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3-Ingredient Oven Baked Shrimp is a remarkably simple and elegant way to prepare high-quality seafood with minimal effort. As shown in your image, large, succulent shrimp are baked until perfectly pink and opaque, then garnished with fresh lemon slices, zest, and chopped herbs.
3-Ingredient Oven Baked Shrimp
This recipe is designed for maximum efficiency, utilizing the natural sweetness of the shrimp and the brightening power of citrus. It is an ideal protein for busy weeknights or as a sophisticated appetizer for guests.
Why This Recipe Is a Kitchen Essential
- Speed and Convenience: Using frozen raw shrimp allows you to keep the main ingredient on hand for a quick meal that takes less than 15 minutes to cook.
- High Protein, Low Effort: This dish provides a light, nutritious main course without the need for complex sauces or long prep times.
- Exceptional Flavor: The high heat of the oven quickly caramelizes the shrimp’s exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Versatile Serving Options: These shrimp can be served as a standalone main, tossed into pasta, or added to a fresh salad.
Ingredient Notes
- 1 lb Frozen Raw Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined) are best for this method. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
- 2 tbsp Salted Butter or Olive Oil: Melted butter provides a rich, classic “scampi” flavor, while olive oil offers a lighter, Mediterranean finish.
- 1 Large Lemon: You will use both the juice to season the shrimp and the zest (and slices) for the final presentation seen in your photo.
- Optional Seasoning: While the core recipe uses only three ingredients, a sprinkle of black pepper, garlic powder, or fresh parsley adds wonderful depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the thawed shrimp with the melted butter (or oil) and the juice of half a lemon. If you like, add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Arrange: Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet. Tuck fresh lemon slices between the shrimp to infuse more citrus aroma during baking.
- Bake: Roast for 8–10 minutes. The shrimp are done when they are pink, opaque, and have curled into a “C” shape.
- Finish: Remove from the oven and immediately top with fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley for that professional look shown in your image.
Serving Suggestions
- The “Surf and Turf” Menu: Serve these shrimp alongside Slow Cooker Foil Pork Chops and Carrots or 5-Ingredient Oven Chicken Tenders.
- Complementary Sides: These pair beautifully with Slow Cooker 2-Ingredient Creamy Potatoes or a light side of Southern 4-Ingredient Cucumber Sandwiches.
- Pasta Pairing: Toss the finished shrimp and their buttery pan juices with the Slow Cooker Creamy Goat Cheese Chicken Cavatelli for a decadent meal.
- Light Appetizers: Start your meal with Stuffed Celery for a crunchy, fresh contrast to the warm shrimp.

