Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This baked BBQ shrimp recipe is your answer. It's a quick, healthy meal perfect for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Get ready to experience juicy, tender shrimp bathed in a tangy, smoky BBQ sauce – all without spending hours in the kitchen! This recipe is a fantastic example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. It's a surefire addition to your best recipes collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I recommend a thicker variety)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for any easy recipes, ensuring minimal mess.
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Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss gently to coat evenly. Ensure all the shrimp are well-covered in the delicious marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This step significantly enhances the taste, making this one of the best recipes you'll try.
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Bake to Perfection: Arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the sauce is slightly bubbly. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp.
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Garnish & Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and garnish the baked BBQ shrimp with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the top. This dish is perfect as a quick dinner idea or a delicious appetizer.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked BBQ Shrimp:
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Thicker BBQ Sauce is Best: A thicker BBQ sauce will coat the shrimp better and create a more flavorful glaze during baking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
- Add Veggies: For a more complete meal, toss some chopped bell peppers or onions with the shrimp during the marinating stage.
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
- Sweet and Spicy Shrimp: Use a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce for a balanced flavor profile.
- Garlic Shrimp: Add more garlic powder or even some minced fresh garlic to the marinade.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7 grams
This baked BBQ shrimp recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking. It's a simple yet sophisticated dish, proving that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy!