This Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp is a tasty treat! The shrimp get a sweet and tangy glaze that makes them finger-licking good. It’s quick to make and perfect for dinner!
I love serving this dish with rice or a fresh salad. Trust me, the kids will be fighting for the last shrimp! 🦐 Just pop them in the oven, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: I like using large shrimp for this recipe because they hold up well and stay juicy. If you’re on a budget, medium shrimp work too. For a twist, you could use scallops or chicken if shrimp isn’t available.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a rich sweetness. If you’re out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or honey for a similar effect. For a low-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice makes a big difference in flavor. If you only have bottled juice, it’s okay, but fresh is always best. You can swap lime for lemon if you prefer a different zing.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice touch, but regular paprika works too if that’s what you have. If you love heat, feel free to add more cayenne or even some chili powder for an extra kick!
How Can I Bake Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking Them?
Baking shrimp perfectly requires attention to time and temperature. Here are some key steps to help you do just that:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to avoid uneven cooking.
- Cook the shrimp at high heat (400°F) for a short time (8-10 minutes). They cook quickly and are done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Keep an eye on them! They can go from perfectly cooked to overdone very fast.
When done, remove them immediately from the oven to stop the cooking process. Enjoy your meal!
Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 8-10 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to serve up a tasty shrimp dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help your shrimp cook quickly and evenly. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you like a kick), salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is blended into a smooth glaze.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss the shrimp in the marinade so they are evenly coated with that sweet and zesty goodness.
4. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Next, take the coated shrimp and spread them out evenly in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. This helps them cook properly and gets that nice caramelization on each piece!
5. Bake the Shrimp:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—they’re done when they turn opaque and curl slightly. Be careful not to overcook!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the shrimp from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zing!
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor combination!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the frozen shrimp are completely thawed before you start. To thaw shrimp quickly, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they bake nicely.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce in the marinade. For an extra kick, consider including diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. You can also microwave them briefly, but be cautious as shrimp can become rubbery if heated too long.
Can I Prepare the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge in a sealed container. When you’re ready to cook, bring it back to room temperature before adding the shrimp to ensure even coating.