This Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp is a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors. The shrimp are coated in brown sugar and lime, giving them a yummy glaze!
I love how easy this dish is to make. Just mix, bake, and you have a tasty meal in no time! Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, but you can also use medium shrimp if that’s what you have. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, chicken pieces or firm tofu can work as tasty substitutes.
Brown Sugar: This adds a wonderful sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used as alternatives, but the flavor might change slightly.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime is key for that tangy flavor! In a pinch, bottled lime juice will do. Another option is lemon juice if limes aren’t available, but it will give a different taste.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work. You can even use a pinch of cayenne if you want some heat!
How Do You Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is crucial, and it’s easier than you think! The key is to not overcook them. Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so the shrimp cooks evenly.
- Keep an eye on time. Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes, just until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp as soon as they’re done to avoid them turning rubbery.
Trust me, this method will give you juicy and flavorful shrimp every time. Enjoy your meal!
Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes to bake, making it a total of 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lovely appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important for making sure your shrimp cook evenly and get that nice caramelization.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, lime zest, lime juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth and fragrant glaze. This is where the magic happens!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Now, add your shrimp to the bowl. Toss them gently until they are all nicely coated in that delicious brown sugar lime mixture. You want every shrimp to glisten with flavor!
4. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Take a baking dish and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the top. This helps with browning and adds extra flavor.
5. Bake the Shrimp:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when they turn pink and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your shrimp.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your brown sugar lime baked shrimp immediately with lime wedges on the side. The extra squeeze of lime juice adds just the right zing!
Enjoy this sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky dish as an appetizer or a main course. Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. A quick method is to place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before coating with the glaze.
Can I Substitute Brown Sugar with Something Else?
Absolutely! You can use coconut sugar or honey as a substitute for brown sugar. Keep in mind that honey will change the texture slightly, so you may want to adjust the quantity used to avoid overly sweet results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it as a flavorful appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating! Add extra lime wedges for a zesty touch.