allows the seasoning to penetrate directly into the meat while the shell protects it from drying out during baking.
- Take a generous amount of the seasoning mixture and rub it evenly all over the exposed shrimp meat. Ensure every crevice is coated for maximum flavor. Once seasoned, gently return the seasoned meat back into its shell. Repeat this process for all of your colossal shrimp. This ensures a deep, rich flavor in every bite.
- Now, using a pastry brush, generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the entire exterior of each shrimp, including the shell. This layer of butter will baste the shrimp as it bakes, keeping it moist, adding a beautiful golden color, and releasing an incredible aroma throughout your kitchen. Repeat for all shrimp.
- Arrange all the prepared colossal shrimp in a single layer onto the wire rack on your baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching or overcrowded, as this will hinder even cooking and browning. Leave a little space between each shrimp for optimal air circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for exactly 15 minutes. Colossal shrimp cook relatively quickly, and 15 minutes is usually perfect for achieving that juicy, tender texture without drying them out. The shrimp should turn opaque and pink when fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of about 120°F (49°C). Avoid overbaking to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Shrimp
To help you master this baked colossal shrimp recipe and ensure delicious results every time, here are some common questions and expert tips.
While colossal shrimp are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For optimal taste and texture, try to consume them as soon as possible.
To reheat colossal shrimp without sacrificing their tender texture, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Reheat in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for approximately 10 minutes, or until just warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can quickly lead to tough, rubbery shrimp. You can also quickly sauté them in a pan with a touch of butter or olive oil for a minute or two.
Absolutely! Most colossal shrimp available in stores are sold frozen, so it’s perfectly fine to use them. The most crucial step is to thaw them completely before you begin the recipe. Thawing ensures that the seasoning rub will adhere properly and cook evenly, preventing excess water from steaming the shrimp instead of baking them. To thaw, you can place them in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method: put them in a colander under cold running water for 10-15 minutes until pliable. Always pat them thoroughly dry before seasoning.
Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and pink, curling into a loose ‘C’ shape. If they form a tight ‘O’ shape, they are likely overcooked. For colossal shrimp, 15 minutes in a 400°F (200°C) oven is typically sufficient, but visual cues are key. A good indicator is when the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) for a tender and juicy result. Don’t rely solely on time; keep a close eye on them!
Deveining shrimp is a matter of preference. The “vein” is actually the shrimp’s digestive tract, and while harmless to eat, it can sometimes contain grit or a slightly unpleasant appearance. For colossal shrimp, especially if serving guests or for a more refined presentation, many prefer to devein. You can easily do this by making a shallow slit along the back of the shrimp (where the dark line is) with a small paring knife and then rinsing out the vein under cold water. If the vein is light or clear, it’s often skipped by home cooks.
You can certainly prep some components in advance. The homemade seasoning blend can be made days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The garlic butter mixture can also be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated; just allow it to soften at room temperature before brushing. However, it’s best to season and baste the shrimp just before baking. Shrimp seasoned too far in advance can sometimes become a bit mushy due to the salt drawing out moisture, and they might absorb too much seasoning.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Baked Colossal Shrimp
These majestic colossal shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be the star of various meals. Their impressive size and rich flavor make them perfect as an elegant appetizer, or substantial enough to anchor a main course. Here are some ideas to complete your dining experience:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them hot with fresh lemon wedges, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, and a side of classic cocktail sauce, a zesty remoulade, or a creamy garlic aioli for dipping. They are also wonderful simply with melted butter for dipping.
- With Rice Dishes: They pair beautifully with a variety of rice preparations. Consider Cajun rice for a spicy kick, simple buttered white or brown rice to let the shrimp shine, or an aromatic rice pilaf with herbs. Lemon-herb rice, coconut rice, or even a flavorful risotto would also be fantastic accompaniments.
- Pasta Perfection: Toss the baked shrimp with your favorite pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well), a light lemon-garlic butter sauce, and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a quick and satisfying pasta dish. Or add them to a creamy Alfredo or a vibrant tomato-based sauce for an indulgent meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a complete and healthy meal, you can easily bake complementary vegetables like bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), red onions, asparagus spears, or cherry tomatoes on the same pan as the colossal shrimp. Just add them halfway through the shrimp’s cooking time or roast them separately until tender-crisp.
- Crisp Salads: Fluff the succulent shrimp onto a bed of fresh greens, such as mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, for a vibrant and light main course salad. A simple vinaigrette, a creamy Caesar dressing, or a light lemon-herb dressing would complement the flavors beautifully.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t forget some warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up all that incredible garlic butter sauce left in the pan! It’s too delicious to waste.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these baked colossal shrimp are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture!
Discover More Delicious Shrimp Recipes
If you love shrimp as much as we do, you’re in luck! There are countless ways to enjoy this versatile seafood, offering a range of flavors and cooking methods suitable for any occasion. Once you’ve mastered this incredibly easy baked colossal shrimp recipe, be sure to explore some of our other fantastic shrimp dishes that promise equally delicious results:
- Shrimp Fajitas: Sizzling and flavorful, loaded with vibrant peppers and onions, perfect for a fun, interactive family dinner or a festive gathering.
- Shrimp Kabobs: Ideal for grilling, these skewers combine tender shrimp with colorful vegetables, making them great for outdoor entertaining or a healthy meal.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: A timeless classic that’s quick, simple, and universally loved. This recipe highlights the rich flavors of garlic and butter for a truly satisfying dish.
- Blackened Shrimp: For those who enjoy a bold, spicy, and smoky flavor profile, this recipe offers a delicious kick, perfect with rice or in tacos.
- Breaded Shrimp: Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside – a true comfort food that’s perfect for dipping and appeals to all ages.
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Colossal Shrimp
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 colossal shrimp shell on
- 2 Tablespoons shrimp seasoning
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 3 Tablespoons salted butter well softened
Things You’ll Need
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Baking sheet
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Wire cooling rack
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Mixing bowls
Before You Begin
- This recipe calls for colossal shrimp, with the shell on. You can use jumbo shrimp such as Black Tiger shrimp, just cut the time down to 8-10 minutes.
- Most colossal shrimp you will find will be frozen, so it’s perfectly fine to use frozen shrimp – however, you definitely want to let them thaw before you begin. That way the seasoning rub won’t slide right off when baking.
- We are using our homemade shrimp seasoning which adds tons of flavor. However, you can substitute with store-bought seasoning or your favorite blend.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
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Rinse shrimp and pat dry.
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In a small bowl, combine shrimp seasoning and olive oil.
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In another small bowl, combine butter and garlic.
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Gently separate the shrimp meat from its shell without detaching the shell.
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Rub the seasoning mixture all over the shrimp meat. Return meat to the shell. Repeat for all shrimp.
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Brush the butter mixture over the entire shrimp. Repeat for all shrimp.
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Place all prepared shrimp onto wire rack over baking sheet.
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Bake for 15 minutes.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Colossal shrimp are best enjoyed right away, but you can keep any leftovers you have in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven set to 300F. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer and cover with aluminum foil. Bake until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Don’t leave them in for too long or you might overcook them!
- Don’t Overcook: The most common mistake with shrimp is overcooking. Shrimp cook very quickly, turning pink and opaque in just a few minutes. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Stick to the recommended baking time of 15 minutes for colossal shrimp and always keep an eye on them for visual cues of doneness.
- Use a Wire Rack: Baking shrimp on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet is essential. This allows hot air to circulate evenly around each shrimp, promoting better browning and preventing them from sitting in their own juices, which could lead to steaming.
- Proper Thawing is Key: If using frozen shrimp, always ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning adhere better and prevents excess water from steaming the shrimp instead of baking them.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer with some space between each piece. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oven temperature around the shrimp and lead to uneven cooking, resulting in steamed rather than beautifully baked shrimp.
- Lemon is Your Friend: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the hot, baked shrimp right before serving brightens all the flavors and adds a zesty, fresh finish that complements the rich garlic butter perfectly.
Nutrition
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.