Crispy Baked Shrimp Recipe

Crispy Baked Shrimp Recipe

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I have always loved shrimp. The juicy, tender meat combined with a crispy coating makes my taste buds dance. When I first tried my hand at making a crispy baked shrimp recipe, I was excited to create something that would not only taste great but also be easy to prepare. Over the years, I have perfected this recipe, and I can confidently say that it is a hit with family and friends alike.

Why Choose Crispy Baked Shrimp Recipe?

Baked shrimp is a fantastic option for those who want a healthier alternative to fried shrimp. Baking allows the shrimp to cook evenly while keeping them juicy. Plus, using a crispy coating adds texture without the added oil of frying.

I remember the first time I served baked shrimp at a gathering. Everyone was surprised at how delicious they were, and I felt proud to have made something so tasty without all the extra grease.

Ingredients for Crispy Baked Shrimp Recipe

To make this recipe, you will need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

Shrimp Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Dipping Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Crispy Baked Shrimp

Preparing the shrimp is simple and quick. Here’s how I do it:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly.
  2. Set Up Your Breading Station: I like to set up three bowls for the breading process. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs. In the third bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Coat the Shrimp: Take each shrimp and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg, and finally, coat it in the Panko mixture. This three-step process gives the shrimp an amazing crispy texture.
  4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they are not touching.
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Baking the Shrimp

Now that the shrimp are ready, it’s time to bake them. Here’s how I do it:

  1. Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them. This helps achieve that golden-brown color.
  2. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The shrimp should be pink and opaque when done.
  3. Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want an extra crispy finish, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Making the Dipping Sauce

While the shrimp are baking, I like to whip up a quick dipping sauce. It adds an extra layer of flavor and complements the shrimp perfectly. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  2. Taste and Adjust: I always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes I add a little more lemon juice for a tangy kick.
  3. Chill: Let the sauce chill in the refrigerator until the shrimp are ready. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Serving Ideas for Crispy Baked Shrimp

Once the shrimp are done baking, it’s time to serve them up. Here’s how I like to present them:

  1. Plate It Up: Arrange the crispy baked shrimp on a serving platter. The golden color is so inviting!
  2. Add the Dipping Sauce: Place the dipping sauce in a small bowl in the center of the platter for easy access.
  3. Garnish: I often sprinkle some fresh parsley or lemon wedges around the shrimp for a pop of color and freshness.
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Tips

Over the years, I have learned a few tips that make this recipe even better. Here are my favorites:

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will always taste better than frozen. If you can, buy shrimp from a local fish market.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each shrimp space to cook evenly. If they are too close together, they may steam instead of bake.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different spices to the Panko mixture. I sometimes add Italian seasoning or even some grated Parmesan cheese for a twist.
  • Serve with Sides: Pair the shrimp with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storing Leftover Shrimp

If you have any leftovers, storing them properly is important. Here’s how I do it:

  1. Cool Down: Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing.
  2. Use an Airtight Container: Place the shrimp in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 2 days.
  3. Reheat: When ready to eat, reheat the shrimp in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for one serving of crispy baked shrimp:

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g

Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Shrimp Recipe

Crispy baked shrimp has become a staple in my home. It’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never disappoints.

I love how versatile it is. You can serve it as an appetizer, a main dish, or even toss it in a salad. Each bite is bursting with flavor and crunch, making it a delightful experience.

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