If you’re craving a quick and delectable seafood treat that doesn’t require standing over a hot pan, you’ve got to try this Easy Baked Butterfly Shrimp Recipe. It’s an effortless way to enjoy crispy, flavorful shrimp with a perfectly golden crust, all achieved in the oven. The recipe transforms simple shrimp into a mouthwatering dish that feels elegant but is genuinely friendly enough for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Trust me, once you taste this, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to seafood classics.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each component plays an important role—from the crunchy breadcrumbs giving a satisfying texture, to the spices that bring warmth and flavor, and finally the shrimp, which is the star of the show. Here’s what you’ll need to make magic happen in your kitchen:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The foundation of the dish, offering tender, juicy seafood flavor.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular): For that irresistible crispy crunch that bakes up beautifully.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick to the shrimp for perfect coverage.
- 2 large eggs: Act as the glue, binding the flour and breadcrumbs onto the shrimp.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory punch that complements the shrimp wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a gentle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish effortlessly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of kick.
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling: Ensures a golden, crispy finish without frying.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color when serving.
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional): Provide a bright, zesty contrast that balances the rich shrimp.
How to Make Easy Baked Butterfly Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key to getting the shrimp cooked just right—juicy on the inside with a perfectly crisp crust outside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, which makes cleanup so much easier and keeps the shrimp from sticking.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Creating an organized breading station makes the process smooth and mess-free. Use three shallow bowls or plates: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and a third with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This classic dredging method is what gives the shrimp their signature golden crunch.
Step 3: Butterfly the Shrimp
Butterflying shrimp means slicing them along the back lengthwise without cutting through completely, so they open up like a butterfly’s wings. This technique ensures the shrimp cook evenly and gives you more surface area for that delicious breadcrumb coating. If your shrimp aren’t pre-butterflied, this step is key!
Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
Start by dipping each shrimp in the flour, shaking off the excess, then into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip away. Finally, coat the shrimp thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mix. Place them on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded to allow even crisping.
Step 5: Add Oil for Crispness
Lightly spray the coated shrimp with cooking spray or drizzle a bit of olive oil over them. This step might seem small, but it’s essential—it helps the breadcrumbs to brown beautifully and get that satisfying crunch without frying.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the shrimp into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque inside and achieve a golden brown on the breadcrumb coating. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley on top if desired for a touch of color and herbaceous brightness. Serve the shrimp with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over just before eating, adding a fresh citrus zing that elevates every bite. Now you have a plate that’s irresistible in flavor and presentation!
How to Serve Easy Baked Butterfly Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that brightens up the dish and adds a subtle herbal note. Lemon wedges aren’t just for decoration—they provide a fresh and zesty burst that perfectly balances the crispy, savory shrimp. These simple touches transform the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, pair with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple rice pilaf. Crispy asparagus or a fresh cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the shrimp’s crunchy texture beautifully. Potato wedges or classic coleslaw also work wonderfully if you want something heartier.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by serving the shrimp on a bed of mixed greens or alongside a colorful salsa or avocado dip. For a party, arrange them on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces like spicy aioli, cocktail sauce, or garlic butter. The easy presentation makes it a versatile option for casual snacks or elegant appetizers alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have some shrimp left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain their texture and flavor. Just be sure to keep them from any excess moisture, which can soften the breading.
Freezing
You can freeze baked butterfly shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, they won’t stick together and can be kept for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back the crispy texture, reheat leftovers in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible since it can make the birds soggy. Reheating in the oven helps maintain that golden crunch we all love about this Easy Baked Butterfly Shrimp Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before breading so the coating sticks well and the shrimp bake evenly.
What type of breadcrumbs works best?
Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for a light, airy crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work perfectly fine if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers can create a similar crispy texture.
How do I avoid shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Keep baking time just between 15-20 minutes and don’t overbake. Shrimp cook fast and become rubbery when overdone, so watch them closely toward the end.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The crunchy texture and mild flavors usually appeal to kids. You can even serve with their favorite dipping sauce for extra fun.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Butterfly Shrimp Recipe is a delightful dish that’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to something special on a busy night, this recipe has got your back. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love the balance of crispy texture and juicy shrimp with every bite.
Print
Easy Baked Butterfly Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Easy Baked Butterfly Shrimp is a simple and delicious recipe featuring large shrimp coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, baked to golden perfection for a crispy, healthy appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Breading
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Finishing
- Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Breading Station: In three shallow bowls, place the flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl.
- Butterfly the Shrimp: Carefully slice along the back of each shrimp without cutting all the way through to create a butterfly shape, helping them cook evenly.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp in the flour first, shake off excess, then coat in beaten egg letting excess drip off, and finally dredge in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Lay coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet.
- Apply Oil: Lightly spray the coated shrimp with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp and brown during baking.
- Bake the Shrimp: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until shrimp are pink, opaque, and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove shrimp from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fully deveined and peeled for best texture.
- If shrimp are not large, adjust baking time accordingly.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Butterflying the shrimp allows for more even cooking and better presentation.
- Try serving with a dipping sauce like cocktail or garlic aioli.
